Dr Bharti Gupta
On 15th August 2024, India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, marking a journey of progress and transformation. Since gaining independence, Indian society has made significant strides in recognizing the invaluable contributions of women and promoting gender equality. This write-up is dedicated to honoring the pivotal role women played in the independence struggle and their emerging roles in shaping India’s development post-independence. From the fearless leaders who championed freedom to the modern-day trailblazers driving social, economic, and political change, women have been at the forefront of the nation’s progress. Their relentless pursuit of equality and empowerment continues to inspire and uplift society, fostering a more inclusive and equitable India. As we celebrate this momentous day, we pay tribute to the remarkable achievements of women and reaffirm our commitment to advancing gender equality in every sphere of life.
Women were the backbone of the Indian freedom struggle, participating as leaders, revolutionaries, social reformers, educators, and grassroots activists. Their courage, determination, and resilience were instrumental in the country’s fight for freedom. Their contributions helped shape the course of the struggle and laid the groundwork for their continued involvement in post-independence India’s political and social spheres.
Women took on leadership roles that galvanized the masses and provided direction to the movement. Begum Hazrat Mahal, rebelled against the British during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. She was a symbol of resistance and bravery. Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, a key figure in the 1857 rebellion, fought valiantly against British forces.
Sarojini Naidu, known as the “Nightingale of India,” was a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress. Her eloquence and dedication made her a key figure in mobilizing support for independence. Annie Besant, an Irish theosophist, became an ardent supporter of Indian self-rule, leading the Home Rule Movement and influencing many Indians through her speeches and writings.
Kamala Nehru, wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, actively participated in protests and was involved in organizing women in the freedom struggle. Her commitment to the cause was evident in her grassroots work and her efforts to engage women in political activism.
Women were instrumental in grassroots activism, participating in mass movements and civil disobedience campaigns. During the Salt March of 1930, women like Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay and Mithuben Petit joined Mahatma Gandhi in defying the British salt laws. Their participation highlighted the critical role women played in mass mobilization and non-violent resistance.
In the Quit India Movement of 1942, women were at the forefront. Aruna Asaf Ali became a prominent leader by hoisting the Indian flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay, marking the commencement of the movement. Her bravery and leadership inspired many to join the struggle for independence.
Women also took part in revolutionary activities, displaying extraordinary bravery and resolve. Bhikaji Cama was an early revolutionary who promoted the cause of Indian independence from abroad. She was one of the first to unfurl the Indian flag on foreign soil, symbolizing the international dimension of the freedom struggle.
Kalpana Dutta and Pritilata Waddedar were associated with the Chittagong Armoury Raid, a significant event in the revolutionary movement against British rule. Their participation in direct action against the British showcased the extent of women’s involvement in the fight for freedom.
Social reform and education were crucial aspects of the freedom struggle, with many women leading efforts to uplift and empower the marginalized. Pandita Ramabai worked tirelessly for the education and upliftment of women, advocating for their rights and emphasizing the importance of women’s participation in the national movement.
Savitribai Phule, along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, was a pioneering educationist and social reformer. She worked towards the education of girls and the upliftment of marginalized communities, laying the groundwork for greater involvement of women in public life.
Women played significant roles in mobilizing support for the independence movement through various organizations. The Women’s Indian Association (WIA), founded by Annie Besant, Margaret Cousins, and others, provided a platform for women to engage in political action and social reform.
The All India Women’s Conference (AIWC), founded in 1927, is a non-governmental organisationbased in Delhi. It was founded in 1927 by Margaret Cousins in order to improve educational efforts for women and children and has expanded its scope also to tackle other women’s rights issues. Many of its members were actively involved in the independence movement, contributing to the national cause while pushing for gender equality.
Women used literature and journalism as tools for advocacy and mobilization. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, a prominent leader, contributed through her writings and journalism, highlighting the issues faced by women and the need for independence. Apart from her role in the independence movement, she became the first health minister of independent India and was a key figure in the establishment of AIIMS, Delhi. She worked extensively on health and women’s issues. She also held the charge of Sports Minister and Urban Development Minister and was instrumental in setting up the National Institute of Sports, Patiala. She was also a member of the Constituent Assembly of India, the body that framed the Constitution of India.
Usha Mehta played a crucial role in organizing the Congress Radio, an underground radio station that broadcast messages to the Indian people during the Quit India Movement.
Women also contributed to the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of the freedom struggle. Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Mahatma Gandhi, and followers like Mirabehn (Madeleine Slade) supported and participated in Gandhi’s activities, promoting non-violence and self-reliance.
Spiritual leaders and reformers like Sister Nivedita (Margaret Noble) inspired people with their teachings on freedom and self-sacrifice, influencing many to join the national movement.
