Celebrating Women's day

I wanted to write on women's day about some lady who can inspire. Names were juggling in my mind, but those names were mostly popular ones and many of us knew them already. I always like to introduce some unique personalities particularly those holding low profile. Today THE HINDU has showcased a rare personality of women. I am indeed happy to introduce them to you.

Gomathy Ammal and her daughter Karpagam - make a living — in a male-dominated profession — taking care of the dead.

Gomathy Ammal as a result of poverty entered to the profession to make money knowing well that it unsuits women. People refused to talk to her and ostracised her. "But my focus was on providing for my child," says Gomathy Ammal. In the 20 years she has been on the job, she has arranged more than 10,000 funerals.

Helping people with last rites has stood Gomathy Ammal and her daughter in good stead. Their monthly earnings top Rs. 10,000 and they now support about 40 staff, 15 of whom have no family, and feed 40-50 people every Ammavasai (new moon day). She also does five free funerals every month. They have bought a home with their joint savings, married off Karpagam's daughter and educated her son.

Women's day are meant for the women like Gomathy Ammal stirring the souls. It is not for celebrating with crowns, roses and for marketing gimmicks.