Life can be tough, throwing setbacks our way until we feel like giving up. At those times, we need to remind ourselves that it’s not the end. Raksha Khadse’s inspiring story shows us this—she’s a single mother who is now a minister in Maharashtra.

In 2013, Raksha Khadse lost her husband, Nikhil Khadse, when her son was two and a half and her daughter was four years old. Despite this huge setback, she made an incredible comeback, becoming a single mother responsible for two children. “My life was full of pain,” Raksha told a media portal.

With resilience and strength, Raksha began her political journey. She started as the sarpanch (member of the village council), of her village, Kothadi,(village in Maharashtra, West India) and then became a member of the Jalgaon (Maharashtra, West India) Zila Parishad (District Council). Her success in local politics led her to run for MP in 2014 at just 26 years old. Her determination saw her elected as MP three times from the Raver constituency. On Sunday, she was sworn in as a minister in Maharashtra.

“Taking the oath as a minister is a big thing for me when I look back at how I started. My husband died when my son was two and a half, and my daughter was four. My personal life was full of pain, but the support and love of the people helped me move forward,” Raksha said.

Raksha is unique as a politician because of her selfless dedication. She worked because she loved her work, not for any particular position. “I never worked for any post or position. Today, I am really happy that PM Narendra Modi honored me with a ministerial position,” she shared.

Raksha Khadse’s success was supported by her father-in-law, Eknath Khadse. Eknath Khadse praised Raksha’s success, calling her an asset for Maharashtra’s development. “My daughter-in-law becoming a union minister is the most joyful moment in my life. I am confident that Raksha’s contribution will greatly benefit our region and Maharashtra. This is a very emotional moment for me,” he said.

Raksha Khadse, as a single mother, caretaker, and successful politician, has become a symbol of inspiration. Her journey reminds many of Rani Lakshmi Bai, a single mother, queen, and fighter. While the comparison might be far-fetched, Raksha’s journey is truly inspiring, showing that a woman can overcome any obstacle and inspire a generation.

Re-reported from the article originally published in She the People.