2016-01-25 Mon

Ramabai Ranade was an Indian social worker and one of the first women's rights activists in the 19th century India. Today is her 90th Death Anniversary.

Ramabai Ranade was born a very orthodox society gripped by superstitious beliefs. However, her life took a drastic turn when she was married to Justice M. G. Ranade at the age of 11 years. Justice Ranade was himself a scholar, idealist, and a revolutionary social activist.

With the guidance of her husband, Ramabai Ranade climbed up that social ladder which was prohibited for the women of the contemporary society. Ramabai was determined to educate herself and gradually became an active part of the mission started by her husband.

Ramabai started 'Hindu Ladies Social Club' in Mumbai to develop public speaking among women and was also a founder and President of 'Seva Sadan Society' in Pune. Ramabai devoted her life to the improvement of women's lives as well as opened famous girl's school in Pune "Hujurpaga".

Even after the death of Justice Ranade, she continued her work. Her work did not remain only in the boundaries of India. Her fame also reached in foreign masses when Ramabai participated in the 'War Conference' and spoke to the Governor on behalf of Indian women. S Besides, she also fought for the cause of Indian labour in Fiji and Kenya.

India Post honoured her service with a release of a commemorative stamp on her birth centenary. The stamp with the value of 0.15 Naya Paisa features her portrait.