The Mother of the Indian Revolution
A Parsi revolutionary who unfurled India’s first flag on foreign soil.
A Life of Exile and Activism
Bhikaji Cama was a prominent figure in the Indian freedom struggle, known for her revolutionary activities from abroad. Forced into exile by the British, she spent her life in Europe, campaigning tirelessly for India’s independence and inspiring many young Indians to join the revolutionary cause. She is widely regarded as the “Mother of the Indian Revolution.”
1907
Unfurled
First Indian Flag
Stuttgart
Location
of Flag Unfurling
A Journey of a Nation-Builder: A Timeline
1896: Social Work in Bombay
She became involved in social work, assisting plague victims in Bombay, where she herself contracted the disease. She was sent to Europe for medical treatment, a journey that would change her life.
1907: Stuttgart Declaration
At the International Socialist Congress in Stuttgart, Germany, she unfurled the first version of the Indian flag, a tricolor with eight lotuses representing the eight provinces of British India.
1909: “Vande Mataram” Newspaper
She started the revolutionary newspaper `Vande Mataram` in Paris, which was smuggled into India to spread the message of independence and inspire resistance.
1935: Return to India
After decades in exile, she was allowed to return to India on the condition that she would not participate in political activities. She passed away shortly after her return, having given her life for her nation’s freedom.