Veerasalingam Pantulu

The 'father of Andhra social reform' who abolished child marriage and established India's first women's journal

Veerasalingam Pantulu (1848-1901) was a radical social reformer from Andhra Pradesh, India, best known for his campaigns against child marriage and gender inequality. After witnessing the tragic consequences of child brides during his legal practice, he dedicated his life to social justice:

1. Founded India's first women's magazine Woman's World (1872) to promote female literacy and rights.
2. Organized the first adult marriage in 1879 between 22-year-old couples, defying Brahminical traditions.
3. Established schools for girls and orphanages for widows in a society that ostracized them.

His translation of Charles Dickens' David Copperfield (1883) into Telugu introduced progressive ideas to Indian audiences. Despite facing death threats and financial ruin, he persisted in legal battles against caste discrimination. Modern movements like the Veerasalingam Memorial Trust continue his work, proving his pioneering role in India's social reform movement. His legacy is particularly significant in Andhra Pradesh's gender equity advancements.