Jammu- November 29, 2024, A commemorative event was held in Jammu to honor the death anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, a pioneering social reformer and educator. The gathering was chaired by Madan Lal Chalotra, Chairman of the OBC Department of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), and attended by prominent leaders including Darshan Mehra, General Secretary of the OBC Department JKPCC; Jagdish Kashyap, Joint Secretary of the OBC Department JKPCC; Mohinder Verma, President of Vishwakarma Sabha New Plot Unit; Congress leaders Balwant Katria, Rajan Kashyap, Shusheel Panday, and Joginder Verma.
The event highlighted various facets of Mahatma Jyoti rao Phule’s life and contributions. Phule, born in 1827, was a visionary who dedicated his life to eradicating social injustices and promoting education among the marginalized communities in India. He is renowned for founding the first school for girls in Pune in 1848, challenging the prevailing norms that restricted women’s education. Phule also established the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Seekers of Truth) in 1873, aiming to liberate the oppressed classes from social and economic exploitation.
During the event, speakers like Balwant Kataria emphasized Phule’s relentless efforts in advocating for the rights of women and lower-caste communities. His writings, such as “Gulamgiri” (Slavery), exposed the deep-rooted caste-based discrimination and called for social reforms. Phule’s philosophy of social justice and equality resonated with the attendees, inspiring discussions on the importance of continuing his mission in contemporary society.
Madan Lal Chalotra, in his address, underscored the relevance of Phule’s teachings in today’s context, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities and stressed the need for collective efforts to address these issues. Chalotra also pointed out the significance of education in empowering individuals and communities, aligning with Phule’s vision of an enlightened society.
