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Janakidevi Bajaj
जानकीदेवी बजाज
The devoted wife of Jamnalal Bajaj — a soldier of the freedom movement
Years
1893 – 1979
Known as
Janakidevi Bajaj — the wife of Jamnalal Bajaj
Birthplace
Wardha, Maharashtra
Field
Freedom Fighters
“The freedom of Bhārat is my family's cause — and I will serve it with my whole heart.”
— Janakidevi Bajaj
The Story
Born in 1893 and married to Jamnalal Bajaj, the industrialist whom Gandhi called his fifth son, Janakidevi was drawn into the freedom movement by her husband's dedication. Together they became part of the innermost circle of Gandhi's ashram life at Wardha, and she took up the disciplines of the movement — khadi, simplicity, and service.
When the salt satyagraha came in 1930, Janakidevi marched and picketed, and she was arrested and imprisoned for the nation. Through the civil disobedience and Quit India movements she continued to serve — organising women, working for the removal of untouchability, and supporting the struggle with the resources of her family.
After independence, she continued the work of service and philanthropy, and in 1970 she was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for her contribution. She died in 1979, remembered as one of the great women of the freedom movement — the companion of one of its greatest servants.
Core Ideas
The Gandhian Household
Her home at Wardha was the heart of the movement.
The Salt Satyagrahi
She marched and was arrested in 1930.
The Prisoner
She served imprisonment for the nation.
The Organiser of Women
She led women's work in the struggle.
Padma Vibhushan
The republic honoured her service in 1970.
Why it matters today
Janakidevi Bajaj is remembered as one of the great women of the freedom movement — the companion of Jamnalal Bajaj who served the nation with her whole heart. Her name is honoured in the history of the movement, and her life remains an example of the families who gave everything for the freedom of Bhārat.