Lakshmi Sahgal, also known as Captain Lakshmi, was a prominent Indian independence activist, freedom fighter, and politician. She was born on October 24, 1914, in Madras (now Chennai), British India, and passed away on July 23, 2012. Sahgal played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule and later contributed to social and political causes.

Lakshmi Sahgal was born to a distinguished family. Her father, S. Swaminathan, was a lawyer, and her mother, Ammu Swaminathan, was a social worker. Sahgal studied medicine at Madras Medical College and later moved to Singapore to pursue her studies in gynecology.

During World War II, Sahgal joined the Indian National Army (INA) led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. She held the rank of Captain in the INA’s Rani of Jhansi Regiment, a women’s regiment that played an active role in the fight against the British forces in Burma and India. Sahgal’s bravery and leadership in the INA were widely acknowledged.

After India gained independence in 1947, Lakshmi Sahgal remained active in social and political spheres. She practiced medicine and also became involved in various social causes, including women’s rights and healthcare.

Sahgal later joined politics and became associated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)). She ran for the position of President of India in 2002, supported by several left-wing parties, although she was not successful in winning the election.

Lakshmi Sahgal is remembered as a fearless freedom fighter and a symbol of women’s empowerment. Her role in the INA and her dedication to social and political causes have left a lasting impact on India’s history. She remains an inspirational figure for generations of Indians who admire her courage and commitment to the country’s independence and social progress.