pic: Internet
Tribute to Madam Bhikaji cama on her birth anniversary
Madam Cama was born in 24 September 1861 in Bombay/Mumbai to Sorabji Framji and Jaijibhai Sorabji who were of affluent Parsi community. Her father was advocate by practice and businessman by profession. She studied in Alexandra Girls English Institution. She married Rustom Cama son of social reformer K R Cama. In 1896 Bombay Presidency was hit by Bubonic Plague after a famine. Madam Cama joined many teams of Grant Medical College to help victims. She herself contracted Plague and recovered she was later moved to London in 1902 for medical care as she was weakened.
She planned to return to India in 1904 during which time she met Dadabhai Naoroji, Shyamaji Krishnaji Verma, SR Rana and many Indian Independence activists in London. She helped Shyamaji Krishnaji Verma in establishment of India House. She Supported Indian Home Rule Society in 1905. She was asked by British to sign statement she don’t involve in nationalist activities. She refused and moved to Paris. She established Paris Indian Society. From Paris she published books and revolutionary literature.
It was on 22nd August 1907 she hoisted Indian flag in Stuttgart. She spoke about ill effects of colonialism.The flag which she Unfurled served as template for later flags design in India.It was modelled based on Calcutta Flag. During Savarkar’s escape from ship in Marseilles harbour she tried to help him. Later British asked France to Extradition of Madam Cama but France refused. Influenced by Christabel Parkhurst’s suffragette movement she discussed same with many prominent Indians about Women Rights.
With Outbreak of WW1 Britain and France becoming allies. Madam Cama was arrested for creating Agitation amongst Punjab Regiment and was moved to Vichy. Due to bad health she was asked to visit Bordeaux and finally with the end of war she came to Paris. She continued her activities till 1935 she became gravely ill after the paralysis followed by Stroke earlier that year. Later Sir Cowasji Jehangir signed petition for her return to home. She acceded to requirement and returned to India in Nov 1935. She breathed last in 13 August 1936 in Mumbai.
-Tribute by Srikaanth Sridhar
Srikaanth Sridhar
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