Savitribai Phule – Pioneer of Women’s Education

Savitribai Phule, born on January 3, 1831, in Maharashtra, was a trailblazer in women’s education and social reform in India. She became the first woman teacher in the country and dedicated her life to uplifting women and the marginalised. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently honoured her contributions, recognising her as a beacon of empowerment.

Early Life and Education

Savitribai was married at the age of 10 to Jyotirao Phule. He played important role in her education, teaching her at home and later enrolling her in a teachers’ training programme in Pune. This partnership was foundational in their joint efforts to challenge societal norms.

Establishment of Schools

In 1848, the Phules opened the first girls’ school in Bhidewada, Pune. This initiative faced severe opposition from society, particularly from upper-caste individuals who believed that educating girls would undermine national identity. Despite hostility, they continued to establish more schools for girls and lower castes.

Challenges Faced

Savitribai faced adversity, including physical violence and public humiliation. Upper-caste men would throw stones and mud at her as she walked to school. Undeterred, she famously remarked that such attacks felt like flowers to her, demonstrating her resilience.

Social Reforms

Beyond education, Savitribai was a fierce advocate for social reform. She established the Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha to support pregnant widows and fought against practices like child marriage and sati. She promoted inter-caste marriages and widow remarriage, challenging deep-rooted social norms.

Founding of Satyashodhak Samaj

In 1873, she co-founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, aimed at achieving social equality for all, regardless of caste or religion. This society promoted education and equality, rejecting traditional Brahmanical marriage rituals in favour of a pledge for social justice.

Literary Contributions

Savitribai was also a prolific writer. Her first poetry collection, Kavya Phule, was published in 1854. She continued to write and publish works that addressed social issues and advocated for women’s rights throughout her life.

Legacy and Death

Savitribai Phule’s legacy is deep. She was involved in relief efforts during the 1896 famine and the 1897 bubonic plague, ultimately succumbing to the disease while helping others. Her life was marked by courage, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the oppressed.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of Savitribai Phule in the Indian education system and its impact on women’s empowerment.
2. What were the social reforms initiated by Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule? Comment on their relevance .
3. Explain the significance of the Satyashodhak Samaj in the context of social justice movements in India.
4. What are the major barriers to women’s education in contemporary India? How do they compare to the challenges faced by Savitribai Phule?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of Savitribai Phule in the Indian education system and its impact on women’s empowerment.

1. First woman teacher in India, she established the first girls’ school in 1848, breaking societal norms.
2. Her efforts led to increased enrollment of girls in education, challenging patriarchal structures.
3. Promoted education for marginalized communities, including Dalits and lower castes, encouraging inclusivity.
4. Her resilience against social opposition inspired future generations of women educators and activists.
5. Contributed to a shift in societal perceptions about women’s roles, laying groundwork for future empowerment movements.

2. What were the social reforms initiated by Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule? Comment on their relevance.

1. Established Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha to support pregnant widows, addressing infanticide and social stigma.
2. Advocated for inter-caste marriages, widow remarriage, and eradication of child marriage and sati.
3. Founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, promoting social equity beyond caste and class hierarchies.
4. Relevance includes ongoing struggles against caste discrimination and women’s rights in India.
5. Their reforms laid the foundation for modern social justice movements, emphasizing equality and education.

3. Explain the significance of the Satyashodhak Samaj in the context of social justice movements in India.

1. Founded in 1873, it aimed to promote social equality and challenge caste-based discrimination.
2. Provided a platform for marginalized voices, encouraging a sense of community and collective action.
3. Encouraged education and awareness about social issues, empowering individuals to fight for their rights.
4. Its principles inspired subsequent movements for social justice, including anti-caste and feminist movements.
5. Continues to be a reference point for contemporary organizations advocating for equality and justice.

4. What are the major barriers to women’s education in contemporary India? How do they compare to the challenges faced by Savitribai Phule?

1. Contemporary barriers include poverty, cultural norms, safety concerns, and lack of infrastructure.
2. In Savitribai’s time, societal opposition and violence against women seeking education were prevalent.
3. Both eras face gender biases, but modern challenges also include digital divides and economic disparities.
4. While Savitribai faced physical violence, ’s issues often manifest as systemic and institutional barriers.
5. Despite progress, the fight for women’s education remains critical, echoing Savitribai’s struggles for empowerment.