During crises such as the Bengal famine and communal riots, women were actively involved in providing relief, showcasing their leadership and organizational skills.
Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, was an active participant in the independence movement, she later became a significant diplomat for India, serving as the Indian ambassador to several countries. As a prominent politician, she was India’s first woman cabinet minister. Her extraordinary international achievements encompass her being India’s first ambassador to the United Nations (UN), the first ambassador to the Soviet Union, and the first woman elected as the president of the UN General Assembly.
The sacrifices, resilience, and contributions of these women were crucial in achieving India’s independence. Their stories of courage and dedication remind us of the significant role women played in shaping the destiny of a nation. As India continues to progress, the spirit of these women remains a guiding force, encouraging future generations to strive for equality and justice.
Post-independence, the social status of women in India has seen significant improvements across various spheres, thanks to progressive legislation, economic development, and social reforms. However, challenges remain in achieving full gender equality. Continuous efforts are needed to address these challenges and ensure that women can fully participate in and contribute to all aspects of society.
Post-independence, women in India have played a crucial and multifaceted role in the country’s development across various sectors, including politics, education, social reform, science and technology, business, arts and culture, and grassroots activism. Their contributions have significantly shaped the nation’s progress and continue to influence its trajectory. For instance, in Political Leadership and Governance we have names like Indira Gandhi, the first and only female Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi served from 1966 to 1977 and then from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. Her leadership during critical periods, such as the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, was pivotal. Pratibha Patil: She became the first woman President of India, serving from 2007 to 2012, symbolizing the increasing political empowerment of women. Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman leaders have held key ministerial positions, including the External Affairs Ministry and Finance Ministry, respectively, showcasing women’s growing influence in governance. Dr. Indira Hinduja, an Indian gynaecologist and infertility specialist who pioneered in-vitro fertilization (IVF) in India, leading to the birth of the country’s first test-tube baby in 1986.She also pioneered the Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) technique resulting in the birth of India’s first GIFT baby on 4 January 1988. In Science and Technology, Tessy Thomas, Known as the “Missile Woman of India,” She is the Director General of Aeronautical Systems, an Indian scientist and the former Project Director for Agni-IV missile in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). For India’s Agni-V project, Dr Tessy Thomas serves as both project director & key scientist. She is also referred by media as Agniputri. In Business and Entrepreneurship, Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, has been an inspiration for many Indian women in corporate leadership roles globally. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the founder of Biocon, a leading biotechnology company,has been a trailblazer in the biotech industry. In Arts, Culture, and Media, Lata Mangeshkar, one of India’s most beloved playback singers, remained a significant cultural icon through out her life. In Grassroots and Rural Development, there are Self-Help Groups (SHGs), where women have been at the forefront of the SHG movement in India, promoting financial independence and empowerment at the grassroots level.
In the Legal and Human Rights, there arenames like Justice Leila Seth, the first woman to become the Chief Justice of a state High Court in India, she contributed significantly to legal reforms and women’s rights. She also created history by becoming the first woman to achieve the top position in the London Bar exam of 1958. Indira Jaising is an advocate for women’s rights and a senior lawyer, she has worked extensively for the protection of human rights and gender justice. In 1986, she became the first woman to be designated a Senior Advocate by the Bombay High Court. In 2009, Jaising became the first female Additional Solicitor General of India.
In Health and Medicine, Dr. Padmavati Sivaramakrishna Iyer is Known as the first female cardiologist in India, who made significant contributions to cardiology. She was director of the National Heart Institute, Delhi, and the founder and president of the All India Heart Foundation. Dr. ViswanathanShanta, a renowned oncologist, dedicated her life to cancer research and treatment, significantly impacting the healthcare sector in India. She was the chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai. She is best known for her efforts towards making quality and affordable cancer treatment accessible to all patients in her country.
Post-independence, women in India have made substantial contributions across various fields, driving the country’s development and progress. Their roles have evolved from being mere participants to leaders and pioneers in their respective domains. The empowerment and participation of women in all sectors have not only enriched Indian society but also set a strong foundation for future generations to build upon. Their collective efforts continue to shape India’s path towards a more inclusive and progressive society.
Despite her achievements, women today still face persistent challenges. Although many have ascended to significant positions through sheer determination and hard work, societal attitudes have not fully evolved to recognize and respect their contributions equally. In numerous cases, women are still not treated on par with their male counterparts. This disparity underscores a pressing need for a more sensitive and equitable societal framework that acknowledges and supports women’s continuous struggle and contributions. Bridging this gap requires not only policy changes but also a profound shift in societal mindset to truly achieve gender equality.
(The author is Department of Tourism and Travel Management, Central University of Jammu)
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