On September 24, 1861, Bhikaji Cama born in a prosperous Parsi family, to the renowned Bombay merchant Sorabji Framji Patel. From an early age, the burgeoning Indian nationalist movement left an indelible mark on her, igniting her passion for political issues.

In 1885, Bhikaji married Rustomji Cama, a prominent lawyer. Yet, their differing views on British rule strained their union. Bhikaji’s fervent nationalism clashed with her husband’s pro-British stance, leading to a troubled marriage. Resolute in her belief that British colonialism had grievously exploited India, she devoted herself to philanthropy and social work.

Bubonic Plague of 1896

Tragedy struck in 1896 when bubonic plague ravaged Bombay. Bhikaji, undaunted, plunged into relief efforts for the afflicted, even contracting the perilous disease herself. Though she triumphed over it, her health was forever altered.

Bhikaji Cama in Europe

In pursuit of respite and rejuvenation, Bhikaji embarked on a journey to Europe in 1902. In London, she encountered luminaries like Dadabhai Naoroji, Lala Har Dayal, and Shyamji Krishnavarma, affiliating herself with the Indian National Congress. Her travels globally disseminated the narrative of India’s struggle for independence and exposed British oppression.

Exile

Authorities in Britain conveyed that her return to India hinged on a pledge to abstain from nationalist activities. Bhikaji stood resolute, She chose continued exile in Europe.

Relocating to Paris in the same year, Bhikaji, alongside Singh Rewabhai Rana and Munchershah Burjorji Godrej, co-founded the Paris Indian Society. Together with fellow expatriate champions of Indian sovereignty, she authored, published, and disseminated revolutionary literature. Which includes the iconic Bande Mataram (a defiant response to the British ban) and later Madan’s Talwar (in protest of Madan Lal Dhingra’s execution).

Despite bans in India and Britain, Bhikaji adeptly dispatched these publications to Indian revolutionaries. Her support extended beyond words, offering financial aid, materials, and strategic guidance. The British authorities found themselves unable to thwart her unwavering commitment.

Making History – The Bhikaji Cama Flag

On August 22, 1907, in Stuttgart, Germany, Madam Bhikaji Cama became the first person to unfurl the Indian flag on foreign soil, as a result her name in history . Her impassioned plea for human rights, equality, and freedom from British dominion reverberated, punctuated by vivid descriptions of a devastating famine that had befallen the Indian subcontinent.

Madam Bhikaji remain in exile until 1935 she got paralysed as a result of a debilitating stroke earlier that year. She beseeched the British government for permission to return to her homeland. In the light of her inability to actively partake in the freedom movement, at last she was allowed to come back to India after a protracted 33-year absence.

Back to the Roots

In November 1935, a 74-year-old Bhikaji finally set foot in Mumbai, but her time was fleeting. Satiated by the sight of her motherland, she passed away nine months later on August 13, 1936. Her personal assets, found its way to the “Avabai Petit Orphanage for girls”. Countless freedom fighters who choose her path of sacrifice have carry on her legacy.