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Rani Rashmoni
Context:
231st Birth Anniversary of Rani Rashmoni.
About:
- Rani Rashmoni, born on September 28, 1793, in Halisahar, Bengal, emerged as a significant figure in the social reform movement during the colonial period in India.
- She was not a queen by birth but earned the title due to her immense contributions to society and her leadership qualities.
- Her life is marked by her resilience against patriarchy and her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice.
Early Life and Marriage:
- Rani Rashmoni was married to Raj Chandra Das, a progressive zamindar who encouraged her involvement in business and social causes.
- Together, they built a fortune while prioritising public welfare, including constructing water reservoirs and soup kitchens for the needy.
- After her husband’s death in 1830, Rashmoni faced societal stigma as a widow but took over the family’s business, which was an exceptional act for women of her time.
Contributions to Social Reforms:
- Advocacy Against Social Ills: She actively fought against practices like polygamy, child marriage, and sati (the practice of widow immolation). Rashmoni submitted a draft bill against polygamy to the East India Company, aligning herself with prominent reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.
- Empowerment Through Education: She established schools aimed at empowering women and advocated for their involvement in social reforms. This initiative was part of her broader vision of uplifting marginalised communities.
- Founding of Dakshineshwar Kali Temple: Rashmoni founded the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, which became a significant religious site. Despite facing opposition from Brahmins who refused to serve as priests due to her lower caste status, she appointed Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa as the chief priest, showcasing her defiance against caste discrimination.
Resistance Against Colonial Rule:
- Legal Battles: She challenged oppressive taxes imposed on fishermen by taking a lease on riverine areas and barricading them to protect local livelihoods. This strategic move forced the Company to abolish the fishing tax and recognise the rights of local fisherfolk.
- Public Processions: During Durga Puja celebrations, when British authorities attempted to suppress religious processions, she defied their orders. Her actions not only reinforced cultural practices but also demonstrated her leadership in mobilising public sentiment against colonial oppression.
Legacy:
- Rani Rashmoni is remembered as a pioneering figure who championed women’s rights and social justice during a time of significant societal constraints.
- Her life exemplifies how one woman’s determination can challenge deep-rooted patriarchal norms and colonial oppression. She remains an inspirational figure in Indian history, often referred to as “Lokmata” or “Mother of the People”, reflecting her deep connection with the community she served.