Today (3rd January) is the 193rd birth anniversary of one of the most illustrious teachers of modern India, Savitribai Phule. She was a prominent social reformer, poet, and pioneer of women empowerment in 19th-century. Contributions of her, along with her husband Jyothi Rao, for women's rights and education are unparalleled and continue to inspire generations. She advocated for the education of girl children and lower castes and contributed greatly to transforming their lives.
A Beacon of Women Rights:
Savitribai Phule was a trailblazer in promoting education for women in India. Along with her husband, Jyoti Rao Phule, she established the first school for girls in Pune in 1848. This was a revolutionary step as education for girls was not widely encouraged during that time.
Advocated Social Equality:
She was an advocate for social equality and worked against the caste-based discrimination prevalent in society. She opened her school to children from all castes and communities, promoting an inclusive and egalitarian educational environment. Savitribai was vocal about the rights of widows and advocated for the remarriage of widowed women. She challenged the societal norms that stigmatized widows and fought for their right to lead a normal life.
Campaign against Child Marriages:
Phule Couple actively campaigned against child marriage, recognizing the detrimental impact it had on the lives of young girls. Their efforts contributed to creating awareness about the harmful consequences of child marriages. Besides social activism, Savitribai & Jyothi Rao also contributed to the literary field as prolific writers and poets. Phule couple used their literary skills to spread awareness about social issues and promote the importance of education and equality.
Role in Satyashodhak Samaj:
Savitribai and Jyoti Rao Phule were actively involved in the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society for Truth Seekers), a social reform movement aimed at challenging oppressive social practices and promoting human rights. They established an orphanage and a shelter for the needy. This initiative aimed to provide support and care to those in need, irrespective of their caste or background.
Savitribai Phule's contributions to education and social reform were groundbreaking during her time, and her legacy inspires movements for women's rights and social equality in India. She is remembered as one of the pioneering figures in the country's social reform history.
