National Women's Day 2025: Date, History And Significance

Every year on February 13, India celebrates National Women’s Day to honor the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a freedom fighter, poet, and social reformer. Known as the Nightingale of India, Naidu was a key figure in India’s freedom struggle and a strong advocate for women’s rights and gender equality. This day serves as a reminder of her remarkable contributions to Indian history and encourages women’s empowerment, leadership, and equal opportunities.

History and Significance of National Women’s Day

The Government of India designated February 13 as National Women’s Day to commemorate Sarojini Naidu’s contributions in various fields, including politics, literature, and social justice. Born in Hyderabad on February 13, 1879, she was a child prodigy who later became one of the most influential women in India’s struggle for independence.

Sarojini Naidu’s Role in India’s Freedom Struggle

She actively participated in the Indian Nationalist Movement and was a key supporter of Mahatma Gandhi.
In 1925, she became the first woman President of the Indian National Congress, a major milestone in Indian political history.
She played an essential role in movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement (1942), for which she was imprisoned multiple times.
After India gained independence, she became the first woman Governor of an Indian state, serving as the Governor of United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) from 1947 to 1949.

Her efforts in promoting women’s empowerment and political participation made her an inspiration for generations to come.

Sarojini Naidu: A Life of Achievements and Firsts

Sarojini Naidu was a woman of many firsts, breaking barriers in various fields:

First Woman President of the Indian National Congress (1925)
First Woman Governor of an Indian State (1947)
First Indian Woman to Address the British Parliament
Pioneer in Inter-Caste Marriages, having married Dr. Govindarajulu Naidu despite social restrictions.
First Indian Woman to Lead a Delegation to South Africa (1929) for the East African Indian Congress.

Her courage and determination paved the way for future generations of women leaders in India.

Sarojini Naidu’s Contribution to Literature

Apart from being a political leader, Sarojini Naidu was also a renowned poet. Her writing, filled with patriotism, nature, and Indian culture, earned her the title of “The Nightingale of India”.

Famous Works of Sarojini Naidu

The Golden Threshold (1905) – Her first collection of poems, showcasing her rich imagery and emotions.
The Bird of Time (1912) – Poems about freedom, hope, and human struggles.
The Broken Wing (1917) – A collection that included the famous poem “The Gift of India”, which paid tribute to Indian soldiers in World War I.
The Feather of the Dawn (Published in 1961, posthumously) – A collection of her unpublished poems, edited by her daughter Padmaja Naidu.

Her literary works remain an inspiration for poets and writers, reflecting India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

10 Lesser-Known Facts About Sarojini Naidu

Born in a Scholarly Family – Sarojini Naidu was born in Hyderabad to Aghornath Chattopadhyaya (a scientist and philosopher) and Barada Sundari Devi (a poetess).
A Child Prodigy – She topped the Matriculation Examination at Madras University at the age of 12.
Studied in England – At 16, she pursued higher education at King’s College, London, and later at Girton College, Cambridge.
Fought Against Social Norms – She married Dr. Govindarajulu Naidu at the age of 19, despite strong opposition due to inter-caste marriage restrictions.
Awarded the Kaisar-i-Hind Medal – She received this prestigious honor from the British Government for her work during the plague epidemic but later returned it in protest against the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.
Actively Participated in Salt Satyagraha – She played a vital role in Gandhi’s Dandi March (1930), leading women’s groups in protests against British rule.
Imprisoned for Freedom Struggle – She was arrested multiple times, including during the Quit India Movement (1942).
Represented India Globally – She led India’s delegation to the South African Indian Congress (1929) to fight for the rights of Indians in South Africa.
First Woman Governor of India – After India’s independence in 1947, she became the Governor of United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh).
Passed Away in Office – She died of a heart attack on March 2, 1949, while serving as Governor of Uttar Pradesh.