Savitribai Phule birth anniversary: The woman who started girls' school in 1848

NEW DELHI: January 3rd marks the birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, one of the world's greatest teachers. Savitribai Phule was an advocate for the rights of women and lower castes, and she played a key role in the social reform movement in India during the 19th century.
Savitribai was born on January 3, 1831 in Naigaon, Maharashtra and was married to Jyotirao at the age of nine. Her husband taught her to read and write, and she later became a qualified teacher in 1847. Despite facing harassment and ostracism from conservative elements, Savitribai and her husband were instrumental in establishing the "Society of Truth-seekers," which promoted progressive ideas, condemned the dowry system, and encouraged marriage without the exchange of dowry.
Savitribai Phule made history by becoming the first female teacher in India and establishing 17 schools. Along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, she founded the first school for girls in Pune, which was run by native Indians. Savitribai was deeply committed to the education of her students and regularly held meetings with their parents to emphasize the importance of education for girls.
Savitribai and her husband were instrumental in setting up `Satyashodhak Samaj' (Society of Truth-seekers), which championed progressive ideas, denounced the dowry custom and encouraged marriage without exchange of dowry.
Savitribai passed away on March 10, 1897.