New Book ‘Mrs Happily Single’ Celebrates Women’s Empowerment

The book *Mrs Happily Single*, authored by Shubha Sarma and published by Niyogi Books, was officially launched on October 14, 2023, at the Gita Govinda Sadan in Bhubaneswar. This new work focuses on themes of self-discovery, challenges to societal norms, and the pursuit of personal happiness, resonating deeply with readers for its authentic portrayal of a woman’s inner journey.

Several distinguished guests attended the launch, including Adyasha Satpathy, Chief Executive of *Dharitri* and *Orissa POST*, as well as eminent authors Tarun Kanti Mishra and Satya Mishra. The event also attracted numerous readers, civil servants, academicians, and fellow writers, enriching the atmosphere with diverse perspectives.

During the ceremony, Sarma expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout the writing process, stating, “Writing this book took four to five years. It’s a journey of reflection and resilience, encouraging women to embrace themselves rather than over-prioritise family or societal expectations.” Her comments highlighted the depth of commitment required to bring the characters and themes to life.

Reading a passage from her novel, Sarma noted, “Novels take time to build characters and moments. Sometimes you even forget where you left off, but every word becomes part of the story’s emotional fabric.” This reflection underscores the intricate nature of storytelling and the personal investment authors make in their work.

The book’s narrative centers around the protagonist, Malini, whose story captures the complexities faced by many women today. In her remarks, Satpathy emphasized that *Mrs Happily Single* begins with an appealing simplicity that immediately engages the reader. “The story beautifully captures the complexity of a woman torn between her career and family. Her decision to leave her marriage with dignity makes her a symbol of strength,” she commented.

Satpathy further highlighted the book’s remarkable honesty, stating, “It doesn’t glorify pain, nor does it preach. It simply mirrors the inner strength every woman possesses but often forgets in the noise of expectations.” This perspective resonates with the core message of the book, which encourages women to redefine happiness on their own terms.

As the evening progressed, attendees engaged in a lively discussion about the character of Malini and the various women depicted in the book. The conversation revolved around themes of women’s empowerment and the courage required to forge one’s own path in life.

The launch of *Mrs Happily Single* marks a significant addition to contemporary literature that seeks to inspire and empower women, encouraging them to embrace their individuality amidst societal pressures. As readers explore the narrative, they are invited to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and fulfillment.