Being single is a choice and that is the title of sports journalist Sharda Ugra’s upcoming book, ‘Single by Choice’. In our country, single ladies get a lot of flak for choosing their freedom and solitude instead of devoting their lives in service of their husband, family, and children. Sharda, an independent woman herself has penned down stories of women who chose singlehood, and the initial reactions they received from society. Ugra shares that people have a definite assumption about unmarried/single women like they lead a dark, forlorn and depressing lives. This urged the writer to give a reminder to the civilization that singlehood is a normal experience. The book has a total of 13 essays drafted by an unmarried woman who is very comfortable with their single status. More than being comfortable these women are content with their life. Among these 13 ladies renowned craft activist Laila Tyabji, Tamil Dalit writer Bama and scientist Vinneta Bal have shared their experience and the book has been edited by journalist Kalpana Sharma. Sharma says,
“The idea was to bring together voices across age groups, and not just older women who had decided to stay unmarried.”
Activist Tyabji shares that it was more of a natural process for than a conscious decision. She also expressed that her life is already crowded and so busy that she didn’t know where she would fit a husband and family in it. Moreover, it was easy for her because of her unconventional and liberal family.
On the other hand, writer Bama belonging from Padhupatti village had a comparatively difficult time. She says that she even lied about being married and said that her husband worked elsewhere. Although they also have their share of loneliness, it is nothing compared to the calmness and serenity that comes from solitude. Sharda Ugra’s book will be available from 30th July.
