Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase. (12.5 marks, 200 words)

The role of women in the freedom struggle, particularly during the Gandhian phase, stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment and pivotal contributions to India’s quest for independence. Mahatma Gandhi, a central figure in the Indian independence movement, recognized the integral role that women played in shaping the destiny of the nation. During this transformative period, women emerged as formidable agents of change, breaking away from traditional societal norms to actively participate in various forms of civil disobedience, protests, and nonviolent movements. The Gandhian philosophy of nonviolence and Satyagraha resonated deeply with women, providing them with a platform to assert their rights and challenge oppressive colonial rule. Women like Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, and Aruna Asaf Ali, among many others, became iconic symbols of resilience and fortitude. Their involvement ranged from leading marches, organizing satyagrahas, and participating in salt marches to advocating for social reforms and emphasizing the importance of self-reliance. Through their relentless efforts, women not only contributed significantly to the freedom struggle but also paved the way for a more inclusive and egalitarian post-independence India. Their sacrifices and determination continue to inspire generations, highlighting the indispensable role of women in the Gandhian phase of the Indian freedom movement.

Tag: The Freedom struggle.   

Decoding the Question:   

• In the Introduction, try to write the importance of women’s participation in the National Movement.   
• In Body, emphasis the role of women in the various freedom struggles especially during the Gandhian phase.    
• Conclude with the how the role of women in the national movement was an important part of it.   

Answer:    

The freedom struggle in India symbolised a cauldron in which various sections of society contributed according to their potential to create a flavour of nationalism. In this context the role of women in India’s freedom struggle, particularly during the Gandhian phase, was instrumental and transformative. Women played diverse roles, from active participation in protests and civil disobedience movements to leadership positions and the reshaping of social and cultural norms. Their contributions were crucial in shaping the course of the independence movement and in paving the way for greater gender equality.  

The role played by women in the freedom struggle before the Gandhian phase:  

• Bhima Bai Holkar fought bravely against the British colonel Malcolm and defeated him in guerrilla warfare.  
• Maharani Velu Nachiyar (1730 – 1796) bravely fought with the British army decades before the 1857 Revolt. She probably remains the only queen to have defeated the British army successfully.  
• Gauri Parvati Bai who was queen of Travancore carried out reforms and emphasized on the need for education of girls thus in many ways helping women elevate from social and educational stigma.  
• The role of Rani of Ramgarh, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Tapasvini Maharani in the War of Independence (the Great Revolt) of 1857 was commendable.  
• During the Swadeshi campaign their activities were limited to boycott of foreign clothand picketing of liquor shops. A nationalistic cult around Bharat Mata (mother India) started to emerge which further necessitated the role of women.  
• In the second phase of women participation, the idea of Home Rule and constitutionalism became dominant. Some western women played a significant role in this. Annie Besant, who became the first woman president of Indian National Congress, launched the Home Rule movement.  

The role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase:    

1. Mass Mobilization and Non-Cooperation Movement: Women participated enthusiastically in Mahatma Gandhi’s call for non-cooperation with the British government. They boycotted foreign goods, picketed liquor shops, and actively joined protests, making significant contributions to the mass mobilization efforts. 
2. Civil Disobedience Movement: Women’s participation in the Civil Disobedience Movement was notable. They marched, demonstrated, and courted arrest alongside their male counterparts. Salt marches, protests against salt taxes, and the defiance of forest laws were marked by their presence. 
3. Salt Satyagraha: Women, including Kasturba Gandhi and Sarojini Naidu, played key roles in the Salt Satyagraha. They participated in the famous Dandi March led by Gandhi and demonstrated against the salt laws. 
4. Boycott of Foreign Cloth and Khadi Movement: Women played a significant role in promoting khadi (hand-spun and handwoven cloth) and boycotting foreign cloth. They actively participated in spinning campaigns, contributing to the economic self-sufficiency movement. 
5. Women’s Empowerment and Social Reform: The freedom struggle provided a platform for women to challenge traditional norms and assert their rights. Participation in public activities empowered women, prompting social reform and advocacy for gender equality. 
6. Leadership and Representation: Many women emerged as prominent leaders during the Gandhian phase. Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Nehru, Aruna Asaf Ali, and Sucheta Kripalani were notable figures who held leadership positions and played key roles in the struggle. 
7. Women’s Organizations and Initiatives: Women formed various organizations, such as the All India Women’s Conference (AIWC), to address social issues and contribute to the freedom movement. These organizations advocated for women’s rights and welfare. 
8. Sacrifice and Resilience: Women displayed extraordinary resilience and commitment, even in the face of repression and violence. Their willingness to endure arrests, imprisonment, and other hardships made a lasting impact on the movement. 
9. Empowering the Grassroots: Women’s involvement in the freedom struggle extended to the grassroots level. They mobilized communities, organized meetings, and spread awareness about the importance of independence. 
10. Contribution to Socio-Economic Changes: Women’s participation in the freedom struggle also led to changes in social attitudes. Their involvement challenged traditional gender roles and contributed to shifts in societal norms. 
11. Nationalist and Feminist Agendas: Women’s participation was often intertwined with both nationalist and feminist agendas. They worked toward not only political independence but also gender equality and social justice. 
12. Legacy and Inspiration: The contributions of women during the Gandhian phase left a lasting legacy. Their involvement paved the way for greater women’s representation in post-independence India and inspired future generations of women leaders. 

The story of women’s participation in India’s freedom struggle is the story of making bold choices, finding themselves on the streets, inside jails and in legislatures, all of which empowered them in a whole variety of ways.  In a book called Mother India, the writer Katherine Mayo criticized the Hindu men and slave-like condition of women within the family. Nationalists and reformers were compelled to focus on families and making the domestic space non violent. Also this criticism bound Indian men and women together to national honour.  

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