Savitribai Phule: 10 key facts about India's first female teacher

Savitribai Phule was a great Indian social reformer, educator, and poet, born on January 3, 1831, in Maharashtra.

Savitribai Phule was married to Jyotirao Phule at the age of just 9.

In 1848, Savitribai Phule, along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, established India’s first girls' school at Bhide Wada in Pune.

Savitribai Phule established 18 schools to promote girls' education. By 1851, she was overseeing three girls' schools in Pune.

Savitribai Phule introduced scholarships for students to help them complete their education, thereby reducing dropout rates.

Savitribai Phule is regarded as India’s first teacher and female activist. She played a pivotal role in advocating for women's rights and empowering women through education.

Savitribai Phule actively campaigned against social injustices such as untouchability, child marriage, sati, and caste discrimination.

Savitribai Phule advocated for marriages that did not require a priest or dowry, promoting simpler and more egalitarian unions.

Savitribai Phule fought against untouchability. She built a well at her home for the untouchables, providing them access to water and promoting equality.

Savitribai Phule passed away on March 10, 1897. In 1998, India honoured her legacy by issuing a postage stamp in her memory.