Lakshmibai Dey

A pioneering Indian educator who established the first girls' school in India, advocating for women's education in a male-dominated society.

Lakshmibai Dey (1824–1898) was a visionary social reformer and educator from Bengal, India, who made groundbreaking contributions to women's education during the 19th century. Born into a Brahmin family, she defied societal norms by pursuing her own education and later becoming a champion for girls' access to learning.

In 1854, she founded the Hindu Female School in Calcutta, which became India's first institution dedicated to educating girls. This initiative was revolutionary in a society where women were often denied formal education. The school initially faced opposition but gradually gained recognition, with support from progressive thinkers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar.

Lakshmibai's work extended beyond establishing schools. She authored textbooks in Bengali and English, emphasizing the importance of language skills for women. Her advocacy led to the inclusion of girls' education in colonial policies, influencing later reforms. She also collaborated with missionaries and British officials to secure funding and resources for her initiatives.

Her legacy is celebrated in modern India through educational awards and institutions named in her honor. For example, the Lakshmibai Dey Scholarship supports girls from marginalized communities. Her efforts laid the groundwork for the women's rights movements of the 20th century.