Cinemaazi remembers Savitribai Phule on her death anniversary
An educational and social reformer, Savitribai Phule is one of the most important feminist figures in history. Born in Naigaon, Maharashtra, she was married to Jyotirao Phule at the young age of nine. Possessing an immense desire to learn, she learnt how to read and write with the help of her husband. After undergoing teacher's training, she and her husband opened a school for girls in 1848. A radical act in those days, she faced immense violence from society as she raised her voice against prevalent caste and gender norms. They even dug a well in their backyard as dalits were not allowed to drink from the village well. She worked tirelessly for the betterment of widows and child brides. Today is her death anniversary.
Unlike freedom fighters, reformers like Phule have had few cinematic representations. The earliest example one can think of is legendary Marathi writer P K Atre's biopic Mahatma Phule (1954), which featured her as a key character. The film received the National Award for Best Film in Marathi. Sushama Deshpande adapted her celebrated solo theatre act Vhay, Mi Savitribai for the screen in 1992. A television series based on her life was produced as Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule in 2016. The most recent adaptation is a Kannada film, Savitribai Phule (2018) which featured the Kannada star Tara in the titular role. Here is hoping we see more faithful cinematic incarnations of an icon of Indian history.
Image courtesy: Indian Express
