Hisila Yami, born on 25 June 1959, is an emblem of resilience, vision, and unyielding commitment to social transformation. Known by her nom de guerre, Parvati, Yami stands as one of Nepal’s most influential women, bridging the worlds of activism, architecture, and politics. Her journey is a testament to determination and the pursuit of justice, as she has tirelessly championed women’s rights, social equity, and progressive politics.
Daughter of Dharma Ratna Yami, a noted social activist and author, Hisila Yami inherited a legacy of activism early in life. Her formative years were shaped by her father’s advocacy for societal change, which planted the seeds of her revolutionary spirit.
Hisila Yami: Excellence in Education and Early Activism
Yami’s academic achievements are as impressive as her political endeavors. She graduated from the School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi, India, in 1982, and further honed her expertise with a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, in 1995. These accomplishments laid the foundation for her unique approach to politics, blending structure, planning, and vision with the principles of social reform.
Her activism began to take shape during her university years. From 1981 to 1982, she served as General Secretary of the All India Nepalese Students’ Association, advocating for the rights and needs of Nepalese students abroad. This role marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to championing underrepresented voices.
Leading the Charge for Women’s Liberation
Yami’s activism gained prominence during Nepal’s 1990 uprising against the Panchayat regime, where she emerged as a high-profile female leader. As President of the All Nepal Women’s Association (Revolutionary) from 1995 to 1997, she amplified the voices of countless women, advocating for their rights and opportunities in a traditionally patriarchal society.
Her dedication to women’s empowerment extended beyond rhetoric. Co-authoring works such as Adhikar: Demystification of Law for Nepali Women, she sought to simplify complex legal frameworks, enabling Nepalese women to understand and claim their rights.
A Revolutionary Path: Underground Activism
In 1996, Hisila Yami went underground to join the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) during the People’s War, adopting the alias “Parvati.” Her contributions as a Central Committee Member and her involvement in the party’s International Department positioned her as a pivotal figure in Nepal’s fight for equality and justice. Her book, People’s War and Women’s Liberation in Nepal, captures this transformative period, detailing the intersection of revolution and gender emancipation.
Rising to Political Prominence
Hisila Yami re-emerged in 2003 during peace negotiations between the government and Maoist forces. This marked the beginning of her formal political journey, which saw her take on roles such as Minister of Physical Planning and Works in 2007 and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation in 2008.
Her victory in the Constituent Assembly elections of 2008 further solidified her political stature, as she played a crucial role in drafting Nepal’s new constitution, advocating for inclusive policies and equitable representation.
Founding New Political Movements
In 2015, Hisila Yami, alongside her husband Baburam Bhattarai, broke away from the CPN (Maoist) to establish the Naya Shakti Party, signaling a fresh approach to Nepalese politics. This was followed by a merger with the Federal Socialist Forum in 2019, forming the Samajbadi Party, Nepal, further reflecting her commitment to progressive and inclusive governance.
Balancing Personal and Public Life
Beyond her political achievements, Hisila Yami is a devoted wife and mother. Married to fellow revolutionary leader Baburam Bhattarai, their partnership symbolizes a shared vision for Nepal’s future. Together, they have navigated the challenges of public life while raising their daughter, embodying the balance of personal strength and public service.
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