Savitribai Phule Jayanti observed under National BC Dal
Savitribai Phule remains a symbol of the struggle for equality: Dundra Kumaraswamy
The birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, India’s first woman teacher and a pioneering social reformer, was observed across Telangana on Saturday.
As part of the programme, floral tributes were paid to the portrait of Savitribai Phule by Mr. Dundra Kumaraswamy, National President of the National BC Dal and Chairman of the BC Reservations Achievement Coordination JAC.
Members of the BC State Committee, including Rajesh Yadav, along with party leaders and activists, participated in the event.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Kumaraswamy said that Savitribai Phule had earned a permanent place in history as a woman who fought for equality in a society deeply entrenched in inequality. He said her birth anniversary was an important occasion to remember her life, services and ideals.
Recalling her contribution to education, he said that at a time when women’s education was considered impossible, Savitribai Phule transformed that belief into reality through courage and determination. By establishing the first school for girls in India, she highlighted the transformative power of education and brought about a revolutionary change in the lives of women, he said.
Mr. Kumaraswamy noted that she worked with an unwavering resolve to ensure access to education for marginalised sections, including women and those subjected to untouchability. Despite facing social hostility, humiliation, criticism and even physical attacks, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her principles.
He said Savitribai Phule played an active role in the Satyashodhak Samaj founded by Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and fought against the caste system and social evils such as child marriage, superstition, sati and untouchability, while advocating the rights of oppressed communities.
Highlighting her role in women’s empowerment, he said she established the Mahila Seva Mandal and worked consistently for social reform. Her lifelong struggle for the rights of backward and weaker sections, farmers, workers and women made her a people’s leader of enduring relevance, he added.
Savitribai Phule remained committed to her ideals until her last breath, Mr. Kumaraswamy said, adding that her life continues to inspire millions and serves as a guiding light for future generations.
