Empowered Voices: Women’s Participation in the Indian Independence Movement

A. Jayalakshmi

Empowered Voices: Women’s Participation in the Indian Independence Movement

Author(s)	A. Jayalakshmi
Country	India
Abstract	The role of women in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule (1920-1947) has often been overshadowed by the prominence of male leaders. However, this period witnessed a significant mobilization of women who transformed their societal roles and actively participated in the fight for freedom. This paper examines the crucial role of women in India's freedom struggle from 1920 to 1947, highlighting their active participation, leadership, and contributions within the broader nationalist movement. Traditional narratives often marginalize women's involvement; however, this study showcases their integral presence as activists and agents of social change. Through notable campaigns such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt March, and the Quit India Movement, women not only influenced the trajectory of the independence movement but also challenged prevailing gender norms.Key figures like Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Nehru, and Aruna Asaf Ali emerged as pivotal leaders, mobilizing support and integrating women’s rights into the national discourse. The research reveals the diversity of women's participation across class, caste, and regional lines, emphasizing their unique contributions and the various strategies employed to advance the cause of freedom. Furthermore, the study highlights the intersection of gender and nationalism, illustrating how women advocated for social reform alongside their efforts for independence.Despite facing significant challenges, including societal resistance and repression, women displayed remarkable resilience and determination. Their activism laid the foundation for subsequent feminist movements in post-colonial India, influencing policies on gender equity and social justice. Ultimately, this paper argues for the necessity of incorporating women's narratives into historical accounts of the freedom struggle to achieve a comprehensive understanding of India’s fight for independence. Recognizing these contributions not only honors the legacy of women in the nationalist movement but also underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality in contemporary society.
Keywords	Women’s participation, India’s freedom struggle, Nationalism, Feminism, Colonialism, Gender roles, Social reform
Published In	Volume 6, Issue 2, February 2025
Published On	2025-02-05
Cite This	Empowered Voices: Women’s Participation in the Indian Independence Movement - A. Jayalakshmi - IJLRP Volume 6, Issue 2, February 2025.

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Empowered Voices: Women’s Participation in the Indian Independence Movement

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