May 11, 2025

Reflections after watching Phule 

Today, I had the opportunity to watch Phule, a powerful biographical film that portrays the lives and work of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule.

Despite having completed my bachelor’s degree at Bareilly College, which is affiliated with Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, I have to admit — I knew very little about Jyotiba Phule’s actual contributions until now. This film was eye-opening. It gave me a deeper understanding of the groundbreaking and courageous work done by Jyotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule, Mian Usman Sheikh and Fatima Sheikh.

Their fight for women’s education was revolutionary. At a time when educating women was considered an act of rebellion, they stood their ground — facing threats, humiliation, and even physical attacks. What feels like a basic right today was once something they had to fight hard for. Their work laid the foundation for future generations of women to access education and opportunities.

The film also highlights their relentless efforts toward the upliftment of the Dalits — a name they gave to those who were historically oppressed under the caste system. Their efforts weren’t just social reforms; they were acts of resistance against a deeply entrenched and unjust system.

One quote from the film stayed with me:

"You know I have a dream... jahan koi pradhan na ho... sab samaan ho."

— Mahatma Jyotiba Phule

This vision — of a society with no hierarchy, where everyone is equal — is still incredibly relevant today.

What struck me even more was the audience’s response during the screening. Every time Mahatma Phule challenged Brahminical dominance, people clapped and cheered. Their reactions weren’t just to the film — they were to their own lived experiences. It was clear that many were connecting Phule’s fight to the discrimination they still face, even after nearly 177 years.

I could feel their emotions — pride, pain, and hope. And it made me reflect on where we stand today as a society. The reality is, India still has a long way to go when it comes to true social equality. Caste-based discrimination, though often more subtle now, still exists. It’s heartbreaking that a fight started in the 19th century is still ongoing.

I truly believe it’s time for our generation to break this cycle. Our ancestors may have unknowingly upheld casteism and superstitions, but we now have the awareness and responsibility to move beyond them. Let’s not carry forward the burdens they struggled to dismantle. Let’s build a future where equality, reason, and compassion lead the way.