The overwhelming emotions I am currently experiencing upon receiving one of the highest honours possible in the United Kingdom cannot be adequately expressed. Being awarded a Damehood fills me with immense pride and gratitude. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my parents, who left India with the hope of creating a better life for our family in Britain. Unfortunately, our paths diverged when I found myself in an arranged marriage that turned into a forced marriage. The injustice of losing my dear sister Robina to suicide and being disowned by my family, who deemed me dishonourable, compelled me to establish the charity, Karma Nirvana.
My determination has always been to make a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our society, and I will continue to do so with unwavering conviction. My Damehood offers me a higher platform to achieve this. My journey did not begin with privilege, as I left school without qualifications and did not read a book until I turned 28. I have been disowned by my family for most of my life. I have always felt like I have been fighting for justice throughout my life, and I do not take my independence for granted. As I receive my Damehood, the legacy of Karma Nirvana lives on, and I will persist in speaking out on issues that silence many individuals within our communities. Currently, I am working on various campaigns, and I will utilise this honour for the greater good, as there is still much work to be done.
Over the past three decades, I have dedicated myself to campaigning for change, and I have no regrets. Sometimes, this meant giving my children less of my presence, but their understanding has sustained me, and I am genuinely grateful to them. They, nor my grandchildren will ever have to endure a legacy of abuse, and today, I can proudly say that thousands more will also have the freedom to choose independence, and I am proud of this. I especially want to honour the courageous men and women who bravely fight against abuse, often at great personal cost.
Lastly, but certainly not least, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have collaborated with me over the years. I thank you for providing platforms and believing in the causes I have campaigned for.
I reflect on the fact that many have perceived me as being without honour. I believe that my honour is their shame.
