Vasanti Vijay Palkar, a 72-year-old priest from Pune, is breaking centuries-old gender norms by performing Hindu rituals traditionally led by men.

Inspired by her grandfather, she began her Paurohitya journey at 43, undergoing formal training under Jyotsana Bodas for over two decades. Her husband supported her ambitions wholeheartedly, often taking care of household chores so she could study.

Despite facing criticism from conservative priests citing menstruation as impurity, Palkar held her ground, believing that true devotion transcends gender. Over the years, she has conducted countless ceremonies-Satyanarayan pujas, Vastu Shanti, weddings-with grace and knowledge. Her calm demeanor and clarity have led many to prefer her over male priests.

She never charges a fixed fee, often traveling far without compensation, stating that her work brings inner peace and spiritual satisfaction. Her journey is a beacon of empowerment, proving that faith, when rooted in purpose and compassion, has no gender.

Palkar’s story inspires women to walk the sacred path with dignity, resilience, and unwavering belief.