It won't be wrong to say that the most inspiring stories come from a long struggle through hardships and difficulties. Instead of lamenting, when life puts them through a trial, they take it as an opportunity to strike back. One such resolute woman, who inspired a million lives, is Kalpana Saroj, an entrepreneur who was born into a Dalit family, had to drop out of school, was married off early, but turned the bad time around with perseverance and determination. Here is the inspiring story of Kalpana Saroj, who fought against all odds to achieve her dreams. A child bride at the age of 12 Born in Vidharbha, Maharashtra, in a Dalit family where her father was a constable, Kalpana was a bright student. Despite her academic excellence and intelligence, she faced the cast-discrimination throughout her growing up years. People in her neighbourhood forbade their children from playing or eating with her. Things weren't any different in school, where she was excluded for coming from a lower caste.

Her hard work and contribution received due honour when she was awarded the Padma Shri for Trade and Industry in 2013. She was also appointed to the board of directors of Bhartiya Mahila Bank, by the government of India.

Salute to the spirit of this inspiring woman!