SHIRODA: Raised in a patriarchal society, where a woman’s worth often hinges on her husband’s existence, Savita Naik Vaidhya defied the norm, battling her way through life’s hurdles alone. After losing her husband a mere eight years into their marriage, she bravely embraced the responsibilities of running her household. Through the rain of difficulties and the thorns of challenges, she earned the fitting moniker of the ‘flower woman’.
Hailing from the village of Vaaje-Shiroda, Savita has been selling flowers at local temple feasts for over 44 years. Now at the age of 75, her energy still radiates like a morning bloom. Following her husband’s death in 1979, Savita turned to selling flowers to provide for her three children - two sons and a daughter. Witnessing her success in the Shirodk area, she expanded her business to zatras (local temple feasts) at Maruti Gad of Savarde, Bhutnath Mandir at Paroda, Fatarpe, Dudhsagar, Gatmarad-Sheldem, Kothambi, Zambaulim, and other popular events.
Despite enduring hardships, Savita takes pride in giving her children a good education, and today, they stand independent in their lives. Her remarkable journey caught the attention of Central Minister Smriti Irani, who honoured her during the Navratri Utsav festival, dedicated to celebrating
feminine energy.
A familiar sight in the Kamakshi Temple premises of Shiroda during Amavasya every month, Savita continues to display unwavering dedication, arriving at the temple at 3 am. While she used to purchase flowers from Margao and Chandor, she now limits her travels and receives assistance from her grandchildren and daughters-in-laws, who help in making garlands.
Reflecting on the rapidly changing world, Savita observes the rise of ready-made items, including plastic flowers that have affected traditional flower sellers. Nevertheless, she firmly believes that organic elements cannot be easily replaced. Her wish is for women to be independent and self-reliant, recognizing the strength and capability they possess in preserving local businesses.