The story of India’s independence is incomplete without acknowledging the courage and determination of women in Indian freedom struggle. From Rani Lakshmi Bai to Sarojini Naidu, Annie Besant to Kasturba Gandhi, countless women stood shoulder to shoulder with men, sacrificing comfort, family, and even their lives for the larger cause of independence. Their role was not limited to support; they led movements, addressed public gatherings, challenged the colonial government, and even took up arms. The participation of women in Indian freedom struggle not only strengthened the national movement but also laid the foundation for gender equality in modern India.

Early Contribution of Women in Indian Freedom Struggle

India has a long history of brave women who resisted oppression and injustice. Even before Gandhi’s mass movements, leaders like Rani Lakshmi Bai and Begum Hazrat Mahal emerged as symbols of courage. Their sacrifices inspired later generations of women in Indian freedom struggle to take active roles in political, social, and revolutionary activities.

Women in Indian Freedom Struggle During the Non-Cooperation Movement

Limited Initial Role

When the Non-Cooperation Movement began in 1920 under Gandhi’s leadership, the role of women in Indian freedom struggle was initially limited to boycotts and swadeshi. They were encouraged to boycott foreign goods and promote Indian-made products.

Prominent Women Leaders

Despite the limited scope, many women emerged as powerful voices. Sarojini Naidu, Begum Hasrat Mohani, Basanti Devi, and Sarala Devi Chaudhurani addressed large gatherings, encouraging women to contribute to the Tilak Swaraj Fund and embrace swadeshi.

• Basanti Devi (wife of C.R. Das) became a symbol of courage. She sold khadi on the streets of Calcutta, led the Bengal Congress, and co-founded the Nari Karma Mandir to train women freedom fighters.
  
• Bi Amman, mother of the Ali Brothers, became one of the earliest Muslim women leaders. She addressed women’s gatherings, supported the Khilafat Movement, and promoted Hindu-Muslim unity.
  

Rashtriya Stree Sangh

The formation of Rashtriya Stree Sangh was a milestone, connecting women with the national cause. Its members promoted khadi in Bombay and organized strikes during the Prince of Wales’ visit in 1921. These initiatives showed how women in Indian freedom struggle were beginning to move from the private to the public sphere.

Women in Indian Freedom Struggle During the Civil Disobedience Movement

Protest Against the Simon Commission

The Civil Disobedience Movement saw an expansion of women’s roles. Women in Bombay, under Sarojini Naidu’s leadership, protested the Simon Commission, demanding complete Swaraj and inclusion of women in political processes.

Expansion of Political Activities

Gandhi legitimized the political involvement of women, encouraging them to take part in picketing, boycotts, and demonstrations. The participation of women in Indian freedom struggle now became more organized and visible.

Formation of Women’s Organizations

Several organizations played a pivotal role in mobilizing women:

• Women’s India Association (WIA): Founded in 1917 in Madras with Annie Besant as its first president, WIA was India’s first feminist organization.
  
• National Council of Women in India (NCWI): Established in Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras, it connected Indian women to international forums.
  
• All India Women’s Conference (AIWC): Founded in 1927 by Margaret Cousins, AIWC worked for women’s education, children’s welfare, and later, political rights. It raised funds for Lady Irwin College and launched its journal Roshni. Sarojini Naidu served as its president in 1930.
  

Kasturba Gandhi’s Role

Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Mahatma Gandhi, actively promoted khadi and endured several imprisonments. Her leadership symbolized the grassroots participation of women in Indian freedom struggle, inspiring women from villages and towns alike.

Women in Indian Freedom Struggle During the Quit India Movement

Voice of Freedom Radio Network

The Quit India Movement of 1942 saw women emerge as fearless leaders. Usha Mehta founded the Voice of Freedom underground radio network to broadcast updates on protests and British atrocities, keeping the spirit of resistance alive.

Women Self-Defence Committees

In Bengal, women joined the Mahila Atmaraksha Samiti, which organized self-defence training for women. These committees highlighted the growing assertiveness of women in Indian freedom struggle.

Unified Participation

Unlike earlier movements where roles were segregated, the Quit India Movement witnessed women and men fighting side by side. Women no longer needed separate platforms; they led processions, organized strikes, and directly confronted colonial authorities.

Women in Azad Hind Fauj

Subhas Chandra Bose created history by establishing the Rani of Jhansi Regiment under the Indian National Army (INA). Women soldiers like Captain Lakshmi Sehgal and Colonel Latika Ghosh took part in military marches and warfare training, proving that women in Indian freedom struggle could also be warriors on the battlefield.

Women in Revolutionary Activities

Not all women confined themselves to Gandhian movements. Many joined revolutionary organizations and undertook militant action.

Revolutionary Women Fighters

• Kalpana Dutta and Preetilata Waddedar joined the Chittagong Uprising led by Surya Sen. They carried out armed attacks on British installations.
  
• Suniti Choudhury inspired young women to participate in revolutionary acts, displaying immense courage and leadership.
  
• Bina Das attempted to assassinate Bengal Governor Stanley Jackson in 1932, highlighting the extreme sacrifices of women in Indian freedom struggle.
  

These women challenged stereotypes, proving that women could be as daring and determined as their male counterparts.

Legacy of Women in Indian Freedom Struggle

The contribution of women in Indian freedom struggle was not only political but also social and cultural. They broke centuries-old traditions, entered public life, and asserted their right to fight for justice. Their participation ensured that the freedom movement was inclusive and democratic.

By the time India gained independence in 1947, the role of women had transformed society’s perception of gender. They paved the way for post-independence reforms such as women’s suffrage, legal equality, and greater access to education and employment.

Conclusion

The story of women in Indian freedom struggle is one of resilience, sacrifice, and leadership. From the Non-Cooperation Movement to the Quit India Movement, from peaceful protests to armed revolution, women proved themselves as equal partners in the fight for freedom. Leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Annie Besant, Kasturba Gandhi, Usha Mehta, and countless unsung heroines showed that the independence of India was achieved through the combined efforts of both men and women.

Their courage continues to inspire generations, reminding us that the fight for justice and equality never ends.