Throughout our history of fighting for freedom, there are many incredible stories of women who showed great bravery, made sacrifices, and were smart leaders. These women did more than just support the cause; they took bold actions themselves. They formed secret groups to fight against British rule, published writings that criticized the British, and faced severe punishment and torture. They were not just followers but important leaders who played crucial roles in the struggle for freedom.

Before and During the Revolt of 1857

• Bhima Bai Holkar: In 1817, Bhima Bai Holkar fought against a British Colonel named Malcolm. She was successful in her fight and showed that women were active in resisting British rule long before the 1857 Revolt.
• Rani Laxmibai: She was the queen of Jhansi. During the Revolt of 1857, she fought bravely against the British. Her husband, Raja Gangadhar Rao, was the ruler of Jhansi, and she resisted the British policies. She continued to defend Jhansi fiercely and died fighting on the battlefield.
• Hazrat Mahal Begum: She was the wife of the ruler of Lucknow, who had been removed from power. During the Revolt of 1857, she played a key role in fighting against the British.

After the Revolt of 1857

• Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay: She was a social reformer and freedom fighter. She worked to help rural artisans, promote local industries, and support women’s rights in India before it gained independence.
• Kasturba Gandhi: The wife of Mahatma Gandhi, she supported him in his efforts for India’s freedom. She was active in promoting women's education and empowerment.
• Hansa Mehta: An educator and diplomat, she worked for India’s independence and women's rights. She was involved in shaping policies after India became independent.
• Pritilata Wodeyar: A brave revolutionary who led an attack on a British club, showing strong resistance against British rule. Her courage and sacrifice were inspiring.
• Sarojini Naidu: Known as the "Nightingale of India," she was a poet and freedom fighter. She played a significant role in the Indian National Congress and the fight for independence.
• Vijay Lakshmi Pandit: A diplomat and politician, she was the first woman to lead the United Nations General Assembly. She was also a key figure in the independence movement.
• Usha Mehta: A broadcaster and activist, she led the Congress Radio during the Quit India Movement, using radio to spread the message of independence.
• Durgabai Deshmukh: A social worker and politician, she worked for women's rights and the upliftment of marginalized groups in post-independence India.
• Aruna Asaf Ali: She played a crucial role in the Quit India Movement and was known for raising the National Flag to mark the movement’s beginning.
• Rani Gaidineliu: A leader from Manipur, she led the Naga nationalist movement against British rule.
• Kalpana Dutta: A revolutionary leader inspired by Surya Sen, she was involved in the fight against British rule.
• Madam Bhikaji Cama: Influenced by Dadabhai Naoroji, she inspired Indian youth in the UK. She was the first to raise the National Flag at an international conference and started the periodical ‘Bande Mataram.’
• Sucheta Kriplani: A nationalist with socialist views, she worked closely with Jai Prakash Narayan and was active in the Quit India Movement.
• Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur: A follower of Gandhiji, she participated in the Salt Satyagraha and Quit India Movement and became India’s first Health Minister after independence.
• Annie Besant: Born in Ireland, she was a strong supporter of India’s freedom. She started the Madras Home Rule League and became the first woman president of the Indian National Congress in 1917.