Madam Bhikaiji Cama — Veer Gatha

Bhikaiji Cama was a nationalist who worked for Indian independence from Europe for more than three decades. At the International Socialist Congress in Stuttgart in August 1907 she unfurled a flag of Indian independence and called for India’s freedom before an international audience.

Early life and background

Born into a prosperous Parsi family in Bombay, Bhikaiji Patel was educated at the Alexandra Native Girls’ English Institution. She married Rustom Cama in 1885. She volunteered during the plague epidemic in Bombay in 1896, fell ill herself, and went to Europe for treatment.

Historical context

In London and Paris she joined Indian nationalists including Dadabhai Naoroji, Shyamji Krishna Varma and S. R. Rana, at a time when Indians abroad were organising to bring the case for independence to international attention.

Key achievements

At the International Socialist Congress in Stuttgart on 22 August 1907 she unfurled a tricolour flag of Indian independence. From Paris she helped publish nationalist literature and supported revolutionaries.

Important events and milestones

1896 Volunteers during the Bombay plague epidemic.
1902 Travels to Europe.
22 August 1907 Unfurls a flag of Indian independence at Stuttgart.
1935 Returns to India after decades in exile.
13 August 1936 Dies in Bombay.

Awards and honours

India Post issued a commemorative stamp in 1962. Roads and institutions across India bear her name.

Later life

Barred for many years from returning to India, she came home in 1935, gravely ill, and died in Bombay in 1936.

Enduring legacy

Madam Cama carried the case for Indian freedom to Europe at a time when few women held public political roles, and her Stuttgart flag remains a cherished symbol.

References

Portrait: Photograph · Unknown · Public domain · Source

This account is compiled from the sources listed and is offered as a tribute, not as an official record. Corrections are welcome at connect@vedacloud.ai.