Mahatma Jyotiba Phule: A pioneer in the emancipation of Bahujan Shudras

By Dr. Kapilendra Das*

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, a visionary social activist, thinker, philosopher, educator, reformer, writer, theologian, and emancipator, was revered by the common people of India as a "Mahatma." Born on April 11, 1827, in Katgun village, Khatav Taluka, Satara district of Maharashtra, Phule belonged to the Mali caste, categorized as Shudra (lower caste) under the Indian varna system.

The 19th century in India was marked by severe social challenges such as rigid caste structures, widespread inequality, religious orthodoxy, untouchability, and ignorance of basic human rights. The Shudras, confined to hard, menial labor, were denied social mobility and fundamental dignity. It was in this backdrop that Jyotiba Phule emerged as a beacon of hope, striving to dismantle these oppressive structures.

The singular aim of Mahatma Phule’s life was the emancipation of the Shudras (Bahujans). He fought tirelessly against the unjust caste system, championed education, and advocated for the rights and upliftment of the Bahujans.

Historically, the term "Bahujan" was first used by Gautam Buddha in the 6th century BCE, meaning "the majority of people." This majority, born out of the caste stratification of Hindu society, includes Shudras and untouchables—those long marginalized and denied equal opportunities in education, economy, and social status. Even today, Bahujan society continues to struggle for equality, often relying on the upper castes for socio-economic inclusion.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Brahmins held a dominant position in Indian society, being the sole recipients of education and social privileges, while Shudras and other lower castes were systematically excluded. Practices like untouchability alienated Shudras even further, barring them from participating in basic social functions.

An incident in 1848 profoundly impacted Phule's life. Invited to a Brahmin friend's wedding, he faced severe humiliation when the host’s relatives learned of his Mali caste origins. Insulted and mistreated, he left the event deeply disillusioned. This experience galvanized Phule’s resolve to challenge the caste system and dedicate his life to the service of the oppressed.

Phule initiated a mass movement for justice, equality, and liberation. He became the first leader in modern India to advocate for the total emancipation of women, peasants, laborers, and Shudras (Bahujans). He provided powerful arguments for the abolition of untouchability and caste-based oppression, standing firmly for the human rights of the marginalized.

During his time, Bahujans had no political, educational, or economic rights. Phule fought courageously against the entrenched inequities of Hindu society, promoting the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity—values still relevant today as caste and gender discrimination persist.

Inspired by Thomas Paine’s Rights of Man, Phule developed a strong sense of social justice. In 1873, he founded the Satya Shodhak Samaj (Society of Truth Seekers), a revolutionary movement aimed at promoting social equality and challenging religious orthodoxy. The Samaj united Shudras, other Bahujans, and minority communities to fight against discrimination and inequality.

The main objectives of the Satya Shodhak Samaj were:

1. To emancipate Shudras (Bahujans) from Brahminical domination.

2. To liberate them from exploitative religious rituals imposed by Brahmins.

3. To educate and empower Bahujans to understand and claim their rights.

A pioneer in the field of education for women and lower castes, Jyotiba Phule believed that true progress was only possible through education. He famously said:

“Without education, wisdom is lost,

Without wisdom, morals are lost,

Without morals, development is lost,

Without development, wealth is lost,

Without wealth, the Shudras (Bahujans) are ruined.”

Thus, Phule devoted his life, alongside his wife Savitribai Phule, to promoting mass education, especially among women and the oppressed communities. His focus was not merely literacy, but education as a powerful tool for social transformation. In a society where lower castes were denied access to learning, he opened schools for girls and for children from marginalized castes, despite facing tremendous opposition and threats.

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule stands tall among the social reformers and emancipators of 19th-century India. His life was a testament to supreme courage, sincerity, and selfless sacrifice. His efforts laid the foundation for a more equitable society, and his legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice even today. It is due to his tireless work that women and Bahujans today enjoy greater rights and opportunities.

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, a great soul and pioneering reformer, passed away on November 28, 1890, leaving behind a transformative legacy.

---

*Educationist

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