About Sarojini Naidu

Sarojini Naidu, born on February 13, 1879, was a prominent Indian political activist and poet whose contributions left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. Hailing from a Bengali family in Hyderabad, her education spanned across Madras, London, and Cambridge, where she also championed the cause of women’s suffrage. However, her true calling lay in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule.

Embracing the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and the quest for “swaraj” or self-rule, Naidu emerged as a vital figure in the Indian National Congress. In 1925, she shattered glass ceilings by becoming the first woman to preside over Congress. Following India’s hard-fought independence, Naidu achieved another historic milestone by becoming the inaugural female Governor of the United Provinces in 1947.

Her literary prowess as a poet earned her the endearing moniker “the Nightingale of India,” a title bestowed upon her by Gandhi. Her poetry, characterised by vivid imagery, lyrical quality, and vibrant colours, covered a wide range of topics, from children’s verses to profound expressions of patriotism and tragedy.

Notably, her 1912 poem “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad” remains a timeless gem in the world of Indian literature. Sarojini Naidu’s life and work continue to inspire and stand as a testament to the power of women in shaping India’s destiny.

Sarojini Naidu Personal Life

Sarojini Naidu, a prominent figure in India’s history, was born in Hyderabad on February 13, 1879, to Aghorenath Chattopadhyay. Her father, originally from Brahmangaon Bikrampur in Dhaka, Bengal (now in Bangladesh), was a Bengali Brahmin and also served as the principal of Nizam College. Notably, he held a doctorate in Science from the prestigious Edinburgh University. On the other hand, her mother was a talented poet who expressed her creativity through Bengali poetry. Sarojini Naidu’s family background was rich in intellectual pursuits and literary endeavours, which greatly influenced her own journey as a poet and a significant leader in India’s struggle for independence.

The eldest among eight siblings, she hailed from a prominent and respected family in Hyderabad. Her brother, Virendranath Chattopadhyay, was a notable revolutionary, while another sibling, Harindranath, carved his name as a renowned poet, dramatist, and actor. With a rich family history and a legacy of achievements, this family left an indelible mark on the cultural and political landscape of their time.

Sarojini Naidu Educations

Sarojini Naidu, an exceptional Indian scholar and poet, demonstrated her remarkable academic prowess early in life by achieving the highest rank in her matriculation examination at the age of twelve in 1891. Her educational journey took her to England, where she pursued higher studies at prestigious institutions. From 1895 to 1898, she attended King’s College in London and later Girton College, Cambridge, thanks to a scholarship generously provided by the Nizam of Hyderabad.

During her time in England, she had the opportunity to engage with artists and intellectuals associated with the Aesthetic and Decadent movements, expanding her horizons in the world of literature and arts. Sarojini Naidu’s remarkable academic achievements and international exposure laid the foundation for her future contributions as a renowned poet and leader in India’s struggle for independence.

Sarojini Naidu Marriage

In 1898, Sarojini returned to Hyderabad and, in the same year, tied the knot with Govindaraju Naidu, a physician whom she had met during her time in England. This union was regarded as “groundbreaking and scandalous” at the time, even though it had the blessing of both their families. Their marriage, marked by its longevity and harmony, bore the fruit of five children. One of their daughters, Padmaja, also made her mark in history by joining the Quit India Movement and later holding significant governmental positions in independent India. This remarkable love story and family legacy continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come.

Sarojini Naidu’s Pivotal Role in the Indian National Movement

Sarojini Naidu played a pivotal role in the Indian National Movement, inspired by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Gopal Krishna Gokhale. Her political journey began with the partition of Bengal in 1905, which deeply affected her. Gokhale introduced her to other freedom fighters, encouraging her to dedicate her skills to the cause. Temporarily putting her writing aside, she interacted with prominent figures like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, C. P. Ramaswami Iyer, Mahatma Gandhi, and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

Collaborating with Nehru in 1916, they championed the rights of indigo workers in Champaran, Bihar, challenging British oppression. Sarojini Naidu’s extensive travels across India involved impassioned speeches on nationalism, women’s empowerment, labour dignity, and youth welfare. She co-founded the Women’s India Association in 1917 with Annie Besant and advocated for increased female involvement in the freedom struggle. Serving as a representative of the Indian Nationalist movement, she also embarked on international journeys to the United States and various European nations. Sarojini Naidu’s multifaceted contributions left an indelible mark on India’s fight for independence.

