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New Delhi. Union Cabinet Minister Smriti Zubin Irani and RSS Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar released the book “A Hindu in Oxford”, authored by the resilient Rashmi Samant, at a prestigious event held at Constitution Club, New Delhi, on October 4th, 2023. The event was graced by Smriti Zubin Irani, as the Chief Guest, and Sunil Ambekar, as the Guest of Honor.
“A Hindu in Oxford” is a remarkable narrative that takes readers on a journey through the life of Rashmi Samant, a Hindu girl from Udupi, who defied all odds to become the President of the Oxford University Students Union. Her story is one of resilience, decolonization, and triumph over racism and discrimination.
The book launch event was an evening filled with inspiration and profound insights. Smriti Zubin Irani, in her address, commended Rashmi Samant for her remarkable achievements and for breaking barriers. She emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusivity in education and society. She said, “Rashmi Sawant’s book is a story of person who was bullied for her identity and views but she overcame that and won. But there should also be a book sharing stories of those who couldn’t do so”.
Sunil Ambekar shared his thoughts on the significance of Rashmi Samant’s story in the context of the educational landscape in Bharat and abroad. He praised her courage and determination in the face of adversity. He said, “Some people and some countries have monopolised what is liberal and modern and what is communal and regressive. We should not adhere their definitions and we need to have our views based on our culture and identity”.
Rashmi Sawant shared her journey and what she went through in Oxford. She said “I was extensively harassed for my views and being proud of my identity. But I stood firm on my ground”.
On behalf of Garuda Prakashan, Ankur Pathak, Co-founder, and COO of the publishing house, expressed his gratitude to the audience and highlighted the importance of publishing narratives that bring forth the voices of individuals who have faced discrimination and adversity. He stated, “Rashmi Samant’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and her story serves as an inspiration for us all”.
“A Hindu in Oxford” provides readers with a firsthand account of the challenges and discrimination faced by Rashmi Samant during her time at Oxford University. It is a gripping and well-narrated story that sheds light on the harsh realities of prejudice and the resilience required to overcome it. The book promises to be a thought-provoking read for individuals seeking to understand and address issues of discrimination.
