## Sarojini Naidu Biography##

Sarojini Naidu (1879–1949), fondly known as the "Nightingale of India," was a renowned poet, freedom fighter, and political leader who played a key role in India's struggle for independence. She combined the art of writing with passionate nationalism, becoming one of the most celebrated female figures in modern Indian history. Her life was a remarkable blend of art and activism, and she will forever be a symbol of courage, oratory, and dedication to public service.Sarojini Naidu was born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, then part of the Hyderabad State under the British Raj. Her father, Aghornath Chattopadhyay, was a scientist, philosopher, and educationist, and her mother, Barada Sundari Devi, was a poet who wrote in Bengali. Raised in a well-to-do family, Sarojini displayed a strong talent for reading and writing from an early age. It is said that at the age of thirteen, she wrote a long poem, impressing both her family and teachers with her command of the language.

Recognizing her potential, her parents encouraged her to pursue higher education abroad. She studied at King's College, London, and later at Girton College, Cambridge. During her time in England, she refined her poetic style and was influenced by renowned literary figures. Although she initially wrote in English on romantic and lyrical themes, she later began to focus on Indian subjects, landscapes, traditions, and people, giving her poetry a distinctive national flavor.Sarojini Naidu rose to prominence as a poet in the early 20th century. Her first collection of poems, *The Golden Threshold* (1905), was a huge success. This was followed by *The Bird of Time* (1912) and *The Broken Wing* (1917). Her poetry was highly acclaimed for its powerful imagery, musical quality, and emotional depth. She often celebrated Indian culture, describing scenes of village life, festivals, markets, and the beauty of nature.Her lyrical style earned her the title "Nightingale of India," a tribute reportedly popularized by Mahatma Gandhi. Despite writing in English, she incorporated Indian sentiments into her work, bridging the cultural gap between East and West. Her poems, such as "Bangle Sellers" and "Palki Bearers," are widely taught in Indian schools and demonstrate her deep connection to Indian life.

Although Sarojini Naidu achieved considerable success in writing, she gradually turned her attention to political activism. Inspired by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and later becoming closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, she joined the Indian National Congress and became a strong advocate of self-rule.Naidu traveled extensively throughout India, delivering powerful speeches that inspired people to join the freedom struggle. She was known for her eloquence and ability to connect with diverse audiences. She participated in major movements led by Gandhi, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement. During the Salt March of 1930, after Gandhi's arrest, she played a leading role in continuing the protests against the British salt laws.Her activism led to her being imprisoned several times by British authorities. Despite these hardships, she remained steadfast in her commitment to India's independence and to protest without violence.Sarojini Naidu made history in 1925 when she became the first Indian woman to hold the position of President of the Indian National Congress. (Prior to this, British-born activist Annie Besant had also served as Congress President.) Naidu's presidency marked a significant milestone in women's participation in Indian politics and highlighted their leadership abilities.After India gained independence in 1947, she was appointed the first woman Governor of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), making her the first woman to hold a governorship in independent India. In this role, she worked to promote communal harmony and administrative stability during the difficult early years of the country's formation.Throughout her career, she strongly advocated for women's rights, education, and social reform. She believed that women should play an active role in shaping the country's future and consistently encouraged their participation in public life.Sarojini Naidu entered into an inter-caste marriage with Dr. Govindarajulu Naidu in 1898, which was considered a different tradition at the time. Their marriage was a supportive and progressive partnership, and they had several children, including Padmaja Naidu, who later became a political leader in her own right.Sarojini Naidu died on March 2, 1949, while serving as Governor of Uttar Pradesh. Her death ended a life dedicated to poetry, patriotism, and public service.Today, Sarojini Naidu is remembered as a pioneer who broke barriers in both literature and politics.