India’s struggle for independence was not just a battle fought by men. Many courageous women played pivotal roles in the fight against British colonial rule. These female freedom fighters of India were instrumental in shaping the nation’s history with their bravery, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the cause.
Here we pay our tribute to the top 20 female freedom fighters of India whose contributions continue to inspire.
Read More: Top 10 Freedom Fighters of India: Heroes Who Shaped the Nation’s Independence
List of Top 20 Female Freedom Fighters
1. Rani Lakshmibai
Known as the “Queen of Jhansi,” Rani Lakshmibai was a prominent leader of the 1857 Rebellion. Her resistance against the British East India Company and her role in the defense of Jhansi are legendary.
2. Sarojini Naidu
Sarojini Naidu, also known as the “Nightingale of India,” was a freedom fighter of India female as well as a poet. She was the first woman to become a governor in independent India and played a key role in the Indian National Movement.
3. Begum Roquiah Sakhawat Hossain
An influential social reformer and educationist, Begum Roquiah Sakhawat Hossain was a staunch advocate for women’s rights and played a significant role in the early feminist movement in Bengal.
4. Kasturba Gandhi
Kasturba Gandhi, the wife of Mahatma Gandhi, was deeply involved in the freedom struggle. She supported Gandhi’s campaigns and was a key figure in the non-violent movement for independence.
5. Chandramukhi Basu
Chandramukhi Basu was an early feminist and a leader in the women’s movement in India. She played a crucial role in advocating for women’s rights and education.
6. Aruna Asaf Ali
Aruna Asaf Ali was a prominent freedom fighter and is remembered for hoisting the Indian National Congress flag at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay during the Quit India Movement.
7. Kamala Nehru
Kamala Nehru, wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, was an active participant in the independence movement and was involved in several protests and campaigns against British rule.
8. Annie Besant
Annie Besant was a British-born Indian freedom fighter who became an active leader of the Theosophical Society and a significant figure in the Indian National Movement.
9. Madam Cama
Madam Bhikaji Cama was an early and prominent member of the Indian freedom movement. She is known for unfurling the first version of the Indian national flag at the International Socialist Congress in 1907.
10. Usha Mehta
Usha Mehta was a prominent figure in the Quit India Movement and was known for her role in operating the clandestine Congress Radio during the struggle for independence.
11. Subhadra Kumari Chauhan
Subhadra Kumari Chauhan was an Indian poet and freedom fighter. Her work and contributions to the independence movement were widely recognized and celebrated.
12. Durga Bhabhi
Durga Bhabhi was a key figure in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association. She was actively involved in revolutionary activities and played a crucial role in the struggle against British rule.
13. Pritilata Waddedar
Pritilata Waddedar was a revolutionary who participated in several anti-British activities. She is remembered for her role in the Chittagong Armoury Raid.
14. Laxmi Sehgal
Dr. Laxmi Sehgal was a prominent member of Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army. She led the Rani of Jhansi Regiment and made significant contributions to the independence movement.
15. Bina Das
Bina Das was a revolutionary freedom fighter known for her involvement in several daring acts against the British, including a dramatic attempt to assassinate a British official.
16. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay
Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay was a leading figure in the Indian independence movement and played a significant role in promoting Indian handicrafts and women’s rights.
17. Hema Bharati
Hema Bharati was an important member of the Indian freedom movement, known for her participation in several protests and revolutionary activities against British colonial rule.
18. Savitri Bai Phule
Savitri Bai Phule was a pioneer in education for women and worked tirelessly for social reform. Her efforts in the field of education laid the foundation for future generations of women.
19. Rukmini Lakshmipathi
Rukmini Lakshmipathi was a prominent activist in the Indian independence movement, known for her efforts in mobilizing women and her participation in various political activities.
20. Nellie Sengupta
Nellie Sengupta was a prominent freedom fighter and a member of the Indian National Congress. She actively participated in the independence movement and worked alongside other leaders to achieve freedom.
Conclusion
The contributions of these top 20 female freedom fighters of India were pivotal in shaping the nation’s history. Their bravery and dedication to the cause of independence continue to inspire future generations. Recognizing and honoring their roles in the freedom struggle is essential to understanding the comprehensive narrative of India’s journey to independence.
FAQs
Who were the top 20 female freedom fighters of India?Â
The top 20 female freedom fighters include Rani Lakshmibai, Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, Aruna Asaf Ali, and Madam Bhikaji Cama, among others.
Who was the first female freedom fighter of India?Â
Rani Lakshmibai, the Queen of Jhansi, is often regarded as the first prominent female freedom fighter in India’s struggle against British rule.
Are there lesser-known female freedom fighters of India?Â
Yes, many lesser-known freedom fighters like Pritilata Waddedar, Bina Das, and Hema Bharati made significant contributions to the independence movement.
Can you name a few famous female freedom fighters of India?Â
Some famous female freedom fighters include Sarojini Naidu, Annie Besant, and Laxmi Sehgal.
