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Recently on January 3, 2026, 195th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule marked by tributes from national leaders. Her legacy as India's first female teacher continues to inspire discussions on women's education and social reform.​
Early Life
- Born: January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, Satara district, Maharashtra
- Community: Mali (classified as OBC today)
- Marriage: At age 10, she married Jyotirao (Jyotiba) Phule, who later became her lifelong partner in reform.
- Initially denied formal education, she was taught by her husband and his friends, eventually completing teacher training in Pune and Ahmednagar.
Social Reform Work
- First Female Teacher of India: In 1848, Savitribai and Jyotiba Phule opened the first school for girls in Pune.
- She established multiple schools for girls and lower-caste children, defying orthodox opposition.
- Women’s Rights: Founded the Mahila Seva Mandal to empower women and fight gender inequality.
- Caste Equality: Worked against untouchability and caste-based discrimination, promoting dignity for all.
- Healthcare & Social Service: During the 1897 plague in Pune, she set up a clinic to treat patients. Tragically, she contracted the disease herself and died on March 10, 1897.
- Organizations: Active in Satyashodhak Samaj (Truth-Seekers’ Society), founded by Jyotiba Phule, which challenged caste hierarchies.
Literary Contributions
- Wrote poetry collections like “Kavya Phule” (1854) and “Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar” (1892), which emphasized equality, education, and compassion.
- Her writings blended reformist zeal with literary creativity, inspiring generations.
Legacy
- Remembered as a pioneer of women’s education in India and a symbol of courage against social oppression.
- Her vision continues to inspire movements for inclusive education, gender equality, and social justice.
- Leaders like PM Modi and CM Chandrababu Naidu have hailed her as a role model whose contributions remain timeless.
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