AMU Organises Commemorative Programme on Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule

MAHATMA JYOTIBA PHULE

AMU Organises Commemorative Programme on Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule

ALIGARH, April 13: Dr. Ambedkar Chair of Legal Studies and Research, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), organised a commemorative academic programme to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule at the Conference Hall of the Chair.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Syed Ali Nawaz Zaidi, Department of Law, highlighted the enduring relevance of Mahatma Phule’s ideas in the domains of social justice, education and equality. He noted that Phule’s vision continues to inform contemporary legal and social discourse and remains deeply aligned with the constitutional values of India.

In his presidential remarks, Prof. Zafar Ahmad Khan, Chair Professor and Incharge of the Chair, emphasised the importance of revisiting the contributions of pioneering social reformers like Mahatma Phule in the present context. He stressed the need to promote sustained academic dialogue and research aimed at advancing the principles of justice, equality and inclusiveness in society.

The programme witnessed active participation from research scholars and students, who engaged thoughtfully in the discussions.

The proceedings were conducted by Mr. Kamran Rais, Doctoral Fellow.

Fatima Sheikh was a pioneering 19th-century educator and social reformer, widely recognized as India's first Muslim woman teacher. She is best remembered for her critical collaboration with Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule in championing education for women and marginalized, lower-caste communities. [1, 2, 3]

Their historic partnership and friendship changed the landscape of education in India through several key milestones:

• Life-Saving Refuge: When Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule were evicted from their ancestral home for their radical views on education and caste, Fatima Sheikh and her brother, Usman Sheikh, welcomed the couple into their home. [1]
• Founding the First Girls' School: In 1848, the Sheikh residence was used to establish one of the first indigenous schools for girls and children from marginalized sections of society. [1, 2]
• Teaching and Advocacy: Fatima Sheikh trained alongside Savitribai Phule. She taught at all the schools founded by the Phules and went door-to-door to convince families to educate their daughters, despite severe social backlash and threats from conservatives. [1, 2, 3]
• Intersectional Legacy: Their alliance broke down severe religious and caste barriers of the time, proving that marginalized communities could unite to fight for equality and civil rights. [1, 2, 3, 4]