Answer: 

Introduction:

Women played a vital role in the Indian freedom struggle, and their involvement became particularly prominent during the Gandhian phase. Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and satyagraha (passive resistance) resonated with women across India, inspiring them to actively participate in the struggle for independence.

Body:

Listed below are some key aspects of women’s involvement during the Gandhian phase:

• Mass mobilization: Women participated in large numbers in various protests, demonstrations, and non-cooperation activities, contributing to the mass mobilization of the Indian population against British rule.
• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934): Women were actively involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement, which included the famous Salt March or Dandi March. They participated in the production and distribution of contraband salt, defying the British monopoly.
• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): During the Non-Cooperation Movement, women played a crucial role in promoting swadeshi (indigenous) products and boycotting British goods. They actively spun khadi (handwoven cloth) on charkhas (spinning wheels), which became a symbol of self-reliance and defiance against British rule.
• Leadership roles: Women leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Aruna Asaf Ali, Kamala Nehru, Annie Besant, and Kasturba Gandhi emerged as prominent figures during the freedom struggle. They led protests, organized meetings, and inspired other women to join the movement. Many women were also involved in the Indian National Congress and other political organizations, advocating for women’s rights and social reforms.
• Revolutionary activities: Some women, like Bhikaji Cama and Durga Devi Vohra, participated in revolutionary activities and supported armed resistance against British rule.
• Social reforms and women’s empowerment: Gandhi advocated for women’s education, the abolition of child marriage, and widow remarriage, emphasizing the importance of women’s participation in the struggle for both political and social emancipation.
• Quit India Movement (1942): Women played an active role in the Quit India Movement, organizing processions, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience. They also filled leadership positions when many male leaders were arrested, ensuring the continuity of the movement.

Conclusion:

The Gandhian phase of the Indian freedom struggle saw significant participation from women, who made valuable contributions in various capacities. Their involvement not only strengthened the movement but also laid the groundwork for gender equality and social reforms in post-independence India.

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