BOOK REVIEW
THE PERSONAL IS POLITICAL
Review by: Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, VM
Former Vice Chief of Air Staff, Indian Air Force.
Aruna Roy’s memoir, The Personal Is Political: An Activist’s Memoir, offers an in-depth exploration of her journey from a privileged upbringing and a position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) to becoming a grassroots activist dedicated to empowering marginalised communities in rural India. The title reflects the feminist slogan popularised during the second wave of the movement in the 1960s, encapsulating the central theme of her book: the intersection of personal experiences with broader political issues.
Roy’s narrative is a testament to her belief that personal activism, fuelled by empathy and commitment, can bring about systemic change. She recounts her resignation from the IAS in 1975 to join the Social Work and Research Centre (SWRC) in Tilonia, Rajasthan, founded by her husband, Bunker Roy. This decision marked the beginning of her deep engagement with grassroots movements, leading to the establishment of the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) and significant contributions to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Right to Work, and the Right to Food movements in India.
Throughout the memoir, Roy reflects on her experiences as a woman activist navigating male-dominated spaces and grappling with deeply ingrained social conditioning of masculinity. She shares stories of women she regards as her teachers, friends, and fellow activists, contributing to the oral history tradition in modern times. Her narrative underscores a profound humility and willingness to listen and learn, enriching the discourse on grassroots activism and social change.
Roy challenges the misconception that women, particularly those in rural areas, need skill training for better remuneration. She contends that this notion undermines these women’s immense labour and marginalises their work by labelling it “unskilled.” Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the skill and effort required in these roles, advocating for proper recognition of their contributions.
The memoir operates as a profound meditation on two distinct yet intertwined levels. Roy introspectively examines herself on one level—her ideas, choices, rationality, and conscience. On the other hand, she questions broader societal structures: patriarchal norms, the exploitation of labour, and caste-based discrimination. Her unwavering commitment to social justice is evident as she emphasises the transformative power of empathy. This empathy, she argues, is crucial in understanding the struggles of the marginalised and in fuelling the relentless struggle to overturn these injustices.
Roy’s insights into gender, labour, friendship, organised resistance, and social justice challenge readers to rethink their perceptions and engage more deeply with the world around them. Her memoir, serving as a historical document, is both a guide and an inspiration for those seeking to understand and challenge systemic inequalities. Her journey from an IAS officer to a grassroots activist illustrates the transformative power of empathy and commitment, making her memoir a vital contribution to understanding and addressing social inequities.
In addition to her activism, Roy’s memoir delves into her reflections on various topics, ranging from oral history and literature to feminism and multiple aspects of democracy, including decentralisation. She provides thoughtful commentary on the importance of grassroots movements and the crucial role of ordinary people in bringing about sustainable change, instilling a sense of empowerment and hope in the readers.
Roy’s narrative is enriched by her tributes to colleagues, particularly women from poorer rural families, whom she considers her mentors. She highlights their resilience and extraordinary resistance to oppression, emphasising that every issue, whether poverty, discrimination, inequality, or corruption, has personal and political ramifications. Roy demonstrates that each individual can make a difference by connecting the personal and the political.
The memoir has received praise for its depth and insight. Economists Amartya Sen and Jean Drèze describe it as a reflection on “a life of deep engagement, weaving the personal and the political,” calling it “a great inspiration.” Similarly, author Perumal Murugan notes that the book reinforces the proverb “Actions are the best words spoken,” highlighting the importance of action in bringing about change. The book’s reception not only underscores its literary merit but also its significant contribution to the discourse on social justice and activism.
In conclusion, Aruna Roy’s The Personal Is Political: An Activist’s Memoir is a compelling and thought-provoking account of a life dedicated to social justice and grassroots activism. Roy illustrates the profound connection between individual experiences and broader political movements through her journey, offering valuable insights into the transformative power of empathy, commitment, and organised resistance. Her memoir serves as both an inspiration and a guide for those seeking to understand and challenge societal systemic inequalities.
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