Early Life and Awakening
Born: April 11, 1827, in the Mali caste, traditionally gardeners and florists.
A Brahmin wedding insult in 1848 made him realise the deep caste-based discrimination in society.
Influenced by Western thinkers like Thomas Paine (Age of Reason) and inspired by missionary work (like Cynthia Farrar’s girls’ school in Ahmednagar).
Champion of Education and Women’s Rights
In 1848, Jyotiba and his wife Savitribai Phule started India’s first school for girls.
They went on to open 18 more schools in just 3 years, and also started night schools for workers and farmers.
Faced strong opposition from upper-caste communities but continued the fight for education and equality.
Social Reformer and Anti-Caste Activist
Founded Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Truth-Seekers) in 1873 to promote equality and fight Brahminical dominance.
In his book Gulamgiri (Slavery), he compared the caste system to American slavery, calling out the brutal oppression of Dalits and Shudras.
Argued that caste is man-made, not divine, and asked: "Who are the Brahmins among donkeys or crows?"
Progressive Religious Views
In Satsar (The Essence of Truth), Phule criticized all religions for containing bias and manipulation. He said religious books often serve the interests of dominant groups.
Called for a universal religion of humanity and rejected sectarian hatred.
In Manav Mahammand (Muhammad the Man), he praised Prophet Muhammad as a liberator who fought against superstition and religious oppression.
Defended the right of Pandita Ramabai to convert to Christianity, showing his support for freedom of belief.
Political and Economic Views
Opposed the 1857 revolt, believing it would restore upper-caste rule (like during the Peshwas).
Advocated working with the British to improve conditions for Dalits and women.
In Shetkaryanche Asud (Farmer’s Whip), he suggested:
Scientific farming, irrigation, and use of soldiers for civil works.
Stopping cow slaughter for religious reasons alone—focus on economic utility.
Allowing farmers to use natural resources like river silt and grazing lands.
Stance on Gender Equality
Strongly criticized polygamy by men and questioned why women couldn’t do the same—highlighted double standards.
Advocated education and freedom for women, calling for equal treatment and respect.
Lasting Legacy
Phule’s ideas were rational, progressive, and humanistic.
He envisioned a society free of caste, gender, and religious oppression.
His life and writings remain powerful tools in anti-caste, women’s rights, and social justice movements today.
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