Subhas Chandra Bose, The Crusader for Equal Rights for Women
Sikri, Richa
Associate Professor, Department of History, M.L.N. College, Radaur
Abstract
The paper highlights the works done by Subhas Chandra Bose, the famous freedom fighter of India for giving equal rights to women. He did not compartmentalize men and women. He was in favour of giving same jobs and opportunities to both as women had same talent, intelligence, caliber and capacity. He did that when no such term like ‘Gender Equality’ was minted by different societies of the world.
Keywords – Gender Equality, Equal Rights, Caliber, Sacrifice, Motherland, Independence, India
Impact Statement
This research paper provides a critical re-examination of Subhas Chandra Bose’s pioneering role in advocating for gender equality during India’s freedom struggle, emphasizing his radical departure from the patriarchal norms of his time. By foregrounding his initiatives—such as the formation of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, promotion of female leadership, and insistence on equal participation of women in the Indian National Army—this study contributes significantly to the gendered historiography of India’s independence movement.
The paper not only reasserts Bose’s relevance in contemporary feminist discourse but also serves as a vital resource for scholars exploring the intersections of nationalism, militarism, and women’s empowerment. It offers a corrective lens to conventional narratives that have often sidelined or minimized the contributions of women leaders and the men who championed their cause. The research enriches academic understanding of gender-inclusive leadership in anti-colonial movements and encourages further inquiry into the integration of feminist ideals in political resistance movements across the Global South.
About Author
Dr.Richa Sikri is working as Associate Professor of History in M.L.N.College , Radaur since 2008. Her one book ‘Early Brahmanical Cults and Iconography’ (c. 400B.C TO A.D.600) has been published and available on amazon.
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