Sarojini Naidu

Sarojini Naidu was a poet and political activist. Gifted with words, she was known for her brilliant public speaking and lyrical style. She advocated for civil rights, women's rights (especially suffrage and education), and Indian independence from colonial rule. In her late 30s, she joined Mahatma Gandhi's satyagraha movement of nonviolent resistance against British rule. During her time working with Gandhi, she travled to Britain multiple times to advocate for Indian freedom and became a trusted member of the movement. She, along with other female activists, persuaded Gandhi to allow women to join the Salt March. When Gandhi was arrested, he appointed her as leader of the march. She was arrested multiple times during her activism work—her last arrest resulting in 21 months in prison.

In 1925, she became the first woman president of the Indian National Congress. When India achieved their independence, she was made the Governor of Uttar Pradesh in 1947 (the first woman to hold this office). She remained Governor until her death in 1949. Her birthday, February 13, is celebrated as national women's day in India.