"Remembering Savitribai Phule: Celebrating the Trailblazing Legacy of India's First Female Teacher and Social Reformer on her Janm-Jayanti"

 

Savitribai Phule was an Indian social reformer, poet, and educator who played a pivotal role in the women's rights movement in the 19th century. She was born on January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, Maharashtra, into a family of farmers.

 

Despite facing numerous challenges and societal barriers, Savitribai Phule dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of women and the oppressed. She strongly believed in the power of education as a means to empower individuals and bring about social change. At a very young age of 9, she was married to Jyotirao Phule, who was 13 at the time and was one of the famous social reformers of Maharashtra.

 

In 1848, she and her husband, Jyotirao Phule, established the first school for girls in Pune, Maharashtra. This was a revolutionary step at a time when education for girls was considered unnecessary and even taboo. By 1851, Phule was running 18 schools for children of different castes, with a strength of 150 girls.

 

 

Savitribai Phule faced immense criticism and opposition from conservative sections of society for her efforts to educate girls. She was often subjected to verbal abuse and even physical attacks while going to school. However, she persevered and continued her work, determined to bring about a positive change in society. In 1852, the British government acknowledged the great work of Phule in the field of education and honoured Savitribai by naming her the best teacher.

 

 

Apart from her work in education, Savitribai Phule also actively campaigned against social evils like caste discrimination and untouchability. She advocated for the rights of Dalits (formerly known as untouchables) and worked towards their upliftment. She also fought against child marriage and advocated for widow remarriage, which were prevalent practices at that time.

 

 

Savitribai Phule's contribution to the women's rights movement in India cannot be overstated. She was a pioneer in challenging the patriarchal norms and advocating for gender equality. Through her writings and poetry, she highlighted the struggles and aspirations of women in society. Her poems often addressed issues like women's education, widowhood, and the need for social reform. Savitri bai Phule passed away on 10th March 1897 at the age of 64, while fighting the plague.

 

 

Savitribai Phule's legacy continues to inspire generations of women in India and beyond. Her relentless efforts to promote education and fight for social justice have left an indelible mark on the history of women's empowerment. She remains an icon of courage, resilience, and determination, and her contributions continue to shape the ongoing struggle for gender equality in India.