Sarojini Naidu, born on 13th February 1879 in Hyderabad, was a prominent Indian political activist and poet. She holds the distinction of being the first Indian woman to serve as the president of the Indian National Congress and also the first Indian woman to be appointed as an Indian state governor. She is remarkable achievements in both the political and literary realms have left an indelible mark on Indian history. You can discover the entire Sarojini Naidu biography within this article.

Sarojini Naidu Biography

Sarojini Naidu, often referred to as “the Nightingale of India,” was not only a gifted author but also a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement against the British Raj. As a young girl, she showcased her writing talent by winning a scholarship for her play “Maher Muneer,” which provided her with the opportunity to study abroad. Her involvement in the independence movement led to her arrest during the 1930 Salt March, alongside other prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Madan Mohan Malaviya.

Sarojini Naidu Picture

Sarojini Naidu Young Age Picture

Sarojini Naidu with her Husband (Govindarajulu Naidu)

Sarojini Naidu Father (Aghorenath Chattopadhyay)

Sarojini Naidu Brother Harindranath Chattopadhyay

Sarojini Naidu Brother Virendranath Chattopadhyaya

Family

She came from a family with a rich intellectual and artistic background. Her father was a respected scientist, philosopher, and teacher, while her mother was named Varada Sundari Devi. Sarojini Naidu held the distinction of being the eldest among her eight siblings. Her second brother, who was an accomplished dramatist and renowned poet, added to the family’s literary legacy.

Education

At the age of twelve, Sarojini Naidu embarked on her educational journey by enrolling at the University of Madras. From 1895 to 1898, she pursued her studies there. Her quest for knowledge led her to King’s College in London, where she continued her education. Subsequently, she furthered her academic pursuits at Girton College, Cambridge.

Age

She was born in Hyderabad on 13 February 1879 to Aghorenath Chattopadhyay and Varada Sundari Devi.

Husband

In 1898, after completing her education, Sarojini Naidu returned to Hyderabad. It was during this time that she got married to Govindarajulu Naidu.

Death

On 2 March 1949, she died of a cardiac arrest at the Government House in Lucknow.

Legacy

Sarojini Naidu was widely recognized as one of India’s feminist luminaries. Her significant contributions to the empowerment of women and her advocacy for their rights earned her this esteemed reputation. To honor her remarkable life and achievements, 13 February is observed as National Women’s Day in India, commemorating her birth anniversary. Sarojini Naidu remained steadfast in her commitment to the cause of freedom, declaring that she would not abandon it as long as she had lived within her and had the strength to fight for it. She described herself as a poet and a woman, intertwining her creative spirit with her gender identity, making her a symbol of resilience and determination.

Political Career

Sarojini Naidu’s oratory skills led her to address significant gatherings such as the Indian National Congress and the Indian Social Conference in Calcutta in 1906. Her powerful words resonated with people, inspiring them to fight for their rights and fostering a sense of national pride. Despite her engagement in politics, Sarojini Naidu remained dedicated to her writing. Her literary works gained admiration from readers around the world. Notable creations include “In the Bazaars of Hyderabad,” “The Golden Threshold,” “The Bird of Time,” “The Queen’s Rival,” and “The Royal Tombs of Golconda.”

Awards & Achievements

Sarojini Naidu, a celebrated poet, feminist, and activist, continues to inspire millions of women worldwide. Her birthday is commemorated as Women’s Day in India, honoring the contributions of women across the nation. Drawing inspiration from nature and her surroundings, Sarojini Naidu’s poetry embodied her deep love for her country. Her verses exuded a spirit of patriotism and reflected her unwavering commitment to the Indian independence movement.

Works List

• 1961: The Feather of the Dawn, edited by Padmaja Naidu>
• 1948: The Sceptred Flute: Songs of India, New York: Dodd, Mead, & Co.
• 1922: Editor, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, An Ambassador of Unity: His Speeches & Writings 1912–1917, with a biographical “Pen Portrait” of Jinnah by Naidu, Madras: Ganesh & Co.
• 1920: The Speeches and Writings of Sarojini Naidu, Madras: G.A. Natesan & Co.
• 1919: The Broken Wing: Songs of Love, Death, and the Spring
• 1919: “The Song of the Palanquin Bearers”, lyrics by Naidu and music by Martin Shaw, London: Curwen
• 1915: Thth & the Spring, London: William Heineman and New York: John Lane Company
• 1905: The Golden Threshold, London: William Heineman

Quotes

• “I am not ready to die because it requires infinitely greater courage to live.”
• “We want deeper sincerity of motive, greater courage in speech, and earnestness in action.”
• “I say it is not your pride that you are a Madrasi, it is not your pride that you 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.”
• “A country’s greatness lies in its undying ideals of love and sacrifice that inspire the mothers of the race.”
• And other

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