Roshaniben: Beginning Again at Twenty Five

In the village of Bhiljamboli, Roshaniben is learning to rebuild her life at just 25.

Widowed at a young age, she now carries the full responsibility of raising her small child — a little one who has just begun school. Some days she stays with her parents. Other days, with her in-laws. Between these two homes, she is trying to create one steady future.

Her child’s education and care are her first priority. Even at this early stage of schooling, she thinks ahead — about continuity, stability, and dignity.

Roshaniben does not own agricultural land. She depends largely on daily wage work to meet household and childcare expenses. There are no savings to fall back on. Income is uncertain, and each month requires careful balancing.

Her in-laws are involved in animal husbandry, and she supports them in this work. Their encouragement offers some stability. Her parents, too, stand by her. Yet widowhood at such a young age brings emotional weight — the pressure of navigating adulthood, motherhood, and uncertainty all at once.

She has the necessary documentation related to her husband’s passing but has not yet accessed government schemes that could support her livelihood and her child’s education. With guidance and structured assistance, she can unlock entitlements that rightfully belong to her.

Roshaniben is particularly interested in sewing. With proper training, equipment, and financial support, she has the potential to build a home-based livelihood — something that allows her to earn while remaining close to her child.

What stands out about Roshaniben is not fragility.
It is willingness.
It is the courage to begin again when life changes too soon.

She does not speak of defeat. She speaks of work, of learning, of moving forward.

With steady support — from welfare access to skill-based training and livelihood guidance — Roshaniben can move from uncertainty toward independence.

She does not ask for sympathy.
She asks for a chance to stand on her own feet.

At the Smt Jayalakshmi Memorial Single Mother Foundation, we believe women like Roshaniben do not need rescue.
They need partnership.
They need pathways.
They need someone to walk beside them.
Because when a young mother chooses to rise despite loss, her child grows up believing in resilience. Our promise… no single mother walks alone. 🌿