Hilla Rustomji Faridoonji facts for kids

Hilla Rustomji Faridoonji (1872–1956) was an important Indian woman who worked hard for education and social change. She believed that everyone, especially women, should have the chance to learn and grow. She was also a strong voice for fairness and equality in society.

Who Was Hilla Faridoonji?

Hilla Rustomji Faridoonji was born in 1872 and lived until 1956. She dedicated her life to improving education in India. She was known as an "educationist," which means someone who works to improve how people learn. She was also a "political activist," meaning she worked to bring about positive changes in society and government.

Helping Women Learn

Hilla Faridoonji played a big role in helping women get an education. She was the secretary of an important group called the Women's Education Fund Association. This group helped raise money and support for schools and colleges for girls and women.

Lady Irwin College

One of her biggest contributions was to Lady Irwin College. This college opened in 1932 and was very important for women's education. Hilla Faridoonji was one of its first administrators. She helped manage the college as its "convenor" and "treasurer." She continued to work for the college until she passed away. In 1954, she even opened a new building for students who were studying for advanced degrees. Today, the main student residence hall at the college is named the Hilla Faridoonji Hall, in her memory.

Working for Fairness and Equality

Hilla Faridoonji was also a strong advocate for social justice. She believed that everyone should be treated equally, no matter their background.

Her Ideas at the All India Women's Conference

In 1931 and 1932, she attended a big meeting called the All India Women's Conference in Madras. At this meeting, she suggested some very important changes. She wanted to remove "caste distinctions," which were old social divisions that separated people. She also wanted to stop "separate schools for different religious sects." This meant she believed all children, regardless of their religion, should go to the same schools together.

Leading the Way

Her ideas were very progressive for her time. In 1935, Hilla Faridoonji became the President of the All India Women's Conference (AIWC). She continued to be a supporter and advisor on the Standing Committee of the Conference for many years.

Important Friends and Connections

Hilla Faridoonji knew many influential people who were also working for change in India. She worked closely with Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, another famous Indian activist. She also became a close friend of Mahatma Gandhi, who was a leader of India's independence movement. These friendships show how important and respected Hilla Faridoonji was in her time.