SAROJINI NAIDU - BIOGRAPHY
The biography of Sarojini Naidu is written by Padmini Sengupta. Sarojini Naidu, known as the
Nightingale of India, was a remarkable poet, freedom fighter, and social reformer. She played an
important role in India’s struggle for independence. Her eloquent words, both in poetry and
speeches, inspired generations with themes of patriotism, unity, and human dignity.
Early Life and Family Background:
Sarojini Naidu was born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, India. She was the eldest of eight
children. Her family was highly educated and cultured. Her father, Aghorenath Chattopadhyay,
was highly educated. He was a scholar in many languages. He was a of social reformer and
supported women's education and opposed caste and child marriage. Her mother, Varada
Sundari, was a Bengali poet. The family valued education, hospitality, and cultural exchange.
Sarojini grew up in a home where many languages were spoken and where people of all faiths
and backgrounds were welcomed. Sarojini was initially reluctant to learn English until her father
insisted strongly and punished her to ensure she mastered it. From a young age, Sarojini showed
poetic talent and wrote her first poem at age 11. She was intellectually gifted and by twelve, she
had passed the matriculation exam in first class—a rare accomplishment for girls of her time.
Education and Early Literary Career:
At the age of sixteen, Sarojini went to King’s College, London, and later to Girton College,
Cambridge, for higher education. During her time in England, she met famous writers such as
Edmund Gosse, who encouraged her to write poetry in English. Her poems, inspired by Indian
culture, nature, and emotions, impressed English audiences. Despite health struggles and some
nervous breakdowns, she thrived intellectually and emotionally, fascinated by European culture,
especially Italy. Sarojini's early literary work focused on lyrical poetry and introduced Indian
themes to the English-reading world.
Marriage and Family Life:
Sarojini fell in love with Dr. Govindarajulu Naidu, a South Indian doctor. Her parents initially
opposed the marriage because of caste differences and her young age, but after she returned from
England, they agreed. The marriage took place in 1898 under the Special Marriage Act, which
allowed intercaste unions. It was a progressive step for the time. Sarojini and her husband had
four children—Jayasurya, Padmaja, Ranadhir, and Leilamani. Their home in Hyderabad became
famous for its hospitality, music, and laughter, reflecting Sarojini’s warm and lively personality.
Literary Fame and Political Involvement:
Known as the "Nightingale of India," Sarojini gained fame for her eloquent poetry and powerful
speeches. She was deeply patriotic and used her poetry and oratory to inspire Indians toward
unity and independence. She emphasized Hindu-Muslim unity and the emancipation of women,
urging women to fight for their rights and participate in the nation's freedom movement. She was
involved politically from early on and took part in the Swadeshi Movement and other nationalist
activities.
Role in the Freedom Movement:
Even before Mahatma Gandhi became a national leader, Sarojini Naidu was active in the
Swadeshi Movement and the fight for independence. She became a close associate of Gopal
Krishna Gokhale, Mahatma Gandhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru. She participated in Satyagraha, gave
stirring speeches, and inspired people to rise for freedom. She was a devoted follower of
Gandhi. In 1925, she made history as the first Indian woman President of the Indian National
Congress. Gandhi later sent her as India’s unofficial ambassador to the United States, where she
impressed people with her eloquence and charm while speaking about India’s struggle for
independence.
Later Life and Death
After India gained independence in 1947, Sarojini Naidu became the first woman Governor of
Uttar Pradesh. She continued to work for peace, unity, and equality. Even though her health
declined due to high blood pressure and heart problems, she remained active in public life. She
passed away on March 2, 1949, at the age of 70, after a lifetime of service and inspiration. Her
death was mourned across India, and leaders like Pandit Nehru and Lady Mountbatten attended
her funeral.
Conclusion
Sarojini Naidu is remembered as a poet, freedom fighter, social reformer, and symbol of
womanhood. She devoted her life to India’s independence and to uplifting women and the poor.
Her words and actions reflected her belief in love, peace, unity, and courage. Her poems and
speeches continue to inspire people even today, reminding us of her message: to live not with
anger or violence, but with truth, patience, and the strength of spirit.
