On Mother's Day, we celebrate the love and sacrifice of mothers everywhere. One such mother whose story stands out is Hirkani, a poor milkmaid living near the Raigad fort in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's kingdom. Hirkani's act of bravery to be with her child is a testament to the incredible power of a mother's love.
Hirkani's day-to-day life was simple, selling milk to the citizens within the fort's walls. However, one evening, she got delayed and missed the closing of the gates. Her heart sank as she realized she had left her baby at home and knew she had to get back to him. With determination and grit, Hirkani decided to climb down the dangerous and steep hillside, all in the dead of night. It was a treacherous journey, and she was scratched, hurt, and shaken, but her love for her child kept her going. Finally, after what seemed like hours, Hirkani made it down to her baby.
Hirkani's bravery and courage did not go unnoticed. The next day, when she tried to enter the fort, she was immediately taken to Chhatrapati Shivaji on charges of breaking the rules. However, instead of punishing her, Shivaji was moved by her love for her child and her bravery. He praised her and ordered for a wall to be built at the unprotected vertical drop, naming it after Hirkani.
Hirkani's story is a shining example of a mother's love and sacrifice. Her journey down the dangerous hillside, risking her life to be with her child, is a reminder that a mother's love knows no bounds. On this Mother's Day, let us honor all the mothers like Hirkani, who have done the unthinkable for their children and continue to inspire us with their strength and courage.