Service to the nation

As early as in 1905, in the wake of the partition of Bengal, Sarojini plunged into the freedom struggle.

 

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/61/Mahatma_%26_Sarojini_Naidu_1930.JPG In 1906, at the age of 27, she attended the Indian National Conference. There she boldly moved an amendment substituting 'Indian' for 'Hindu'. The word Hindu was at that time as such accepted by the minority. No exclusivism was meant by the one or other nomenclature. To the sensitive mind of Sarojini Naidu, intensely patriotic and steeped in a culture which was a harmonious mix of the best features of a tolerant Hinduism and a catholic and liberal Islam, only the word 'Indian' was acceptable. She gently but in no uncertain terms told the delegates that she would participate in the National Conference only if her amendment was adopted. It was carried with Thunderous applause. This was prior to advent of Gandhiji into Indian politics. She took it as an affectionate invitation and a challenge to her to dedicate herself, heart and soul, in the service of Motherland. Sarojini had very fine aesthetic sense and was known for selection of exquisite silks an jewelry. But she gave up everything for the sake of national struggle and began to wear coarse Khadi.

 

She was not only the first President of the Indian National Congress, she was also the first woman Governor of India.

 

"When there is oppression, the only self-respecting thing is to rise and say this shall cease today, because my right is justice. If you are stronger, you have to help the weaker boy or girl both in play and in the work."