Introduction

Ridhima had always held the conviction that diligence and perseverance would ultimately yield results. With stellar academic achievements, an engineering degree, and a fervent desire to succeed, she stepped into the business world brimming with aspirations and positivity. However, the environment she encountered proved to be much more complicated.

Frequently, she found herself as the sole female voice present, particularly in technology-focused discussions. Her contributions were often overlooked, assigned to others, or outright ignored. When she pursued leadership positions, the feedback she received typically revolved around ambiguous phrases such as “not quite a match” or “too forceful.” Behind the sleek, glass-paneled offices, bias festered quietly yet powerfully.

Coming from a humble background, Ridhima lacked the advantage of established networks or family connections, building her career one brick at a time. There were instances of self-doubt—times when she contemplated giving up, or worse, altering her true self to conform.

She was not merely managing professional tasks; she was also grappling with stereotypes, silence, and institutional frameworks that were not designed for individuals like her.

Shikhandi: The Transgender Warrior of the Mahabharata

At its core, Hindu philosophy imparts a significant truth: every individual is an eternal atman—a soul apart from their physical form. This signifies that beyond categories such as gender, ethnicity, or sexual orientation, every soul is equally divine, worthy of love, respect, and dignity.

However, ethics are seldom straightforward. Even within Hinduism’s profound spiritual teachings, narratives in ancient texts like the Mahabharata illustrate how individuals, despite their good intentions, struggle to embody these ideals—sometimes adhering rigidly to rules at the expense of compassion.

A compelling illustration of this moral dilemma is the tale of Shikhandi, a transgender warrior whose narrative of rejection and retaliation shifted the dynamics of war and redefined the meaning of underestimation.

Amba’s Journey to Becoming Shikhandi

Amba, a princess from Kashi, was taken by Bhishma along with her sisters to become the bride of his sibling, Vichitravirya. However, Amba was in love with another—King Shalva—who subsequently rejected her, deeming her return a disgrace. Bhishma, committed to his vow of celibacy, also declined her hand.

Disregarded and dishonored through no fault of her own, Amba sought retribution. She undertook rigorous penance and received a boon from Lord Shiva, promising that in her next birth, she would bring about Bhishma’s demise.

Reincarnated as Shikhandi, a child of King Drupada, Amba’s metamorphosis—sometimes depicted as transgender—became integral to realizing her destiny.

The Legacy of Shikhandi

Shikhandi’s tale often goes unnoticed, yet it bears significant relevance today. In a society where individuals are still marginalized due to gender or identity, Shikhandi’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that strength and purpose transcends conformity.

Although society attempted to diminish Amba’s significance, she emerged as Shikhandi—not just to reclaim her identity, but to alter the outcome of a conflict. Her life encapsulates the deeper truths of Hindu thought: souls, rather than bodies, determine our worth.

In both the Mahabharata and reality, it is not always the strongest or most accepted who leave an imprint on history. Often, it is those who have been sidelined but choose to rise again, fueled by passion and purpose.

True righteousness is not found in uncritical adherence to tradition, but in recognizing and celebrating the divine potential of every being.

Learnings

Engaging with Shikhandi’s narrative was life-altering for Ridhima. She came to understand that her challenges were not weaknesses but rather testaments to her fortitude.

Ridhima ceased her efforts to conform and began to lead assertively, championing her team and uplifting others like her who often felt invisible. Her journey bestowed her with insight, her struggles cultivated compassion, and her resilience paved the way for her success.

As time passed, she established a name for herself not only based on outcomes but also for her compassionate and honest leadership. She discovered that she didn’t need to transform into someone else to flourish—she just needed to embody a truer version of herself.

The pivotal insight Ridhima gained from Shikhandi’s tale:“Those who are underestimated possess incredible strength—they are often the most crucial players in the game.”