In 19th-century India, Rukhmabai Raut defied societal norms and legal barriers to become the first Hindu woman to secure a legal divorce, paving the way for women’s rights in the country.
NEW DELHI: Even in today’s progressive era, divorce is often stigmatized in certain sections of society. Now, imagine how difficult it must have been for a woman in 19th-century India to break free from an unwanted marriage. One such trailblazer was Rukhmabai Raut, the first Hindu woman to legally obtain a divorce in India. Her journey was far from easy—it involved a prolonged legal battle, societal opposition, and even the intervention of Queen Victoria, who ultimately ruled in her favor.
A Marriage Against Her Will
Born in 1864, Rukhmabai Raut was married off at the tender age of 11 to Dadaji Bhikaji, a 19-year-old man, as per the prevailing customs of child marriage. However, unlike many young brides of her time, she did not resign herself to a life dictated by societal norms. Instead of moving in with her husband’s family, she continued living with her mother and stepfather, who strongly supported her education.
As she pursued her studies, her husband demanded that she come and live with him. When she refused, he took legal action, filing a case against her in 1884, asserting his right over her as his wife.
A Landmark Legal Battle
Rukhmabai, in her defense, challenged the very concept of forced cohabitation, arguing that she had been too young to give consent at the time of marriage. Her bold stance sent shockwaves through conservative Indian society, where many saw her as a woman corrupted by Western education.
In 1887, the court issued a controversial verdict: either Rukhmabai had to live with her husband or face six months in prison. In an act of incredible defiance, she chose imprisonment over a life she did not consent to—a decision that made national and international headlines.
Queen Victoria’s Intervention
As Rukhmabai’s case gained widespread attention, she began writing for The Times of India under the pseudonym “A Hindu Lady.” In her writings, she fiercely advocated for gender equality, women’s rights, and social reform. Her powerful words caught the attention of none other than Queen Victoria, the British monarch at the time. Moved by Rukhmabai’s plight, Queen Victoria personally intervened, resulting in a historic ruling that granted Rukhmabai a divorce—a first for a Hindu woman in India.
A Victory Beyond Personal Freedom
Rukhmabai’s case was a significant milestone in the fight against child marriage. Her struggle helped spark discussions on the age of consent, eventually leading to legislative reforms that raised the minimum marriage age for girls. But her impact didn’t end with this victory.
Determined to pursue her dreams, Rukhmabai moved to London to study medicine at the London School of Medicine for Women. After completing her education, she returned to India and served as the Chief Medical Officer at the Women’s Hospital in Surat for 35 years. She thus became one of the first Indian women doctors in Western medicine, inspiring generations of women to break barriers and follow their ambitions.
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Rukhmabai Raut’s story is one of extraordinary courage and perseverance. At a time when women were expected to conform, she stood up against oppressive traditions and fought for her right to choose her own path. Her struggle not only granted her freedom but also paved the way for future generations of women to demand education, equality, and autonomy over their own lives.
Her life is a testament to the power of determination, education, and fearless resistance against injustice. If you know someone who needs a dose of inspiration, share Rukhmabai Raut’s remarkable story with them today!
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