Rukhmabai

Rukhmabai was an eminent Indian woman who played a pivotal role in the Age of Consent Act, 1891. She was one of the first practicing female doctors in colonial India.

Early Life

Rukhmabai was born in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1864. Her father died when she was young, and her mother later remarried. At the age of 11, Rukhmabai was married to Dadaji Bhikaji, a man much older than her. However, she continued to live with her mother and stepfather.

Age of Consent Controversy

In 1884, Dadaji Bhikaji filed a case in the Bombay High Court demanding Rukhmabai to live with him, invoking the Hindu law. Rukhmabai refused, leading to a public outcry and debate about child marriages and consent. The case, known as Rukhmabai Case, was a landmark in the history of Indian and British law.

Medical Career

Inspired by the case, Rukhmabai decided to study medicine. She went to England and studied at the London School of Medicine for Women. She returned to India in 1894 and served as the Chief Medical Officer at a hospital in Surat for 35 years.

Death

Rukhmabai died in 1955 in Bombay. Her life and work have been an inspiration for many, and she is remembered as a pioneer in the fight for women's rights in India.

See Also

• Age of Consent Act
• Women in medicine
• Child marriage in India

References

Rukhmabai Resources
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