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Savitribai Jyotirao Phule was born on 3 January 1831 in Naigaon, a small village in the Satara district of Maharashtra, India. She was born into a farming family belonging to the Mali (gardener) community. Her parents, Lakshmi Bai and Khandoji Nevse Patil, were of modest means but played a significant role in her upbringing. -
Educated by Jyotirao Phule and later trained as a teacher at a missionary school in Ahmednagar and Pune.
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Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule established the first school for girls on 1st May 1848 at Bhide Wada, Pune, Maharashtra. This marked a revolutionary step in women's education in India. She also became India’s first female teacher in 1848, dedicating her life to educating girls and marginalized communities despite facing immense societal resistance. -
Started two more schools for girls, focusing on lower-caste and Dalit students -
Honored by the British government for her work in women’s education. -
Opened a home for widows and abandoned women, encouraging widow remarriage. -
Published her first collection of poems, "Kavya Phule", promoting social reform. -
Started India’s first infanticide prevention center for pregnant widows to provide shelter and support. -
Played a major role in the formation of Satyashodhak Samaj, founded by Jyotirao Phule, which worked against caste oppression and for social equality. -
Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule adopted their son, Yashwant Rao Phule Reason for Adoption
They adopted Yashwant Rao from a widow to challenge the stigma against widowhood and to promote widow remarriage and child welfare. Later, Yashwant Rao Phule became a doctor and continued their legacy by serving the poor and helping during the plague epidemic in 1897. -
Started a clinic for plague victims along with her adopted son, Yashwant Rao Phule. -
Died while serving plague victims in Pune. She contracted the disease while trying to save others. -
Revolutionized Women’s Education – Opened India’s first school for girls, breaking gender barriers. Empowered Marginalized Communities – Supported widows, promoted widow remarriage, and fought caste discrimination. Pioneered Women’s Leadership – Became India’s first female teacher, inspiring future leaders. Fought for Social Justice – Opposed untouchability, gender bias, and child marriage. Led Public Health Initiatives – Served plague victims, showcasing women’s leadership in crisis.