Independence Day special- Women leaders who played a pivotal role in India's independence

India got independence in 1947 due to the struggles of many freedom fighters. Not just men,  Women freedom fighters too played a pivotal role in initiating many movements and taking our country towards the path of freedom. On this 75th Independence Day, it’s time to pay a tribute to all the freedom fighters who lost their lives in getting India free from British rule and became an inspiration to all the Indians!

Sarojini Naidu:

Born on 13th February 1879 in Hyderabad, Sarojini Naidu played an important role during the times of independence. She was an Indian activist and was the first Indian woman to become the president of the Indian National Congress. Sarojini Naidu’s beautiful poems also got her the title of the ‘Nightingale of India.’ She has played one of the most crucial roles in getting India free from the foreign rulers. She was a major part in the Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement. That’s not it, Sarojini Naidu has played a tremendous role in standing for women’s rights like Rights of Widows, Right to Vote and Right to Equality.

Source: tentaran

Rani Lakshmi Bai:

Every child of the country has been privileged enough to read about the great struggles of Rani Laxmi Bai to take India towards the path of Independence. Born on 19th November 1828, Rani Laxmi Bai is one of the most courageous freedom fighters. Her role in the 1857 Indian  Revolt has been extremely inspiring and an honour for us to read about. She fought against the British army when they came to Jhansi to capture it. She with all her bravery refused, fought and was able to capture the fort of Gwalior. Rani Laxmi Bai died on 18th June 1858 dressed as a soldier while fighting against British rulers.

Source: thefamouspeople

Usha Mehta:

Usha Mehta was born on 25th March 1920 in Gujarat and was one of the leading Gandhians. She was just 8 years old when she protested against the Simon Commission. Usha Mehta decided to give up all the luxuries and live life according to the Gandhian teachings. Usha Mehta is renowned for her bravery organising Congress Radio and spreading news when the country was fighting against Britishers. 

Source: indiatimes

Bhikaji Cama:

Also known as Madame Cama, Bhikaji Cama was born on 24th September 1861. She was an Indian activist and played a pivotal role in Independence. She was the first person to unfurl the Indian Flag at the International Socialist Congress in Germany in 1907. She started working for the Indian National Congress and met many great freedom fighters during her journey. She played a noted role in providing care to the people affected by the Bombay Famine of 1896. She also co-founded the ‘Paris Indian Society’ and gave shelter to many activists. 

Source: starmommy

Laxmi Sahgal:

Born on 24th October 1914, Laxmi Sahgal was a prominent activist during the Independence struggle. She was known for her courage and bravery and led the Indian National Army like a lioness! Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose not only intended to take men but also women in his Azad Hind Fauz. The bravery of Laxmi Sahgal impressed Netaji and she was given a chance to lead the Rani Jhansi Regiment. Henceforth she was honoured as Captain Laxmi!

Source: veethi