Sampat Pal was twelve when she was married off by her parents. As a low-caste Indian woman living in a poor rural area, she had little rights and minimal education, and her life consisted of domestic chores for her husband and in-laws. But Pal always had a thirst for justice and she first began her fight for the rights of others when she could no longer bear to listen to her young neighbour being beaten by her husband every night. Over the years, she has established and grown a group of human rights supporters known as the Gulabi Gang. This group of largely low-caste pink sari wearing women has gained national attention in India. They intervene in cases of domestic abuse, police corruption, getting justice for rape victims, education for girls, and child marriage. Part social workers and part vigilantes, these baton wielding women are not afraid to use physical force if faced with violence, intimidation or indifference.
Since reading this book, I have been fascinated by the fate of Pal and want to find out what has happened to her and if she is still working with the gang. Pink Sari Revolution is an inspiring true story of people fighting for the rights we take for granted - it is well worth taking the time to read.
Reviewed at Young @ Heart Bookgroup
Catalogue Link: Pink Sari
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