The lesser-known women freedom fighters

As we enter the 78th year of our Independence, many do not have an idea of life under the British Raj, or we might have been more interested in and respectful of our freedom fighters.

Let me take this opportunity to highlight a few lesser-known women freedom fighters whose contributions were crucial in liberating India from British rule.

Matangini Hazra was an Indian freedom fighter from West Bengal. Born in 1870, she became active in the Independence movement during Gandhi’s Salt March. Known affectionately as “Gandhi Buri,” she led processions and encouraged civil disobedience. In 1942, during the Quit India Movement, she led a protest of 6,000 supporters. While advancing with the Indian flag, she was shot thrice by British police but kept chanting “Vande Mataram” until her last breath. Her sacrifice made her a symbol of courage and patriotism. Today, she is remembered as a martyr in India’s struggle for freedom.

A pioneering social reformer and freedom fighter, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay was also a cultural icon. She played a vital role in the Indian Independence movement, advocating for women’s rights and social reforms. Kamaladevi was instrumental in reviving Indian handicrafts, handlooms, and theatre, establishing institutions such as the All-India Handicrafts Board. Born in 1903, she was the first woman to be elected to a provincial legislature in British India. Her efforts helped preserve Indian arts and crafts, earning her the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan awards. Kamaladevi’s legacy inspires efforts towards cultural preservation and women’s empowerment in India.

Aruna Asaf Ali became widely known for hoisting the Indian National Congress flag during the Quit India Movement in 1942, despite the police crackdown. Her act of defiance made her a symbol of resistance against British rule. Aruna went underground, continuing her fight for independence through clandestine activities. After independence, she remained politically active, advocating for social justice and civil liberties. Aruna Asaf Ali was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, for her contributions to the freedom struggle and public service.

In 1907, Bhikaji Cama unfurled the first version of the Indian national flag at the International Socialist Conference in Stuttgart, Germany, symbolizing India’s struggle for freedom. She worked closely with revolutionaries, spreading awareness about India’s cause in Europe. Bhikaji also supported the oppressed and advocated for women’s rights. Her efforts made her a key figure in India’s fight against British rule, inspiring future generations of freedom fighters.

Tara Rani Srivastava is known for her role in the Quit India Movement of 1942. Along with her husband, Phulendu Babu, she led a protest march to hoist the Indian flag at the Siwan police station in Bihar. When the police shot her husband during the protest, Tara Rani bandaged his wounds and continued the march alone, even as he succumbed to his injuries. Her bravery and dedication to the cause of Independence made her a symbol of resilience and sacrifice. Tara Rani’s story is a testament to the pivotal role women played in India’s freedom struggle.

Kanaklata Barua was a young freedom fighter from Assam, born in 1924. When she was just 17 years old, she became a prominent figure in the Quit India Movement. On September 20, 1942, Kanaklata led a group of unarmed villagers to hoist the Indian flag at the Gohpur police station. Despite being warned by the British police, she fearlessly advanced with the flag, chanting patriotic slogans. She was shot dead by the police, but her bravery and sacrifice made her a martyr of the Indian independence movement. Kanaklata Barua remains an enduring symbol of youthful courage and determination in India's fight for freedom.

Lakshmi Sahgal was a prominent Indian freedom fighter and an officer in the Indian National Army (INA). A doctor by profession, she joined the INA, led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, and commanded its women’s regiment, the Rani of Jhansi Regiment. During World War II, Lakshmi Sahgal led troops in the struggle against British forces in Southeast Asia. After independence, she continued activism, working for women’s rights and social justice. In 1998, she was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for her contributions. Lakshmi Sahgal is remembered for her courage and dedication.

Due to time and space constraints, I had to limit this blog to only a few freedom fighters who helped India gain independence and become one of the prominent countries leading the world as it is today.

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