February 13, 2024 marks the 145th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a distinguished figure in India’s struggle for independence and a celebrated poet known as the “Nightingale of India.” This day is also recognized as the National Women’s Day as she played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights. Born into a Bengali family in Hyderabad in 1879, Sarojini Naidu’s contributions to Indian politics, literature, and women’s rights are remembered and celebrated across the nation. As the first Governor of the United Provinces and a prominent poet, Naidu’s contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s history. Let us delve into the life and legacy of this remarkable woman.
Date of birth: 13th February 1879 |
Place of Birth: Sarojini Chattopadhyay |
Spouse: Govindarajulu Naidu |
Children: 5 |
Nicknames: “Nightingale of India,” “Bharata Kokila” and “ Bulbul-e-Hind” |
Death: 2nd March 1949 |
Place of Death: Hyderabad, British State |
Sarojini Naidu was born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, into a Bengali family. Her father, Aghorenath Chattopadhyay, was a distinguished scholar and the principal of Nizam College. From a young age, Naidu exhibited exceptional academic prowess, passing her matriculation examination with the highest rank at the age of twelve.
Naidu pursued her higher education in England, attending King’s College, London, and later Girton College, Cambridge. Immersed in the intellectual milieu of Britain, she encountered the suffragist movement and became acquainted with the Aesthetic and Decadent artistic movements.
In 1898, Naidu married Govindaraju Naidu, a physician she met during her time in England. Their marriage, an inter-caste union, was considered groundbreaking and scandalous at the time. Despite societal challenges, their union was harmonious, blessed with five children. Their daughter Padmaja, like her mother, became actively involved in India’s struggle for independence.
Naidu’s literary prowess earned her the title of the “Nightingale of India.” Her poetry, characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality, resonated deeply with the Indian nationalist sentiment. Published in 1912, “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad” remains one of her most celebrated works.
Simultaneously, Naidu emerged as a prominent political voice, advocating for India’s independence and women’s rights. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance, she became a staunch supporter of the Indian National Congress. Naidu’s oratory skills and impassioned speeches galvanized support for the nationalist cause across the country.
Naidu played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights within the nationalist movement. She stressed the integral role of women in India’s struggle for independence, emphasizing that true national progress was contingent upon gender equality. In 1917, she co-founded the Women’s Indian Association, providing a platform for women to voice their concerns and demand their rights.
Despite facing resistance, Naidu persistently campaigned for women’s suffrage, both within India and abroad. Her unwavering commitment to gender equality paved the way for future generations of Indian women.
Aligned with Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent resistance, Naidu actively participated in various civil disobedience movements against British rule. She joined Gandhi’s Salt Satyagraha in 1930, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to India’s freedom struggle.
Throughout her life, Naidu endured multiple arrests and imprisonments for her involvement in the Quit India Movement and other nationalist activities. Her courage and resilience in the face of adversity inspired countless Indians to join the fight for independence.
Sarojini Naidu passed away from cardiac arrest on March 2, 1949, after experiencing deteriorating health upon her return from New Delhi in February. She is celebrated as one of India’s feminist icons, with her birthday, February 13, honored as Women’s Day. Composer Helen Searles Westbrook immortalized her poetry in the song “Invincible.” The Golden Threshold at the University of Hyderabad and Asteroid 5647 Sarojininaidu pay tribute to her enduring legacy. Google India honored her 135th birth anniversary with a Doodle in 2014.
Here are some of the famous quotes given by the Nightingale of India, Sarojini Naidu:
Q1. When was Sarojini Naidu born?
Q2. What is Sarojini Naidu’s nickname?
Q3. Where did Sarojini Naidu pursue her higher education?What political party did Sarojini Naidu support?
Q4. What organization did Sarojini Naidu co-found in 1917?
Q5. What movement did Sarojini Naidu join in 1930, led by Gandhi?
Q6. When did Sarojini Naidu pass away?
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