Yashoda Lodhi is redefining the image of women from rural India by offering English lessons online. Her story challenges stereotypes associated with women from small villages, showcasing her fluency and confidence in English despite having studied only until Class 12 in a Hindi-medium school. Residing in Kaushambi district, Uttar Pradesh, Yashoda has garnered significant attention through her Instagram account, ‘English with Dehati Madam’, which boasts over 725,000 followers.

Her popularity soared recently when global icon Priyanka Chopra shared one of her videos, further amplifying her reach. In an exclusive interview, Yashoda discussed her unexpected journey into the world of online education, her embrace of the term ‘Dehati’, and her aspirations for other rural women.

Initially, Yashoda faced numerous challenges while creating her first YouTube video. She struggled with stammering and expressing her thoughts clearly. However, she has since transformed her own difficulties into a teaching method that empowers children to speak confidently in English.

Overcoming Financial Challenges

Yashoda’s upbringing was marked by financial constraints, which shaped her determination to support her family. Her parents prioritised education, but they could not provide her with many resources. After her husband suffered an accident, the financial burden on their family intensified, making it increasingly difficult to manage daily expenses.

Yashoda recalled that her husband earned only Rs 250-300 a day, which was insufficient for their family’s needs. The situation worsened when his medical treatment and a fire in their wheat field added to their financial woes. This prompted Yashoda to question traditional gender roles and her ability to contribute to the family’s income.

In late 2021, she received a smartphone during Diwali, which opened up new possibilities for her. Initially, she used it to learn everyday skills but soon realised it could also be a platform for earning money. This realisation marked the beginning of her journey into the digital world.

Finding Her Voice on YouTube

Yashoda’s first foray into YouTube was through a channel called ‘Re Motivation’, where she featured motivational content. However, she soon recognised that this did not fulfil her desire for creative expression. Determined to carve out her own niche, she shifted her focus to teaching English.

In December 2022, she launched her current channel, which quickly became her identity online. Despite initial struggles with fluency, Yashoda persevered, and her dedication allowed her to develop a unique teaching style that resonates with her audience.

The name ‘English with Dehati Madam’ plays a crucial role in her brand. Yashoda embraces the term ‘Dehati’, often used pejoratively, to highlight her rural roots and challenge societal perceptions. She aims to demonstrate that women from villages can achieve great things and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Empowering Other Women

Yashoda’s growing presence on social media has led to unexpected recognition, including a shout-out from Priyanka Chopra. Despite her newfound fame, she continues to juggle her online teaching with household responsibilities. Yashoda hopes her journey will inspire other women in rural areas to pursue their dreams, regardless of their financial or educational background.

She advises women to leverage technology, such as smartphones, to develop their skills and explore new opportunities. Yashoda believes that hard work and determination can help women overcome barriers and achieve their aspirations at any stage of life.

Through her journey, Yashoda Lodhi has not only built a successful online presence but has also created a platform for empowerment and change. Balancing her responsibilities at home and her role as an educator, she exemplifies the potential of women in rural India to transform their lives and communities while proudly embracing their identities.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share