Sarojini Naidu: Advocated Women’s Suffrage, Education, First Woman President of Indian National Congress

 

Sarojini Naidu: Advocated Women’s Suffrage, Education, First Woman President of Indian National Congress

Introduction

Sarojini Naidu (1879–1949), fondly called the “Nightingale of India,” was a poet, freedom fighter, and champion of women’s rights. Born in Hyderabad, she blended lyrical poetry with fiery activism, advocating for women’s suffrage, education, and India’s independence. As the first woman president of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1925, she broke gender barriers, inspiring millions. This note delves into the reasons behind her activism, the course of her contributions, and the lasting impact of her work.

Reasons for Inception

Sarojini’s activism was rooted in her progressive upbringing and the socio-political climate of colonial India. Born to Aghorenath Chattopadhyay, a reformist educator, and Varada Sundari, a poet, she was encouraged to pursue intellectual and creative pursuits. At 12, she topped the Madras University matriculation exam, earning a scholarship to study in England. Her exposure to the British suffrage movement during her studies at King’s College, London, and Girton College, Cambridge, inspired her to fight for women’s political rights in India.

The early 20th-century nationalist movement, with its call for self-rule, provided a platform for her activism. The lack of women’s voting rights and limited access to education in colonial India, coupled with oppressive customs like child marriage, fueled her resolve. Her interactions with leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Annie Besant, and Mahatma Gandhi deepened her commitment to women’s empowerment as part of the broader struggle for independence.

Course of Her Efforts

Sarojini’s activism began with her oratory and poetry, which she used to inspire patriotic fervor. In 1904, she joined the Indian National Congress, delivering speeches on women’s rights and independence. Her poetic works, like The Golden Threshold (1905) and The Bird of Time (1912), celebrated Indian culture and rallied support for the freedom struggle.

In 1917, she co-founded the Women’s Indian Association (WIA) with Annie Besant and Muthulakshmi Reddy, advocating for women’s suffrage. That year, she led a delegation to meet Edwin Montagu, the Secretary of State for India, demanding voting rights for women. Her eloquent advocacy helped secure provincial resolutions for women’s franchise, with Madras granting voting rights in 1921. She traveled to London in 1919 as part of the Home Rule League, furthering the suffrage cause internationally.

Sarojini’s leadership peaked in 1925 when she became the first Indian woman president of the INC at its Kanpur session. Her presidency was a “tribute to Indian womanhood,” amplifying women’s roles in the freedom struggle. During Gandhi’s Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), she persuaded him to include women in the Salt March, leading protests and enduring imprisonment. Her organizational skills shone as she coordinated women’s participation in picketing and boycotts.

In education, Sarojini advocated for women’s access to schools and colleges, speaking at conferences like the Indian National Social Conference (1908). She emphasized education as a tool for empowerment, challenging patriarchal norms.

Results and Impact

Sarojini’s efforts bore significant fruit. Her suffrage advocacy led to women gaining voting rights in provinces like Madras (1921) and Bengal (1925), culminating in universal adult suffrage under India’s Constitution in 1950. Her leadership in the INC inspired women to enter politics, with figures like Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit following her path. As Governor of Uttar Pradesh (1947–1949), she became India’s first woman governor, symbolizing women’s rising political stature.

Her educational advocacy increased awareness of girls’ education, contributing to higher female literacy rates post-independence. Her poetry, infused with nationalist and feminist themes, fostered cultural pride and inspired generations. Works like “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad” remain literary treasures, celebrating India’s heritage.

Sarojini’s role in the freedom struggle empowered women to participate actively, challenging stereotypes about their capabilities. Her international advocacy, including speeches at global suffrage conferences, elevated India’s women’s movement on the world stage. The WIA, under her influence, continued to champion women’s rights post-independence.

Her legacy endures in India’s democratic framework, where women’s voting rights are a cornerstone. The INC’s recognition of women leaders owes much to her trailblazing presidency. Her life inspires modern feminists and activists, proving that words and actions can reshape history.

Conclusion

Sarojini Naidu was a melody of courage and compassion, weaving poetry and activism to uplift women and free India. Her advocacy for suffrage, education, and leadership in the INC transformed societal norms, leaving a legacy of equality and inspiration. Her life reminds us that a single voice, fueled by passion, can echo across generations, changing the world.