Kasturba Gandhi was born on April 11, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, India, to Gokuladas Makanji and Vrajkunwerba. She grew up in a wealthy family and was well-educated for a girl of her time.
In 1883, at the age of 14, Kasturba was married to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who was also known as Mahatma Gandhi. The couple had four sons: Harilal, Manilal, Ramdas, and Devdas.
Throughout her life, Kasturba played an active role in the Indian independence movement alongside her husband. She supported him during his various protests and movements, including the Salt Satyagraha, where she was arrested and imprisoned. She was also an active participant in various social and educational movements, and helped establish schools and ashrams for girls.
In addition to her involvement in the freedom struggle, Kasturba was also active in various social and educational movements. She helped establish schools and ashrams for girls and worked to improve the lives of women in India. She was a strong advocate for women’s rights and fought against child marriage and other social injustices.
Kasturba faced many challenges throughout her life, including her husband’s long absences and imprisonment, the loss of her children, and her own health problems. She suffered from chronic bronchitis and other illnesses, which ultimately led to her death on February 22, 1944, at the age of 74.
Kasturba Gandhi had a strong connection with the Sabarmati Ashram, which was established by her husband, Mahatma Gandhi, in 1915. The ashram served as a center for the Indian independence movement and was a place where the Gandhis and their followers lived and worked towards the goal of Indian independence. Kasturba lived with Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram for several years, and they continued to use the ashram as a base for their activities even after moving to other locations.
At the Sabarmati Ashram, Kasturba played an active role in various movements and protests alongside her husband, including the Salt Satyagraha, which saw her being imprisoned for her participation. The ashram also served as a center for various social and educational movements, including the establishment of schools and ashrams for girls, which Kasturba helped to set up.
Today, the Sabarmati Ashram is a museum dedicated to the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi, showcasing various artifacts and memorabilia related to him and his associates, including Kasturba. The museum includes photographs, letters, and personal items related to the couple’s life and their contribution to the Indian independence movement. The ashram continues to be a popular tourist attraction, and a place of pilgrimage for those who admire the Gandhis and their principles of non-violence and social justice.
Kasturba’s support for Mahatma Gandhi and her own involvement in the Indian independence movement made her a symbol of strength and resilience for many women in India and around the world. Her life and work continue to inspire people to this day.