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Life Beyond Politics

By on August 18, 2018

Student journalist Girija Dempo discusses governor Dr Mridula Sinha’s time away from the spotlight

What was your childhood like?

I was fortunate to be born in a family where I was brought up with utmost care and love. Being the youngest, I was pampered a lot.

I grew up spending a lot of time with my father, where he shared his thoughts and I learned many good values and inspiring stories.

He was a teacher, and believed that education unlocked the golden door to a successful future.

For this, he enrolled me in a boarding school far from my village at eight years. Back then, boarding schools were a rare thing. I was the only child from the village to attend a boarding school which garnered appreciation from the entire village .

What attracted you to politics? Did you feel you were at a disadvantage being a woman?

My husband, Dr Ram Kripal Sinha, was always active in politics, and I always saw how busy his schedules were. But slowly, I began accompanying him and participating in political programmes, and gradually started developing an interest in politics.

In those days, surviving politics as a woman was tough. But I worked hard and remained focused, gaining recognition and a good position in the political party. I was also fortunate to be guided by senior leaders from whom I learnt a lot about politics and its dynamics.

The feeling of serving the society and the political power you gain so as to help the general public is what attracted me to the field. I am glad I have been able to reach out to people and help them.

It gives me immense happiness serving as governor of Goa, where I get opportunities to connect with people from different walks of life.

Read the full article in 'Viva Goa' magazine copy.

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