Pioneering Women of Mumbai: Unsung Heroes of Social Reform and Feminism

A walk through Girgaon and Gamdevi highlights the remarkable women who shaped Mumbai's reformist history.

- DEEPA GAHLOT

In the heart of Mumbai, often overshadowed by the fast-paced modern life, lies a treasure trove of untold stories of pioneering women who shaped the course of history through their fierce determination and activism. While we celebrate women achievers and leaders in various fields, many of these unsung heroines, especially those from areas like Girgaon and Gamdevi, remain hidden in the folds of time. Despite their monumental contributions to social reform and women’s empowerment, their names have been largely neglected by mainstream history.

The illuminating WonderWomen walk, conducted by Aniket Kharote of Khaki Tours, threw light on some of these incredible women, as well as the progressive men who stood by them. The late 18th and early 19th centuries, especially in Maharashtra, were marked by a reformist zeal, with a key focus on women’s education and social equality. Yet, the stories of these trailblazing women are seldom told, and their contributions are often relegated to footnotes. The walk began at the Royal Opera House, a venue that, though renowned for its cultural legacy, also tells the story of the unconventional Bal Gandharva. Known for his portrayal of female characters in Sangeet Natak, a form of Marathi musical drama, Bal Gandharva challenged the norms of his time when women were banned from acting in plays. His real-life defiance of societal restrictions was evident in his marriage to Gauharbai Karnataki, a Muslim singer and actress, who was ostracized by Brahmin society. This rebellious act of love against caste and societal norms marked the beginning of an era where such defiance was seen in both art and life.