Kasturba Gandhi (1869-1944), also known as Kasturba Mohandas Gandhi, was the wife of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. Kasturba played a significant role in the struggle for India’s freedom and was a strong advocate for social and political change. Here is an overview of her life and contributions:

1. Early Life and Marriage: Kasturba was born on April 11, 1869, in Porbandar, India, the same place as Mahatma Gandhi. She married Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1882 when she was only 13 years old. The marriage was arranged, as was customary in those times.
2. Participation in the Freedom Movement: Kasturba Gandhi actively participated in her husband’s social and political activities. She supported Gandhi in his campaigns for civil rights, social reforms, and Indian independence. She became deeply involved in the Indian freedom struggle and played an essential role in organizing protests and marches.
3. Promotion of Khadi and Handspinning: Kasturba Gandhi was a staunch supporter of the use of khadi (handspun cloth) as a symbol of self-reliance and economic independence. She encouraged the use of khadi as part of the Swadeshi Movement, which aimed at boycotting foreign goods.
4. Imprisonment: Like her husband, Kasturba Gandhi was imprisoned multiple times during the freedom struggle. She faced arrests, often for participating in peaceful protests and acts of civil disobedience.
5. Championing Women’s Rights: Kasturba was an advocate for women’s rights and played a role in mobilizing women to participate in the independence movement. She believed that women should have an equal role in shaping India’s future.
6. Personal Sacrifices: Kasturba made significant personal sacrifices for the cause of India’s independence. She endured hardships and separations from her husband and children as a result of their involvement in the freedom struggle.
7. Death: Kasturba Gandhi passed away on February 22, 1944, in the Aga Khan Palace in Pune, India, where she was detained along with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders during the Quit India Movement. Her death deeply affected her husband and the entire nation.

Kasturba Gandhi is remembered as a symbol of selflessness, sacrifice, and commitment to the principles of non-violence and social justice. She played an essential role in supporting her husband and in contributing to the Indian independence movement. Her life and contributions continue to inspire people in India and around the world, particularly those who work for social and gender equality.