In response to how contemporary women can draw inspiration from these historical heroines, Oak remarks, “There is nothing they cannot learn.” He speaks about Mahabharata’s Draupadi as an exemplar of courage, strength, and humility, and Kunti, the Pandavas’ mother, who chose a life of simplicity in the forest after the war, as a symbol for justice rather than luxury, this selflessness and sense of purpose, Oak notes, are virtues that remain profoundly relevant.
Reflecting on his journey, Oak shares that his research began with note-taking in the late 1980s and has since evolved over three decades into a deep dive into India’s past. He expresses a personal commitment to correct the distortions that have marred Indian history, especially those from the last 300 years.
“Our history has been destroyed beyond recognition,” he lamentes, underscoring the need to reclaim the true stories of India’s past.
Oak’s work brings to light the legacy of remarkable women who shaped Indian civilisation, aiming to inspire modern women with grace, courage, and wisdom of these Heroines of Dharma like Draupadi and Kunti. Through his research, Oak hopes to restore the recognition these historical figures deserve and, in doing so, inspire contemporary women to embrace challenges with resilience and strength.
