Anjalai Ammal (1890–1961) Introduction Freedom fighter Anjalai Ammal's birth anniversary on June 1. Anjalai Ammal was an Indian freedom fighter, social reformer, and politician from Cuddalore. She actively participated in India's freedom struggle. She spent about 7½ years in prison for her involvement in the independence movement. She was among the first women elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. She was elected as a Congress MLA in 1937 and 1946. Role in the Freedom Movement Joined the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921. Participated in: Neil Statue Satyagraha(1927) Salt Satyagraha(1930) Quit India Movement(1942) Her bravery earned her the title Jhansi Rani of South India" from Mahatma Gandhi. Meeting with Gandhi When Gandhi visited Cuddalore to meet her, the British government tried to prevent the meeting. Anjalai Ammal successfully met Gandhi by disguising herself in a burqa. She encouraged her nine-year-old daughter to participate in freedom protests. Gandhi named her daughter Leelavathy. Imprisonment and Sacrifices Arrested several times for participating in nationalist activities. In 1930, she was arrested for picketing foreign goods shops in Madras. During her court appearance, she defended herself and criticized police actions against protesters. In 1932, she was imprisoned in Vellore Prison while pregnant. Released temporarily for childbirth. Returned to prison within two weeks after giving birth. She gave birth to her last son during her period of imprisonment. Women’s Leadership Presided over the All India Women Congress Meet in 1931. Worked to encourage women's participation in the freedom movement. Political Career After Independence, she continued in public life. Elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly three times. Served as a Congress representative. Family Contributions Her husband Murugappa, daughter Leelavathy, and son-in-law Jamadhagni were also freedom fighters. Death Passed away on 20 February 1961. Remembered as one of Tamil Nadu's prominent women freedom fighters and political leaders. The…
