Biography of Savitribai Phule: The First Female Teacher of India and Pioneer of Social Justice

INDC Network : Biography : Savitribai Phule: The Trailblazer of Women's Education in India

Savitribai Phule, a name that resonates with courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to social justice, stands as a pivotal figure in the history of India. Born in a time when the education of women was a radical idea, Savitribai Phule not only became India’s first female teacher but also a pioneer in the fight against caste and gender discrimination. Her life is a testament to the power of education and social reform in transforming society.

Early Life and Background : Savitribai Phule was born on January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, a small village in the Satara district of Maharashtra, India. She was born into a family of farmers belonging to the Mali community, which was considered a backward caste. Her early life was marked by the struggles typical of those born into lower castes in India, where access to education and basic human rights were severely limited. Despite these hardships, Savitribai was determined to rise above the oppressive norms of her time.

At the age of nine, Savitribai was married to Jyotirao Phule, who was just 13 years old at the time. This was not uncommon in 19th-century India, where child marriage was prevalent. However, what set this marriage apart was the progressive outlook of Jyotirao Phule, who played a crucial role in shaping Savitribai’s future. Recognizing her intelligence and eagerness to learn, Jyotirao took it upon himself to educate Savitribai, a rare practice in an era when educating women was considered taboo.

The Journey of Education and Social Reform : Savitribai’s education began under the tutelage of her husband, who taught her to read and write. This marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership between Savitribai and Jyotirao, both as life partners and as comrades in the battle against social evils. Savitribai's quest for knowledge did not stop with basic literacy; she pursued formal education and received training as a teacher at a time when female literacy was almost non-existent in India.

In 1848, Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule took a revolutionary step by opening the first school for girls in Bhide Wada, Pune. This was the first school in India to be run by Indians for Indian girls, and it marked a watershed moment in the history of Indian education. Savitribai became the first female teacher of this school, challenging the deeply entrenched patriarchal norms of the time.

The school faced immense opposition from society. Orthodox elements were enraged by the idea of educating girls, who were traditionally confined to domestic roles. Savitribai was often harassed and even physically assaulted by people who threw cow dung and stones at her as she made her way to school. However, she remained undeterred, driven by a profound sense of purpose. Her efforts slowly began to bear fruit as more and more girls, including those from marginalized communities, started attending the school.

Championing the Cause of Social Justice : Savitribai Phule’s work extended beyond the realm of education. She and Jyotirao were deeply committed to the eradication of social evils such as untouchability, child marriage, and the exploitation of widows. They opened several schools not only for girls but also for children from lower castes, challenging the rigid caste system that dictated access to education and opportunities.

In 1852, Savitribai and Jyotirao opened a care center called Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha, aimed at preventing infanticide and providing shelter to pregnant Brahmin widows who were often ostracized by society. This initiative was particularly groundbreaking, as it addressed the stigma and hardships faced by widows, offering them support and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Savitribai Phule was also a staunch advocate of women’s rights. She organized several meetings and gatherings where women could discuss their issues and seek solutions collectively. These meetings were some of the earliest examples of women’s empowerment in India, providing a platform for women to voice their concerns and demand their rights.

Literary Contributions : Savitribai Phule was not only an educator and social reformer but also a prolific writer and poet. She used her writings as a tool to express her thoughts on social issues, particularly the plight of women and the oppressed classes. Her poems often carried a message of empowerment, urging women to break free from the shackles of patriarchy and seek education as a means of liberation.

Her collection of poems, "Kavya Phule," published in 1854, reflects her deep understanding of the social fabric of her time and her desire to see it transformed. Her poetry and writings remain a source of inspiration, highlighting the power of words in bringing about social change.

Later Years and Legacy : The later years of Savitribai Phule’s life were marked by continued activism. She and Jyotirao adopted a son, Yashwantrao, who carried forward their legacy of social reform. Even after Jyotirao's death in 1890, Savitribai continued to work tirelessly for the causes they had championed together.

During the bubonic plague in 1897, Savitribai Phule set up a clinic to treat those affected by the epidemic. She personally took care of patients, demonstrating her selflessness and commitment to humanity. Tragically, she contracted the disease herself while serving others and passed away on March 10, 1897.

Savitribai Phule’s legacy is profound and enduring. She laid the foundation for women's education in India and broke barriers that had stood for centuries. Her work paved the way for subsequent generations of women to seek education and claim their rightful place in society. Today, her contributions are widely recognized, and she is remembered as a pioneer of social justice and education.

Conclusion : Savitribai Phule’s life is a story of unparalleled courage and dedication. She challenged the deeply entrenched social norms of her time and worked tirelessly to uplift the marginalized sections of society. Her contributions to education, social reform, and women's empowerment continue to inspire millions. As India continues to progress in the fields of education and social justice, the legacy of Savitribai Phule serves as a guiding light, reminding us of the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what is right.