Durgabai Deshmukh with fellow women members of the Constituent Assembly. (Source: Kerala Prime Media)

Durgabai Deshmukh (1909–1981) was a remarkable freedom fighter, social reformer, and advocate for women's emancipation. Known as the "Iron Lady" and a firebrand leader, she played a pivotal role in India's independence movement and later contributed significantly to nation-building.

Born in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, she rebelled against her child marriage at the age of 8, with her family supporting her decision. As a young girl, she participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt Satyagraha, where she was imprisoned three times between 1930 and 1933.

A staunch Gandhian, Durgabai actively promoted women's education and empowerment. She founded the Andhra Mahila Sabha in 1936, which became a renowned institution for education and social welfare. As the first chairperson of the Central Social Welfare Board, she mobilized numerous voluntary organizations to support education, training, and rehabilitation programs for women, children, and the disabled.

Durgabai's legal and legislative contributions were equally ground breaking. As a member of the Constituent Assembly, she advocated for women's property rights under the Hindu Code Bill, judicial independence, and the selection of Hindustani as the national language. She foresaw the need for separate family courts in India, a vision realized with the Family Courts Act of 1984, three years after her passing.

She was instrumental in organizing women satyagrahis during the freedom struggle, earning admiration for her leadership. Her strict adherence to Gandhian principles even led her to prevent Jawaharlal Nehru from entering a Khadi exhibition without a ticket, a moment he later praised.

In recognition of her contributions, Durgabai received prestigious awards like the Padma Vibhushan, Paul G. Hoffman Award, and UNESCO Award for her work in literacy. Her autobiography, Chintaman and I, highlights her life with her husband, C.D. Deshmukh, India’s former Finance Minister, and their shared commitment to public service.

Durgabai Deshmukh's legacy as a builder of modern India, a champion for women’s rights, and a defender of social justice continues to inspire generations. Her life was a testament to resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication to the nation's progress.

Dr. Madabhushi Sridhar Acharyulu, Dean, Mahindra University, Hyderabad.