Published: 12 February 2026PIB / DD News / Multiple sourcesGovernance
India Celebrates Sarojini Naidu Birth Anniversary: First Woman Governor and President of Indian National Congress
India observed the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu on February 13, 2026. Born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, Sarojini Naidu — known as the 'Nightingale of India' (Bharat Kokila) for her literary contributions — was one of the most distinguished women in Indian history who combined literary brilliance with fierce nationalist commitment.
She became the first Indian woman to serve as President of the Indian National Congress in 1925 and was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, participating in key freedom movement milestones including the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Salt March (Dandi March, 1930). After independence, she was appointed the first woman Governor of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) in 1947, serving until her death on March 2, 1949.
Her notable works include 'The Golden Threshold' (1905), 'The Bird of Time' (1912), and 'The Broken Wing' (1917). Her poetry drew heavily from Indian classical traditions and celebrated the natural landscape, seasons, and womanhood. February 13 is also observed as Rashtriya Mahila Diwas (National Women's Day) in India in her honour, distinct from International Women's Day on March 8. For Rajasthan, her legacy is significant in the context of women's empowerment and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.
0Mains angle
Q: Discuss Sarojini Naidu's contributions to India's freedom movement and her significance as first woman INC President and first woman Governor.
Answer (50 words):
Born February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad, Sarojini Naidu became the first woman President of the Indian National Congress in 1925. She joined the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and 1930 Dandi March. After independence, she served as first woman Governor of the United Provinces from 1947 until 1949.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is February 13 celebrated as Rashtriya Mahila Diwas (National Women's Day) in India?
February 13 is celebrated as Rashtriya Mahila Diwas in India to honour the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, born on February 13, 1879. Naidu was a pioneering poet, freedom fighter, and the first woman to hold the Presidency of the Indian National Congress (1925) and the Governorship of a state (United Provinces, 1947).
What was Sarojini Naidu's role in the Indian independence movement?
Sarojini Naidu was a prominent leader in India's freedom struggle. She participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt March (Dandi March), Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement (1942). She also presided over the INC annual session in 1925 at Kanpur, becoming the first woman to do so, and played a key role in mobilising women across India for the national cause.
Why was Sarojini Naidu called the 'Nightingale of India'?
Sarojini Naidu earned the title 'Nightingale of India' (Bharat Kokila) for her exceptional poetry. Her notable works include 'The Golden Threshold' (1905), 'The Bird of Time' (1912), and 'The Broken Wing' (1917). Her lyrical poetry, rich with imagery of Indian landscapes and traditions, was celebrated both in India and internationally.
What historic governance milestone did Sarojini Naidu achieve after independence?
After India's independence, Sarojini Naidu was appointed as the Governor of United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) in 1947, becoming the first woman Governor in independent India. She held the position until her death on March 2, 1949, making her a trailblazer in post-independence Indian governance.
How is Sarojini Naidu's legacy relevant to RPSC RAS exam preparation?
Sarojini Naidu is highly relevant to RAS exam topics on Indian history, freedom movement, women's empowerment, and constitutional/political milestones. Her firsts — first woman INC President, first woman Governor — are frequently tested facts. Her birth anniversary as Rashtriya Mahila Diwas also links to current affairs and social welfare topics in the RAS syllabus.
