Begum Zubeida Daoodi (1886-1972), also spelt as Zubaida Begum Daudi, was a formidable freedom fighter in Bihar who defied societal norms to play a crucial role in the struggle against British rule. As the wife of the noted Bihar nationalist and lawyer, Shafi Daoodi, she was not merely a passive supporter but a dynamic leader who mobilised women, managed nationalist educational initiatives, and faced the perils of anti-colonial protest.
Her life was deeply embedded in the political fervour of the early 20th century. Their home in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, was a nerve centre for nationalist activities, particularly during the Non-Cooperation (1920-22) and Khilafat Movements. When her husband, following Mahatma Gandhi’s call, renounced his lucrative legal practice to dedicate himself to the freedom struggle, Zubeida Begum stepped forward to become a pillar of the movement in her own right. Together, they raised nine children in an environment where personal sacrifice for the nation’s cause was a daily reality.
Zubeida Begum’s most significant contribution was her work among the Parda nashin (veiled) Muslim women of her community. In an era of strict social conservatism, she courageously brought these women out of their homes and into the political mainstream, educating them about the nationalist cause and encouraging their participation. Her leadership qualities shone brightly when Shafi Daoodi was arrested for his political activities. Rather than retreating, Zubeida Begum, alongside the revered pan-Islamic figure Bi Amman (mother of the Ali Brothers), took to the public stage, addressing large gatherings and ensuring the movement’s momentum did not falter.
A key aspect of the non-cooperation strategy was the boycott of British institutions, including schools. To provide an alternative, nationalist schools were established across the country. Zubeida Begum took on the immense responsibility of managing one such school for students who had answered the call for a boycott. She went beyond an administrative role, personally ensuring that the students were provided with food and other essential support. This act demonstrated her deep commitment to the Gandhian constructive program, which focused on building self-reliant national institutions.
As an active protester and the wife of a prominent leader who was frequently imprisoned, Begum Zubeida Daoodi endured the constant threat of state repression, including lathi charges and imprisonment, for her steadfast adherence to Congress ideals. Her legacy is that of a trailblazer who fought on two fronts: against the British Empire and against the patriarchal constraints of her time. Her courage, leadership, and dedication to nurturing the next generation of patriots mark her as a vital, yet often unsung, heroine of India’s struggle for independence.