THERE are leaders who show direction to the others, and there are followers who tread the path. When Kiran Bedi became the first Indian lady IPS officer way back in 1972, getting on to the pedestal of success was a pipe dream for most Indian women. Bedi’s success story inspired many into believing that the fairer sex could achieve what they wanted only if they followed their dream with an iron will.

    What made Bedi a source of motivation was her relentless struggle against huge odds. She streamlined the traffic in Delhi, brought about path-breaking reforms in Tihar jail and, after leaving her mark in everything she did, she decided to opt for voluntary retirement. But, she didn’t rest on her laurels. Instead, she decided to spend her time on spreading awareness among the people as TV host, social worker, and guest lecturer.

    Her television programme deals with people’s personal problems like divorce, harassment, sexual abuse etc. How does she feel hosting the show? Isn’t it difficult to make people open up on a show? “It’s an amazing sense of social responsibility and justice delivery. It’s a movement by itself. I do believe this initiative will roll out a movement in itself. And, it is very difficult to do this. I salute all those who had the courage to share their problems publicly for others to learn from their lives.”

    But, it is social work that she is channeling all her energies towards. Having opened two NGOs, she is happy with the way they are serving the larger good. “I couldn’t have asked for more. Being the master of my own time is the best gift one can ever get. I haven’t left any moment without being creative and productive and being for the larger good.”

    And, the visible change she witnessed after quitting service was the amazing sense of ownership and freedom. There are no formalities, no egos to be satisfied, no red tape etc. So impressed was the Australian filmmaker Megan Doneman by this Magsaysay winner’s commitment to society that she has made a film on Bedi’s life titled Yes Madam, Sir. And, it was not an easy task, as the director has been working on Bedi’s life for the last eight to nine years. “I was living, and she was shooting,” explains Kiran Bedi.

    The movie, which has been recently showcased at the Dubai film festival, talks about how Bedi has been consistent in her attitude. It is also about she responded to the challenges around her and her approach to issues such as those connected with the legal fraternity. As part of her social work, she urges the common man to take on the system. Isn’t it easier said than done? “It’s not a common man, but common men. It’s people’s movement. It’s people's movement that will bring about the change,” she says.

    With such a hectic lifestyle, shouldn’t she take time out for herself ? What is she all about, we wonder. “I am one who is quiet, goes for walks, goes to bed early, and lives on one meal a day. There is no pressure on the cook at all. My cook is the happiest,” she says, laughing. And, the ripples of her laughter are lighting up the lives of many people around the country.