Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers Over Time | Savitribai Phule (1831–1897)

By nehajajal

  • Birth of a Pioneer

    Savitribai Phule was born in Naigaon, Maharashtra. Coming from a marginalized community, she overcame social barriers to become India's first female teacher and a leading social reformer.

  • Journey Towards Education

    Her husband, Jyotirao Phule, educated her at home, defying social norms. She later trained formally to become a teacher, setting the foundation for her future revolutionary work.

  • Establishing India’s First Girls’ School

    Along with Jyotirao, she opened the first school for girls in Pune, focusing on educating lower-caste and marginalized children, despite facing severe opposition from society.

  • Expansion of Education for Women & Dalits

    She played a key role in opening multiple schools across Maharashtra, emphasizing the right to education for all, especially Dalit and backward-class children.

  • Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha (Home for Widows & Orphans)

    Recognizing the struggles of widows and unwed mothers, she set up a home to protect them, providing shelter and opportunities for a dignified life.

  • First Female Teacher in India

    She officially became India’s first female teacher, marking a historic milestone in women’s empowerment and education in the country.

  • Founding a Shelter for Socially Oppressed Women

    Savitribai and Jyotirao established the Infanticide Prevention Home, offering a safe space for widows and women abandoned by society.

  • Support for the Satya Shodhak Samaj Movement

    She actively participated in Satya Shodhak Samaj, a social reform movement founded by Jyotirao to fight against caste discrimination and promote equality.

  • Death of Jyotirao Phule & Leadership Continuation

    After the death of her husband, Savitribai took over his responsibilities and led his social reform movements, carrying forward his legacy of equality and justice.

  • Fighting the Bubonic Plague & Her Death

    During the plague outbreak in Pune, she personally helped infected patients. While serving the people, she contracted the disease and passed away on March 10, 1897, leaving behind an inspiring legacy.