Q4: Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during gandhian Phase. (CSE Mains 2016) GS I

         Gandhiji was deeply inspired by “Tolstoy Farm” and the equal treatment of men and women in it. He organised his ashrams on these principles where there was “equal division of labour” and absence of hierarchical work. Everybody was to do every work allotted to them on a rotational basis.

        Gandhiji incorporated the same philosophy into freedom struggle. The Gandhian philosophy of satyagraha, non violence and love for truth made him believe that women would excel men in practicing them. He was convinced that women embodied these principles in their natural traits.

Gandhiji had immense belief in the capability of the masses and was convinced of their resolve to struggle. Women and men participated in equal measure under his leadership.

Paricipation of women in freedom struggle wasn’t limited to post Gandhi, but the phase witnessed a spike in women participation. 

   Some prominent women in freedom struggle were,

Before Gandhi:

• Rani Lakshmi Bhai of Jansi 1858
• Begum Hazrat Mahal-1858
• Annie Besant-Home Rule Leauge-1916(First woman president of INC)

After Gandhi:

• Sarojini Naidu-1st women president of Indian. National Congress in 1929 ( a period when many countries were yet to extend women suffrage)
• Vijaylakshmi Pandit-Participated in Non co operation movement under Gandhian leadership
• Kasturba Gandhi-Participated and lead Salt Satyagraha
• Aruna Asaf Ali-All India Mahila Congress, hoisted flag of Indian National Congress at the Gowalia Tank maidan in Bombay during the Quit India Movement
• Usha Mehta- operated an underground secret radio network during Quit India Movement 1942

Apart from them, many more took part in freedom struggle. Women actively participated in pamplet distribution, picketing, practicing satyagraha, and civil disobedience. They played a significant role in furthering the nationalist cause.