Dakshayani Velayudhan Digital Archive
for Constitutionalism and Gender Rights
The making of the Indian Constitution was a significant and collaborative effort, involving the contributions of many individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women. While women were not as prominently represented as men in the Constituent Assembly, there were notable female figures who played crucial roles in the process. While the number of women in the Constituent Assembly was relatively low, their influence and contributions were impactful. The Indian Constitution itself reflects principles of equality and justice, which includes provisions for gender equality, and women have continued to play vital roles in shaping and interpreting the legal framework of the country. This is an intervention to mark that unmarked contributions
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AMMU SWAMINATHAN
Ammu Swaminathan, born in 1894 in Palakkad, Kerala, embarked on a journey that encompassed various facets of social and political activism. Her pursuit of English education and subsequent move to Madras following her marriage to S. Swaminathan marked the beginning of her involvement in the political and women’s rights movement. KEY INFORMATION Party Indian National…
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ANNIE MASCARENE
Annie Mascarene’s life, spanning from June 6, 1902, to July 19, 1963, is a testament to her trailblazing journey in the political landscape of Kerala and India. Born into a Latin Catholic family in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, she broke gender barriers and became a prominent figure in the fight for independence and the framing of India’s…
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B. V. NAGARATHNA
Born on 30 October 1962 into a family with a legal legacy, Justice B.V. Nagarathna is the daughter of E.S. Venkataramiah, the 19th Chief Justice of India. She attended Sophia High School, Bangalore, and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New Delhi. After completing her Bachelor of Arts in history from Jesus and Mary College, New Delhi, in…
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BEGUM AIZAZ RASUL
Begum Aizaz Rasul, born into the princely family of Malerkotla, Punjab, exhibited early political engagement. Her life unfolds as follows: Early Life: Born on April 2, 1909, in Punjab. Involved in politics from a young age, attending conferences with her father and serving as his secretary. Defied traditional norms like the purdah system. Role in…
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DAKSHAYANI VELAYUDHAN
Biography Dakshayani Velayudhan, a trailblazer in many aspects, unfolded her life as follows: Early Life: Born on July 4, 1912, on the island of Bolgatty of Cochin. Leader of oppressed Classes and the first woman from Scheduled Castes to graduate in India. Science graduate, belonging to the Pulaya community. Attribute Information Full Name Dakshayani Velayudhan…
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DURGABAI DESHMUKH
Durgabai: A Visionary Leader and Freedom Fighter Durgabai Deshmukh, born on July 15, 1909, in Rajahmundry, was not just a political figure but a beacon of inspiration in India’s tumultuous journey towards independence. As a key member of the Indian National Congress, her legacy transcends political boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the nation. Aspect…
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HANSA JIVRAJ MEHTA
Born on July 3, 1897, to the Dewan of Baroda Manubhai Nandshankar Mehta, Hansa Mehta studied journalism and sociology in England. Along with being a reformer, social activist, and educator, she was also the granddaughter of Nandshankar Mehta, the author of the first Gujarati novel Karan Ghelo. She participated in various freedom movements aligned with…
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JUSTICE BELA MADHURYA TRIVEDI
Justice Bela Madhurya Trivedi, born on 10 June 1960, is a prominent judge of the Supreme Court of India. Her judicial career has spanned various high courts, with notable service in the Gujarat High Court before her elevation to the highest judicial authority in the country. Aspect Details Full Name Bela Madhurya Trivedi Date of…
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JUSTICE GYAN SUDHA MISRA
Justice Gyan Sudha Misra, born on 3 June 1941, is a distinguished former judge of the Supreme Court of India. Throughout her illustrious career, she has left an indelible mark on the Indian judiciary, demonstrating unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and social causes. Aspect Details Full Name Gyan Sudha Misra Date of Birth Not…
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JUSTICE HIMA KOHLI
Justice Hima Kohli, born on 2 September 1959, is a distinguished judge of the Supreme Court of India. Her illustrious career is marked by significant achievements, including serving as the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court, where she made history as the first woman to hold this esteemed position. Aspect Details Full Name Hima…