Atiya Fayzee; a symbol of Muslim women empowerment in colonial India

Abstract

Recent years have highlighted studies held in the sub continent in the women’s history and gender relations in academia. The rise of the subaltern studies has preceded a revival and recognition of women’s role in history. Men initiated social reform movement and women’s education and considered its relationship to social reforms integral for their survival and advancement this also represented ‘civilizing mission’ towards their womenfolk. Atiya Fayzee (1877- 1967) was one of the women; who was a pioneer in the area of Muslim women’s education and reforms. She opposed purdah norms in the 20th century Indian Muslim society. She rejected the role and limits that were imposed to women and followed a brand new ‘feminist ideal’ which represented shared values betwixt Muslim and western cultures. The life and work of Atiya Fayzee is immensely significant today for the understanding of social reform movement in Colonial India.