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#SisterNivedita

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Sister Nivedita: The Irish Teacher Who Fought Plague, Famine & British Rule in India with Compassion

Sister Nivedita, originally Margaret Elizabeth Noble, was an Irish educationist who dedicated her life to serving the people of India. After meeting Swami Vivekananda in 1895, she became his disciple and played a significant role in India's fight against plague, famine, and British rule. Let's delve into the remarkable journey of this compassionate and courageous woman. Early Encounter with Swami Vivekananda: In November 1895, Margaret Noble met Swami Vivekananda, a philosopher and social reformer, during his visit to London. Inspired by his teachings, she became his disciple and received the name Nivedita, meaning 'dedicated to god.' Swami Vivekananda recognized her potential and entrusted her with the task of educating Indian women. Battling the Bubonic Plague: When the bubonic plague hit Calcutta in 1898, Sister Nivedita played a pivotal role in providing relief to the affected. She organized and coordinated relief work, tirelessly aiding the underprivileged. Despite the risks involved, she nursed patients, comforted families, and raised awareness about preventive measures through speeches and handbills. Her dedication and selflessness earned her praise from the community and even the District Medical Officer. Fighting Famine and Floods: Not only did Sister Nivedita battle the plague, but she also extended her support to the victims of famine and floods in Bengal. She tirelessly worked to alleviate the suffering of those affected by these natural disasters. Her relief efforts were highly organized, and she actively involved the local community in cleaning the streets and distributing aid. Her commitment to the cause was unwavering, even when it meant sacrificing her own well-being. Joining India's Freedom Struggle: Sister Nivedita was not only a caregiver but also a freedom fighter. She actively participated in India's struggle for independence from British rule. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda's vision, she advocated for the rights of the poor and marginalized. Through her speeches and appeals for financial aid, she galvanized young Indians to join the freedom movement. Her efforts to empower the masses and fight for justice left a lasting impact on the society. Legacy and Impact: Sister Nivedita's contributions to India's history are undeniably significant. Her dedication to education, relief work, and the freedom struggle continues to inspire generations. Her belief in the power of women and the transformative potential of education shaped her mission in India. Even after her untimely death at the age of 43, her legacy lives on as a symbol of compassion, courage, and resilience. Sister Nivedita's story is one of compassion, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice, making her an icon in India's fight for independence.

16 Feb 2024
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Sister Nivedita - Saga of sacrifice

Sister Nivedita, whose real name was Margaret Nobel had come to India to serve the country even when it was a British colony. She was born to Samuel Nobel a priest and Mary Hamilton on October 28, 1867 in Ireland. Margaret and her sister went to Halifax College where she stayed in the college hostel. Her favorite subject was biology and she was also fond of music and art. Since a very early age she carried the desire to serve others. Her life changed when she met Swami Vivekanand at a friend's place in 1895. She was so influenced by his talks that she decided to leave her homeland and serve the people in India. In 1898, she came to Kolkata and quickly got familiarised with the place and its people. She put in efforts to learn Bengali and studied Bengali literature. On March 25, that year, Swami Vivekananda dedicated her to God and to the service of India. She was also given the name - Nivedita. As part of her mission to serve people, Nivedita started a small school, but found it difficult to get pupils.  It was very difficult to convince parents to send their girls to school in those days, but her persistence changed a few minds and finally she was able to teach a few girl students to read and write. She also guided them in drawing. Soon people began to accept her and they started calling her ' Sister Nivedita'.  When a devastating plague broke out in Kolkata in March 1899, Nivedita worked ceaselessly to free the city from this dangerous menace. She herself took the initiative to clean the roads and drains without any help. Soon the local people joined her and a committee of social workers was formed. Although her tireless work affected her health, she and her team were successful in controlling the spread of the disease. When Nivedita found it difficult to run her school due to lack of funds, she decided to go to the West to collect money. Later she returned and was joined by Christine Greenstidel from Germany in her mission. With her assistance, Nivedita's school started running again and both the ladies continued on their endeavour to educate girls and women. Nivedita's purpose of life was the liberation of India. She became a household name in Bengal and started addressing meetings all over the country exhorting people to join the freedom struggle. Her school was the centre of nationalism and Vande Mataram became the prayer song in her school. She started wearing khadi and spinning charkha became a way of life which was followed by her pupils as well. As Nivedita was artistically inclined, she brought about a revolution in Bengali art. While Indian painters were emulating the West, she goaded them to retain their Indianness and made them aware of their rich cultural heritage and the need to preserve it. Nivedita's life was one of sacrifice for India. She wore herself out through her unbroken, unending toil. Even today, there are many schools in India that are named after her. Let us not forget her supreme sacrifice for India.

5 May 2017
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