International Research Journal of Education and Technology

   The word 'feminism' is a common term in today's world. The status of women in India has been subject to many changes over the span of recorded Indian history. The Matua movement was initiated during the late 19th century by the Namasudras, a group of people belonging to lower caste peasants. This eventually took the form of a social movement. This movement later lost momentum just after raising hopes from Dalit awakening in the context of West Bengal. The term ‘Dalit’ means 'oppressed' or 'downtrodden'. And when it comes to Dalit women, they are doubly marginalized for being a Dalit and being born as a woman. However, the Matua movement has changed that view. Harichand and Guruchand Thakur, the pioneers of the Matua community, laid emphasis on gender equality to enlighten women through their family and education. In the Brahminical patriarchal society, women were intentionally excluded from participation in social activities, education, and administrative power in the name of social purity. But the Matua ideology did not accept gender discrimination between men and women. Harichand Thakur declared in a revolutionary voice, ignoring the distinction between men and women. This research paper will analyze the contribution of women empowerment that "Shanti Shatyavama Nirban Committee” and “Matua Matri Sena” make to the Matua community. Thus, we aim to critically understand the ways in which the women gurus of the Matua community construct women empowerment and create a notion of equality that contributes to our (patriarchal) society.

Key-words: Gender, equality, women, Matua, discrimination, education, empowerment.