SAROJINI NAIDU

Sarojini Naidu was a significant figure in India’s history. She was born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, India. She played multiple roles in her life: she was an Indian independence activist, a poet, and a politician.

1. Contribution to Indian Freedom Movement:

–First Indian Woman President of INC: Sarojini Naidu made history by becoming the first Indian woman to lead the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1925, a position she held until 1928.

-Participated in Non-Cooperation Movement: She actively joined Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920 and faced multiple arrests for her involvement in the freedom struggle.

–Lead Salt Satyagraha: In 1930, she was chosen by Gandhi to lead the Salt Satyagraha, a peaceful protest against the British control of salt production in India. She famously led a march to the Dharasana Salt Works.

-Quit India Movement: During the Quit India Movement in 1942, she was arrested and spent 21 months in jail alongside Gandhi.

-Traveled Abroad to Raise Awareness: Sarojini Naidu traveled to countries like the United States and the United Kingdom to garner international support for India’s fight for independence. She represented India at international forums and spoke about both independence and women’s rights.

2. Contribution as a Politician:
–Second Round Table Conference: She accompanied Gandhi to London for the second session of the Round Table Conference in 1931, which aimed at cooperation between India and Britain but did not yield conclusive results.

–Governor of Uttar Pradesh: After India gained independence, she became the first woman to hold the position of governor in India, serving in Uttar Pradesh.

3. Other Contributions:
–A Renowned Poetess: Sarojini Naidu was a celebrated poet who wrote in English and Urdu. One of her most famous poems is “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad,” published in 1912. She authored other notable works like “The Golden Threshold (1905),” “The Bird of Time (1912),” and “The Broken Wing (1912).”

–Worked for Women’s Empowerment: Naidu was a strong advocate for women’s rights and actively worked towards empowering women in India. She was also a member of the All-India Women’s Conference, where she contributed to improving the status of women in the country.