Sarojini Naidu Achievement

Sarojini Naidu, a prominent figure in Indian history, is celebrated for her remarkable contributions to both Indian poetry and the Indian Nationalist Movement. Her poetic prowess is celebrated through various songs inspired by her compositions, which continue to resonate with people. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature and the world around her, Naidu’s writing vividly reflects her unwavering patriotism.

Her initial poetry collection, “Golden Threshold,” released in 1905, marked the beginning of her literary journey. Later, she further enriched the world of literature with two more volumes, “The Bird of Time” and “The Broken Wings,” both earning praise in India and England. Beyond her poetic talent, Naidu’s influence extended to essays and articles, such as “Words of Freedom,” addressing significant social issues, including women’s empowerment and political challenges. Sarojini Naidu’s legacy as a poet and nationalist is etched in the annals of Indian history, leaving an indelible mark on both literature and the struggle for independence.

Sarojini Naidu Death

Sarojini Naidu, the first female governor of Uttar Pradesh, was a remarkable figure in India’s fight for freedom. Her indomitable spirit and commitment to the cause of liberty were evident until her passing on March 2, 1949, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. She once declared, “I shall not quit the cause of freedom as long as I have life.” Known as a poet and a woman of immense fortitude, Naidu’s legacy lives on as an inspiration to all. Her childhood home in Nampally, Hyderabad, was generously bequeathed to the University of Hyderabad and is now known as ‘The Golden Threshold,’ a testament to her 1905 publication of the same name. Furthermore, the University honoured her memory by renaming its School of Fine Arts and Communication as the ‘Sarojini Naidu School of Arts and Communication.’ Naidu’s enduring impact as the ‘Nightingale of India’ continues to resonate with future generations.

Sarojini Naidu’s Quotes

• “We want deeper sincerity of motive, a greater courage in speech, and earnestness in action.”
• “A country’s greatness lies in its undying ideals of love and sacrifice that inspire the mothers of the race.”
• “I say it is not your pride that you are a Madrasi, it is not your pride that you are a brahmin, it is not your pride that you belong to south India, it is not your pride that you are a Hindu, that it is your pride that you are an Indian.”
• “When there is oppression, the only self-respecting thing is to rise and say this shall cease today because my right is justice. If you are stronger, you have to help the weaker boy or girl both in play and in the work.”
• “I am not ready to die because it requires infinitely greater courage to live.”

Conclusion

Sarojini Naidu, the Nightingale of India, was not only a celebrated poet but also a key player in India’s fight for independence. Born in 1879 in Hyderabad, she made her mark in London and Cambridge with her education. Her pivotal role in the Indian National Movement, alongside leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, is etched in history. Her inspiring quotes and enduring legacy continue to influence generations. Naidu’s contributions to literature and India’s freedom struggle are a testament to her enduring impact.

FAQs on About Sarojini Naidu

Who was Sarojini Naidu?

Sarojini Naidu, born on February 13, 1879, was a prominent Indian political activist and poet. She played a vital role in India's struggle for independence and is often referred to as 'the Nightingale of India' due to her poetic prowess.

What is Sarojini Naidu known for?

Sarojini Naidu is known for her contributions to Indian literature as a poet and her active role in the Indian National Movement. She was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and became the first woman to preside over the Indian National Congress in 1925

Where was Sarojini Naidu born, and what was her family background?

On February 13, 1879, Sarojini Naidu was born in Hyderabad. She came from a well-respected Bengali family with a rich intellectual and literary heritage. Her father, Aghorenath Chattopadhyay, was the principal of Nizam College, and her mother was a talented poet

When did Sarojini Naidu pass away?

Sarojini Naidu passed away on March 2, 1949, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

What role did Sarojini Naidu play in the Indian National Movement?

Sarojini Naidu was an active participant in the Indian National Movement. She worked closely with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru and championed various causes, including the rights of indigo workers in Champaran, Bihar. She co-founded the Women's India Association and advocated for women's participation in the freedom struggle.