Cornelia Sorabji emerged as a trailblazer in the spheres of women’s empowerment, legal advocacy and social reform in India. Defying the strict gender norms of the late 19th and 20th centuries, she achieved the notable feat of becoming first female lawyer of India. Her steadfast dedication to education and relentless advocacy for the rights of marginalized women left a lasting impact on the legal and societal landscape in India.
Birth date; 15th November 1866
Birth place: Nashik, India
Cornelia Sorabji was born into a progressive and education-focused family. Her father, Reverend Sorabji Karsedji, had converted from Zoroastrianism to Christianity and was a Christian missionary. Her mother, Francina Ford, was deeply committed to girl’s education and social welfare. Sorabji grew up in Belgaum and Pune, where he received her early education. She later enrolled in Deccan College, becoming its first female student.
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Sorabji’s academic achievements were remarkable. She graduated from Bombay University as the first Indian woman, earning a first-class degree in literature. Despite her academic prowess, she faced gender-based obstacles when seeking a government scholarship for further studies in England. Undaunted, Sorabji embarked on a journey that would make her a symbol of resilience and determination.
Cornelia Sorabji was not just a legal pioneer; she was deeply committed to social reform and women’s empowerment. Her approach to social change was cautious, emphasizing the importance of education from all women, believing that political reform alone would not suffice until women were educated.
Sorabji’s involvement extended to various social service organizations, including the National Council for Women in India, the Federation of University Women and the Bengal League of Social Service for Women. While she initially supported the campaign for Indian independence, her views were shifted by the late 1920s and she actively promoted support for the British Empire.
In addition to her legal and social work, Sorabji was a prolific writer. She authored numerous books, short stories and articles, addressing topics ranging from child welfare to Indian tales and women’s experiences. Some of her notable publications include “Love and Life beyond the Purdah” (1901), “Sun-Babies: Studies in the Child-life of India” (1904) and “India Calling: The Memories of Cornelia Sorabji” (1934).
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Cornelia Sorabji, first female lawyer in India, broke gender barriers, championed justice and empowered women in the late 19th century and early 20th century.
Cornelia Sorabji, born on 15th Novemeber 1866 in Nashik, India, was a trailblazing figure in the history of women’s empowerment, law and social reform in India.
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