The idea to create “Priya’s Shakti” comic book series came after the horrible gang rape that happened on a bus in New Delhi in 2012. There was an enormous outcry in particular from young adults and teenagers —both women and men. Many people felt a cultural shift had to happen, especially views towards the role of women in modern society. Deep-rooted patriarchal views needed to be challenged. As a result, we created a new Indian “superhero” – Priya, who is a rape survivor and through the power of persuasion she is able to motivate people to change.

This first story was specifically constructed to address the problem of blaming victims of sexual violence and provided a character, Priya, who could inspire change throughout communities by appealing to audiences — especially youth — with an empathetic narrative. Priya’s story became a powerful voice in the global movement for women’s rights and a symbol of solidarity against gender-based violence and continuing with the #MeToo movement. The creators of the comic book were honored by UN Women as “gender equality champions.”