Sarala Bhave

A pioneering Indian educator who founded India's first women's university and championed girls' education during British colonial rule.

Sarala Bhave (1887–1970) was a visionary educator and social reformer from India, best known for establishing the first women’s university in India, Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey (SNDT) University. Born into a conservative Brahmin family in Maharashtra, she defied societal norms by pursuing education and later dedicating her life to empowering women through education. Her work laid the foundation for gender equality in India, particularly in the early 20th century when women’s education was heavily restricted. Bhave collaborated closely with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, advocating for women’s inclusion in India’s independence movement. Her establishment of SNDT University in 1916 provided a space for women to study disciplines like science and law, which were previously inaccessible to them. Bhave also pioneered the Vanasthali School in 1932, blending Gandhian principles of self-reliance with modern education. Her legacy is celebrated today as a cornerstone of India’s feminist movement. Learn more about her contributions at SNDT University.