Includes Index

Rukhmabai Raut was one of India's first female physicians and a prominent early feminist. In this definitive biography, Sudhir Chandra, presents a meticulous account of her life and unparalleled contributions to society. Rukhmabai's involvement in the legendary court case challenging her child marriage, spanning from 1884 to 1888, drew extensive commentary from notable reformers of the time like Bal Gangadhar Tilak. She also figured in thought-provoking opinion pieces from the likes of Rudyard Kipling, and several incisive feminist discussions in British women’s magazines. But while the result of her ultimate appeal to Queen Victoria set a significant precedent, it also set off a public debate rooted in social reform and feminism in the then British-ruled India and England, leading to the enactment of the ‘Age of Consent Act’ in 1891. Ripe with Chandra's astute insights and rigorous research, Rukhmabai: Doctor, Feminist, Revolutionary, offers a comprehensive portrait of one extraordinary woman's journey as a doctor, feminist and revolutionary.