Introduction

Suma Tharu, a native of Bardiya District in Nepal, played a significant role in the opening ceremony of the third “Women in the World” summit held at Lincoln Center in New York, USA, in March 2012.

Background

As a former Kamlari girl, Suma Tharu experienced six years of indentured servitude. Her participation at the summit symbolized the resilience and strength of women who have endured and overcome adversity.

The Song

During the ceremony, Suma sang a song that recounted her personal story, sharing with the audience the hardships she faced during her years as a Kamlari. Her performance highlighted the realities of indentured servitude and brought attention to the challenges faced by young women in Nepal.

Audience and Impact

The summit was attended by many prominent and influential women from across the globe, including the American First Lady, Hillary R. Clinton. Suma’s heartfelt performance resonated with attendees and served as a powerful reminder of the importance of advocating for women’s rights and empowerment.