If we understand from the perspective of sociology and the demographic population, then it can be said that any struggle has been considered ineffective when women have not participated in it. Whether it is the period of the European Renaissance against witchcraft or the colonial period of India, where women did not fight for the revival and reform of Indian culture, civilization, and education during the Indian independence movement.
“Evidence is unnecessary for the proud successors. Whenever the British recall the resilience of Indian women, the shrewd Queen Laxmibai comes to mind. In addition to securing the nation’s independence, Queen Laxmibai upheld Hindu values and education as inseparable. She resisted the cunning tactics of British-aligned Christian missionaries, and “their slogans are still remembered by the entire world today, like in the words of Lord Krishna, ‘If we are victorious, we will enjoy the rewards of victory; if defeated and killed on the battlefield, we will undoubtedly achieve eternal glory and salvation.'”
The concept of a Hindu nation is rooted in the inspiration, pride, consciousness, and optimism of a Hindu warrior queen who valiantly opposed British colonial rule. She drew her strength from the Bhagavad Gita, the revered scripture of Hinduism, and safeguarded her land, heritage, and faith from foreign intruders.
Furthermore, she lent her support to social reforms and movements aimed at eradicating the hardships and injustices faced by Hindus, particularly women, Dalits, and other marginalized communities. Her vision encompassed a liberated and unified India that would honour the multiplicity and cohesion of its populace while upholding the principles of truth, justice, equality, freedom, and fraternity.
The statement made by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, in which he said, “India is not just a piece of land, it is a living nation. This thought was greatly emphasized by Durga Bhabhi during the fight for independence. She made significant contributions alongside Bhagat Singhji. She was also against the partition of India, as she believed that India, being a part of an ancient civilization, could not be divided based on religion.”
Sarla Devi was a visionary freedom fighter who considered education as the most powerful tool not only for Odisha but for the entire India. She actively took part in the non-cooperation movement and authored 30 books and 300 essays on various subjects including Indian culture, women’s issues, and politics.
Even today, her renowned book “Bharatvarsha: The Cradle of Civilizations – A Story of Ancient India” holds significance. By reading this book, we can still contribute to the study of India’s cultural and scientific aspects, as well as its politics, economy, and more.
From the era of freedom today, we realize that whether it’s Queen Laxmi Bai, Sarla Devi, or Durga Bhabhi, the power of women was awakened concerning their culture and education. India will truly become a world leader only when its daughters understand and embrace the ancient Indic culture of the world, becoming a part of the country’s way in various fields such as politics, economics, science, and beyond. Because when a daughter rises and stands, victory becomes paramount.