The Story of Bhikaji Cama: The First Maker of the Tricolour

On 24 September 1861, in the vibrant city of Mumbai, a little girl named Bhikaji Cama was born into a wealthy Parsi family. Her father, Sorabji Framji, was a prominent businessman, but it was Bhikaji’s fervent patriotism that set her apart from an early age. This innate love for her country would shape her destiny and leave an indelible mark on India’s struggle for independence.

A Marriage at Odds

In 1885, Bhikaji married Rustamji Cama. However, their union was far from harmonious. Rustamji viewed British rule as a blessing for India’s development, while Bhikaji vehemently opposed it, believing it to be a curse that needed to be lifted. The couple’s conflicting ideologies created a rift between them, further exacerbated by Bhikaji’s dedication to social work.

A Cholera Outbreak and a Diverging Path

In 1896, a devastating cholera epidemic swept through Mumbai. Unfazed by the danger, Bhikaji and her friends ventured into the affected areas to provide aid and relief. Rustamji disapproved of her actions, having no interest in social work. Their differences became irreconcilable, leading Bhikaji to make a bold decision: she left her husband and his home forever.

Seeking Treatment and Finding a Cause

Bhikaji’s relentless efforts during the cholera epidemic took a toll on her health. In 1901, she traveled to Britain for treatment. There, she initially collaborated with Dadabhai Naoroji but found his approach of persuasion too passive. Determined to take a more direct stance, she aligned herself with extremists like Shyamji Krishna Verma and Sardar Singh Rao. She became deeply involved with London’s ‘India House’ and ‘India Home Rule Society,’ centers of revolutionary activity where she worked alongside prominent figures like Veer Savarkar and Madanlal Dhingra.

The Historic Tricolour

In 1907, an international conference was held in Stuttgart, Germany. Bhikaji attended, seizing the opportunity to advocate for India’s independence. Surrounded by the flags of various nations, she was asked about the flag of India. Inspired by the tricolour designs around her, she crafted a flag of her own imagination. On 18 August 1907, she hoisted this tricolour, marking the first time an Indian flag was displayed on an international stage.

The flag she created featured eight lotuses on a green stripe, symbolizing the eight provinces of India. The middle yellow stripe bore the words “Vande Mataram” in Devanagari script, while the red bottom stripe displayed a sun on the left and a crescent moon on the right. This act of defiance and creativity became a symbol of India’s aspiration for freedom.

A Tireless Campaign

After the conference, Bhikaji traveled to America, tirelessly organizing meetings and conferences to garner support for India’s independence. In 1909, she returned to France and began publishing a newspaper called ‘Vande Mataram,’ which continued until the outbreak of World War I. Her relentless activities drew the attention of British intelligence, who closely monitored her movements and communications. Undeterred, Bhikaji persisted in her mission, using foreign soil as a base for her revolutionary efforts.

A Return to India and Final Days

Despite her yearning to return to her homeland, the British government, wary of her influence, barred her from entering India. As her health declined, she wished to spend her final days in her birthplace. In 1935, after much difficulty, she managed to return to Mumbai. A year later, on 30 August 1936, Bhikaji Cama passed away, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to India’s freedom.

A Legacy Remembered

Bhikaji Cama’s life is a testament to the power of conviction and the impact one individual can have on a nation’s history. Her creation of the first version of the tricolor flag and her relentless fight for independence continue to inspire generations. As we honor her memory, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the pursuit of a free and independent India.

5 Indian Women in History Who Deserve to be Known Much More