Women played a critical and multifaceted role in the Indian National Movement, challenging traditional social norms and actively participating in political, social, and revolutionary activities aimed at securing independence from British rule. Their involvement spanned several decades, beginning in the early reformist movements of the 19th century and gaining full momentum during the mass movements of the 20th century. While initially their participation was limited due to societal restrictions and patriarchal norms, women gradually emerged as leaders, organizers, and fighters who shaped the trajectory of the freedom struggle. In the early phases of the freedom movement, women contributed mainly through social reform and education, which indirectly supported the nationalist cause. Reformers like Pandita Ramabai and Savitribai Phule emphasized the importance of female education, upliftment of marginalized communities, and social emancipation. By advocating for literacy and moral reform among women, they created a foundation for women's awareness and political consciousness, which later translated into active involvement in the nationalist movements. These pioneers highlighted the link between social empowerment and political participation, arguing that educated and socially aware women could better contribute to the national cause. The first direct involvement of women in political activities came during the rise of organizations like the Indian National Congress and the early nationalist movements in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Figures like Annie Besant, who led the Home Rule Movement, encouraged women to engage in political discourse and public activism. Women began to attend public meetings, participate in debates, and join political organizations, signaling a shift from private to public roles. Even in conservative households, some women defied societal expectations to contribute to the nationalist cause, often risking social ostracism and personal hardships. The partition of Bengal in 1905 marked a significant turning point in women's participation in the freedom struggle. The Swadeshi Movement, which emphasized boycotting British goods and promoting indigenous products, saw large-scale mobilization of women. Women participated in spinning khadi, organizing boycotts, and leading local protests. Leaders like Sarojini Naidu emerged as prominent figures, combining poetic expression with political activism. Naidu, often called the "Nightingale of India," inspired many women to join processions, rallies, and patriotic campaigns, demonstrating that women could be powerful symbols of resistance. During the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922) initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, women's participation reached unprecedented levels. Gandhi encouraged women