Lakshmi Sahgal known as Lakshmi Swaminathan was born on 24th October 1914, in Madras, British India. Raised in a family that valued education and independence, she pursued medicine and received her MBBS degree from Madras Medical College in 1938. As a doctor at the Government Kasturba Gandhi Hospital in Chennai, she witnessed the plight of her country under British rule, inspiring her to join the struggle for India’s freedom.
The Azad Hind Fauj and the Rani of Jhansi Regiment
During the surrender of Singapore to the Japanese in 1942, Lakshmi Sahgal assisted wounded prisoners of war and met members of Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA). She played a crucial role in setting up the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, an all-women brigade named after the iconic Indian warrior queen. Her dedication to the INA and her leadership as Captain Lakshmi made her a prominent figure in the fight against British colonial rule.
Arrest and Post-Independence Activities
Following the defeat of the INA in Burma, Lakshmi Sahgal was arrested by the British in 1945. She remained in captivity until March 1946 when she was sent back to India. After independence, she joined the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and represented the party in the Rajya Sabha. Throughout her life, she actively participated in various relief efforts, medical aid initiatives, and campaigns for social justice.
Personal Life and Legacy
Lakshmi Sahgal married Prem Kumar Sahgal in 1947, settling in Kanpur. Her medical practice continued, and she provided aid to refugees arriving after the Partition of India. She was a staunch atheist and an ardent advocate for women’s rights and social equality. Her daughter, Subhashini Ali, followed in her footsteps as a prominent communist politician and labor activist.
Awards and Recognition
In 1998, Lakshmi Sahgal received the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award from Indian President K. R. Narayanan in recognition of her immense contributions to the nation. In 2010, the University of Calicut bestowed her with an honorary doctorate as a testament to her outstanding achievements and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people.
Conclusion:
Lakshmi Sahgal’s life exemplifies the courage and resilience of Indian revolutionaries who fought for the nation’s independence. As Captain Lakshmi, she inspired women to join the freedom struggle and played a significant role in the INA’s endeavors. Post-independence, her relentless commitment to social causes and the well-being of her fellow citizens earned her admiration and respect. Her legacy lives on as an inspiration to future generations, reminding them of the strength that lies in unity, determination, and the pursuit of justice.
