Unraveling the Life of Pandita Ramabai

Pandita Ramabai Sarasvati, born on April 23, 1858, in a Marathi Brahmin family, stands as an inspiration for women’s empowerment and education in India. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of her parents during the Great Famine of 1876-78, she continued her family’s tradition of religious recitation. Ramabai’s social reform commitment led her to marry a lower-caste Bengali lawyer after her husband’s early death. Recognized for her Sanskrit prowess, Pandita Ramabai earned titles from Calcutta University in 1878. Founding Arya Mahila Samaj at 23, she aimed to break the chains of child marriage and promote women’s education.

Ramabai’s influence extended globally as she championed Indian women’s education and emancipation in England and the United States. Her book “The High-Caste Hindu Woman” remains a feminist milestone. Beyond ideas, she took action during a 1896 famine by establishing Mukti Mission, sheltering destitute women, widows, and orphans, and providing education and vocational training. Despite criticism for converting to Christianity, she remained resolute in her faith and dedication to women’s empowerment.

Ramabai’s legacy, often overlooked, signifies intellectual courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social progress. Her story serves as a guiding light, emphasizing the need to continually question, learn, and evolve for a better world.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Your Story