By Shree Sauparnika V

In the 19th century, India was grappling with numerous social issues, including caste discrimination, gender inequality, and a lack of access to education, especially for marginalised communities. At this critical juncture, two remarkable individuals emerged as champions of reform: Savitribai Phule and her husband, Jyotirao Phule. Their tireless efforts towards education and social reform have left an indelible mark on Indian society and continue to inspire countless individuals today.

Early Life 

Jyotirao Phule was born in 1827. Belonging to an oppressed caste, he was exposed to the harsh realities of caste discrimination during his formative years. His childhood experiences fuelled his desire to bring change in society. When he married Savitribai, he taught her to read and write and inspired in her, the same fire for social reform. Together, they formed a partnership, not just in marriage but also in their fight against social injustice.

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Education for all

In a groundbreaking move, the Phules opened the first girls’ school in Pune in 1848, a radical idea at a time when women’s education was frowned upon. Savitribai trained to be a teacher and soon became the first woman teacher of India! She faced immense opposition, including threats and social ostracism, but her determination was unwavering. This school served as a beacon of hope, empowering young girls and challenging societal norms. Jyotirao, who deeply supported his wife, played an instrumental role in promoting the cause of education for all, emphasising that education was the key to liberation from social bondage.

The Phules were also advocates for educating children from so-called ‘lower caste’ communities. They believed that knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. In 1851, they established a school for children from oppressed castes, putting their principles into action. Their collective efforts helped lay the foundation for an inclusive educational movement that would continue to grow and evolve in India.

Social Reformation 

Beyond education, the Phules were staunch advocates for social reforms. They were aware that education alone wouldn’t eradicate deep-rooted social issues. Jyotirao was an outspoken critic of the caste system and worked tirelessly to promote equality. He emphasised that society must collectively strive to create a more inclusive environment for all individuals. His writings, including ‘Gulamgiri’ (Slavery), critiqued the oppressive caste hierarchy and called for awareness and change.

Savitribai, too, engaged in numerous social initiatives. Alongside her husband, she founded the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Seekers of Truth) in 1873, which aimed to promote social equality and help marginalised communities. They organised rallies and undertook initiatives that challenged traditional norms, including advocating for widow remarriage and denouncing child marriage.

The Impact

Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule’s contributions played a significant role in developing the Indian social reform movement. Their vision of an inclusive education and an equal society have inspired generations of reformers and activists. Savitribai is now hailed as one of the first feminists in India, an iconic figure in the battle for women’s rights.

All in all, Savitribai and Jyotirao Phule’s legacy is an enduring reminder that education and social reform are powerful tools in combating inequality. They paved the way for future generations and initiated a movement, calling on us to uphold the values of dignity, equality, and justice for all. Their story illustrates the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, and their vision continues to inspire fresh waves of change across India.

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