Fatima Jinnah

Fatima jinnah1

Fatima Jinnah (30 July 1893 – 9 July 1967) was a Pakistani dental surgeon, biographer, stateswoman, and one of the leading founders of Pakistan. She was the younger sister of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder and the first Governor-General of Pakistan. Fatima Jinnah is affectionately known as the Mother of the Nation for her role in the Pakistan Movement, which led to the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

Early Life and Education

Fatima Jinnah was born in Karachi, then part of the Bombay Presidency of British India. She was the youngest of seven children. Her father, Jinnah Poonja, was a prosperous merchant. After her mother's death in 1902, her brother Muhammad Ali Jinnah became her guardian. She joined the Bandra Convent in Bombay in 1902. Later, she was admitted to the highly competitive University of Calcutta where she studied dentistry.

Career

After completing her education, Fatima Jinnah returned to Bombay, where she opened her dental clinic in 1923. She was among the first Muslim women to practice dentistry in India. However, her career took a backseat as she entered the political arena to support her brother's quest for an independent Pakistan.

Political Involvement

Fatima Jinnah initially remained in the background, managing her brother's household and accompanying him to various political events. Her active political involvement began in 1938 when she was appointed to the Working Committee of the All India Muslim League. She played a significant role in the Pakistan Movement, advocating for the rights of women and emphasizing their role in nation-building. After the creation of Pakistan in 1947, she co-founded the Pakistan Women's Association which played a crucial role in the settlement of the women migrants in the newly formed country.

Presidential Campaign

In 1965, Fatima Jinnah ran for President of Pakistan as a candidate of the Combined Opposition Party, challenging the military dictator Ayub Khan. Her campaign was marked by massive public support and she was seen as a symbol of democracy and resistance against dictatorship. Despite her popularity, she lost the election, which was widely criticized for being rigged.

Death and Legacy

Fatima Jinnah died on 9 July 1967 in Karachi. Her death was mourned across Pakistan, and she was buried next to her brother in Karachi. Today, Fatima Jinnah's legacy lives on as a symbol of courage and determination in the face of adversity. She is remembered for her significant contribution to the Pakistan Movement and her role in empowering women in the newly formed country.

See Also

• Muhammad Ali Jinnah
• Pakistan Movement
• Women in Pakistan

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