Pandita Ramabai: Women’s Rights & Education, Social Reform, and Philanthropy

Pandita Ramabai: Champion of Women’s Rights & Education

Pandita Ramabai, a remarkable woman, was born on April 23, 1858, in Canara District, present-day Karnataka. She was a trailblazing social activist and educator who challenged societal norms and tirelessly advocated for women’s rights and education.  In this article, we look at Pandita Ramabai’s life and contributions as a true trailblazer of her time.

Pandita Ramabai: Scholar’s Journey to Sanskrit Brilliance

• Ramabai was born as Rama Dongre into a Marathi Brahmin family, and her thirst for knowledge was fostered by her father, a Sanskrit scholar who taught her the language at a young age. 
• Following the tragic death of her parents during the 1877 famine, Ramabai embarked on a journey with her brother, eventually gaining national recognition as a scholar.
• Her scholarly reputation spread to Calcutta, where she was invited to give a lecture at the University of Calcutta. 
• For her profound knowledge and interpretations of Sanskrit texts, she has bestowed the title of ‘Pandita’ and later ‘Saraswati’.

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Pandita Ramabai: Defying Norms in Love and Loss

• Ramabai defied social norms by marrying a Bengali lawyer, Bipin Behari Medhvi, in 1880. 
• Their marriage was a civil wedding, defying social norms at the time. Manorama was born to the couple. In 1882, Ramabai’s husband died, leaving her a young widow.

Advocacy For Women’s Education And Social Reform By Pandita Ramabai: Championing Women’s Education Reform

• Ramabai founded the Arya Mahila Samaj (Arya Women’s Society) in Pune after her husband passed away. 
• The primary goal of this society was to educate women and combat the widespread practice of child marriage. 
• Her tireless efforts drew the attention of the Indian government, which established a commission to investigate educational issues in 1882. 
• Ramabai testified in front of the commission, arguing for the appointment of female school inspectors and the admission of Indian women to medical schools. 
• Her recommendations had a far-reaching impact and even reached Queen Victoria’s ears, prompting Lady Dufferin to establish the Women’s Medical Movement.

International Endeavors And Philanthropy By Pandita Ramabai: Global Advocate for Women’s Education

• Ramabai traveled throughout India, giving speeches about the importance of women’s education. 
• She went to England to study medicine in 1883, and while there, she became a Christian. 
• Her travels also took her to the United States, where she attended Anandibai Joshi’s graduation as the first Indian woman doctor. 
• Ramabai also dedicated her time to writing and translating numerous books.

Recognition And Legacy Of Pandita Ramabai: Legacy of Social Change and Recognition

• When Ramabai returned to India in 1889, she established the ‘Sharada Sadan’ and the Mukti Mission, which were dedicated to educating and supporting child widows. 
• Her charitable efforts, however, were met with accusations of using these organizations as a front for religious conversions.
• Despite the difficulties, Ramabai’s unrelenting devotion to social change was recognized, and the British government awarded her the Kaiser-i-Hind medal in 1919. 
• Ramabai died on April 5, 1922, barely nine months after her daughter passed. The Indian government honored her memory by releasing a commemorative stamp in her honor in 1989.

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Conclusion

Pandita Ramabai’s life and achievements continue to inspire future generations, demonstrating the importance of education, tenacity, and activism for women’s rights. Her unrelenting commitment to question established conventions and elevate underprivileged people, particularly women, has far-reaching consequences. Let us remember Pandita Ramabai as a real pioneer who committed herself to the quest for female equality, education, and social justice.

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