Andhra Mahila Sabha : A Journey of Empowerment

The Andhra Mahila Sabha (AMS) has been a cornerstone of women’s empowerment in Andhra Pradesh, shaped by the contributions of numerous eminent leaders and freedom fighters. Among them, Durgabai Deshmukh, often called the “Iron Lady,” stands out as a pivotal figure. A follower of Mahatma Gandhi, she participated in the Salt Satyagraha and founded AMS as well as other significant social welfare organizations. Durgabai also edited the journal Andhra Mahila, inspiring women to challenge oppressive social norms, and established the Andhra Education Society.

AMS made strides in education with the launch of the Andhra Mahila Sabha Arts & Science College for Women in 1966, initially as an evening college aimed at providing higher education opportunities for working women and housewives in Hyderabad.

Support from Various Sectors

The growth of AMS has been significantly supported by a diverse range of sponsors, trusts, and generous donors. This financial backing has been crucial in providing resources for initiatives that enhance women’s educational and socio-economic status. The collaborative efforts of these contributors, alongside advocacy from prominent leaders, have propelled AMS toward its mission of empowering women. Together, historical figures and modern supporters continue to drive AMS’s vision of a society where women are educated, empowered, and treated as equals.

Eminent Visitors to AMS

Many notable figures have visited AMS and contributed to its mission:

1. Mahatma Gandhi – Offered support in 1946.
2. Jawaharlal Nehru – First Prime Minister of India; a principal supporter of AMS.
3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad – First President of Independent India; supported AMS in 1958.
4. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan – Second President of India; endorsed AMS in 1962.
5. Dr. Zakir Husain – First Vice President of India; contributed in 1963.
6. Babu Jagjivan Ram – Deputy Prime Minister of India; supported AMS initiatives in 1947.
7. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – Responded positively to Durgabai’s request for a library in the Supreme Court.
8. Sarojini Naidu – First woman Governor of Uttar Pradesh; championed women’s issues.
9. Vijay Lakshmi Pandit – Ambassador to the Soviet Union; advocated for women’s rights.
10. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay – Renowned social reformer who supported AMS.
11. Sir C.D. Deshmukh – UGC Chairman (1956-61) and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delhi (1962-67); promoted educational reforms.
12. Suchita Kriplani – First Chief Minister of an Indian state (Uttar Pradesh); proponent of women’s political empowerment.
13. Indira Gandhi – First woman Prime Minister of India; supported social initiatives for women.
14. Dr. B.C. Roy – Second Chief Minister of West Bengal; recognized the importance of women’s development.
15. C. Rajagopalachari – First Indian Governor-General; supported various social causes.
16. Morarji Desai – Fourth Prime Minister of India; acknowledged women’s roles in nation-building.
17. Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu – First Chief Minister of Andhra State; endorsed local initiatives for women’s upliftment.
18. Pattabhi Seetharamaiah – Freedom fighter and founder of Andhra Bank; advocated for women’s rights.
19. M.S. Subbulakshmi – Bharat Ratna recipient and world-renowned Carnatic vocalist; inspired many through her art.
20. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – Former President of India; served as Chief Guest at the annual Momentum event organized by the Department of Physics.