Savitribai Phule Birth Anniversary 2026: India Marks 195th Birth Anniversary of First Female Teacher, Pioneer of Women’s Education
Savitribai Phule Jayanti, observed annually on January 3, marks the birth anniversary of one of India’s foremost social reformers and educators. The 195th anniversary in 2026 brings renewed focus to her contributions in advancing women’s education and social equality during the 19th century.
Mumbai, January 3: India observed the 195th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule on January 3rd, commemorating the life and indelible contributions of the nation's first female teacher and a pioneering social reformer. Her legacy, marked by radical advocacy for women's education and social equality during the 19th century, continues to resonate across the country, inspiring ongoing efforts for social justice and gender empowerment.
Born on January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, Maharashtra, Savitribai Phule was married at the age of nine to Jyotirao Phule, another prominent social reformer. Defying the restrictive social norms of her era, she received her education under her husband's guidance, becoming India's first female teacher. Savitribai Phule Jayanti Date and Significance: Everything About Mahila Shikshan Din That Marks the Birth Anniversary of India’s First Female Teacher.
Savitribai Phule - Pioneer of Women’s Education
In 1848, the couple established the first school for girls in Pune, a revolutionary act that challenged deep-seated patriarchal structures. This initial effort led to the establishment of 18 more schools, not only for girls but also for children from marginalized communities, who were often denied access to formal education.
Savitribai Phule's work extended far beyond the classroom. She was a vocal critic of caste discrimination, untouchability, and patriarchy. Her commitment to equality was demonstrated when she opened a well in her own home for untouchables during a period of severe water scarcity, directly challenging caste segregation. Savitribai Phule Jayanti Messages and Mahila Shikshan Din HD Images for Free Download Online: Celebrate Birth Anniversary of Savitribai Phule With Quotes and Wallpapers.
She also founded the 'Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha' (Home for the Prevention of Infanticide), a shelter for pregnant widows, reflecting her deep concern for the most vulnerable sections of society. Furthermore, she actively campaigned for widow remarriage and challenged the practice of child marriage, advocating for the rights and dignity of women.
Literary Contributions and Activism
A prolific writer and poet, Savitribai Phule utilized her literary talents as a powerful tool for social change. Her notable works, including 'Kavya Phule' and 'Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar,' addressed pressing social issues, critiqued societal injustices, and championed the cause of education and empowerment.
She also founded the Mahila Seva Mandal, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about women's rights and fostering collective action among women.
Today, Savitribai Phule is recognized as a national icon for her profound contributions to education and social justice. Her principles continue to inspire various movements for gender equality, anti-casteism, and inclusive education in contemporary India.
Several institutions, including the Savitribai Phule Pune University, are named in her honor, signifying her lasting impact. On her birth anniversary, leaders, educators, and citizens across India paid tributes, reaffirming the enduring relevance of her vision for a society built on equality, education, and human dignity. Her life's work serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for social equity and the transformative power of education.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 03, 2026 09:23 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).