Who Was Mahatma Jyotirao Phule?
Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was a brave and kind-hearted social reformer from India. He was born on April 11, 1827, in a small town called Pune, in the state of Maharashtra. He is remembered for fighting against injustice, caste discrimination, and for promoting education for everyone, especially girls and lower-caste people.
Early Life
- Born in a poor family that belonged to the Mali caste (a gardener community).
- His family’s job was growing and selling flowers.
- He was very smart and curious as a child.
- At age 13, he was married to Savitribai Phule, who later became India’s first female teacher!
Education
- Jyotirao started school late but loved learning.
- He studied in a Scottish Mission High School in Pune.
- He read about many great people who stood up for equality and justice—this inspired him to bring change in Indian society.
What Did He Fight For?
- Jyotirao Phule saw many unfair things in society, such as:
- Untouchability: Some people were treated badly because of their caste.
- No education for girls or lower-caste children.
- Child marriage and unequal treatment of women.
- He believed everyone is equal, and that education is the key to freedom.
His Big Contributions
- 1. Started the First School for Girls (1848)
- With the help of his wife Savitribai, he opened the first school for girls in Pune.
- Many people were angry with him, but he didn’t stop because he knew he was doing the right thing.
- 👩🏫 2. Savitribai Phule Became a Teacher
- Jyotirao trained Savitribai to become a teacher.
- She taught girls and lower-caste children when no one else would.
- 🏠 3. Opened a Shelter for Widows
- Jyotirao and Savitribai started a home called “Balhatya Pratibandhak Griha” to protect widows and pregnant women who were thrown out by society.
- 📜 4. Wrote Powerful Books
- He wrote books like:
- Gulamgiri (Slavery) – to fight against caste and religious injustice.
- Shetkaryacha Asud (Cultivator’s Whipcord) – to show the problems of poor farmers.
- He wrote books like:
- 👫 5. Started Satyashodhak Samaj (1873)
- A group that worked to find the truth and spread equality.
- It helped people marry without dowry or priests, learn, and break caste barriers.
Why Is He Called “Mahatma”?
- “Mahatma” means great soul.
- People gave him this title because of his kindness, courage, and love for all humans.
His Legacy
- Mahatma Phule passed away on November 28, 1890.
- But his ideas still live on today.
- He inspired many leaders, including Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
- In India, his birthday is celebrated as Jyotiba Phule Jayanti every year on April 11.
What Can We Learn from Him?
- Treat everyone equally.
- Stand up against injustice.
- Help others, especially those who are in need.
- Education is powerful—it can change lives.
“A person who lacks education is like an animal.” – Mahatma Jyotirao Phule