Context: The 141stbirth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu also known as Nightingale of India/ Bharat Kokila, a doyen of Indian Independence movement, is being celebrated on 13th February, 2021.
Analysis
- Sarojini Naidu was eventually drawn towards Indian National Congress’ movement to liberate India from the British.
- She went on to become a follower of Mahatma Gandhi and was subsequently appointed President of the Indian National Congress in 1925 (the first Indian woman to become President of the Congress).
- She accompanied Gandhi to London for the inconclusive second session of the Round Table Conferencein 1931.
- In 1942, while Gandhi was leading the Quit India Movement, the British government imprisoned her for almost two years.
- Presenting the National Flag to the House on behalf of the women of India, Srimati Hansa Mehta said: “In the absence of Srimati Sarojini Naidu, it is my proud privilege on behalf of the women of India to present this flag to the nation through you.
- After India gained independence in 1947, Naidu was appointed as the governor of the United Provinces, which is today known as Uttar Pradesh.
- With her appointment, she became India’s first woman governor.
- From 1906 onwards, Jinnah propagated the theme of national unity in the meetings that he addressed, earning from Sarojini Naidu the title ‘Ambassador of Hindu-Muslim Unity.’
- Sarojini Naidu was also known for her literary prowess and in 1914 she was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.
- Sarojini Naidu otherwise known as The Nightingale of India earned this nickname for herself because of her contribution to poetry.
- The birth anniversary of Naidu is celebrated as National Women’s Day in India.
