INTRODUCTION OF DHULE DISRTICT -...

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CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2

INTRODUCTION

OF

DHULE DISRTICT

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Chapter – 2

INTRODUCTION OF DHULE DISTRICT

2.1 Introduction

2.2 The Geographical and Natural Background of Dhule District

2.3 Historical Background of Dhule District

2.4 The Political Background of Dhule District

2.5 Administrative and Statistical Background of Dhule District

2.6 Role of Dhule District in Indian Independence Movement

2.7 The Women Leadership in Dhule District

2.8 Epilogue

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References

Chapter – 2

Introduction of Dhule District

2.1 Introduction:

The Subject of present research is “Women’s political participation In

Municipality and Municipal Corporation field in the Dhule District of Maharashtra State’,

so to study and analyzing this subject it becomes necessary to get acequainted with the

geographical, historical and political background of Dhule district. It is also necessary

because, human behavior is mostly affected by the geographical condition of the area. In

present research, we have to study the political participation of women in the district, so

it also becomes necessary to study the political participation, women leadership and the

participation of women in movement of freedom fighting of India in Dhule District.

In short, all above mentioned points taken in consideration researcher wants to

study the background of Dhule district.

2.2 The Geographical and Natural Background of Dhule District:

Dhule District is one of the smallest districts in Maharashtra. It includes in North

Maharashtra region.

2.2.1 Geographic location and background:

In Maharashtra there are 35 districts. That entire district, Dhule is considered as

smallest district by area and also least number of Tahsils which are only four.

From the administrative point of view Dhule district is included in North

Maharashtra and counted in ‘Nashik Region’. From ancient times Dhule district is

recognized as ‘Khandesh’. It is situated in the upper basin of the river ‘Tapi’, and in the

North-West of Maharashtra.

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Before 1956 this district was in Mumbai State; but after reconstruction of state in

1960 it was considered in Maharashtra State.

Due to administrative reason and political demand of separate ‘Adivasi District’

Dhule District was divided into Dhule and Nandurbar District. “On 1st July 1998 Dhule

District was divided and new Nandurbar District is formed”.(1) At present days there are

only four – Dhule, Sakri, Shindkheda and Shirpur Tahsils in Dhule district.

“Dhule District lies between 20038’ to 220 North longitudes and 73047’ to 75011’

East longitudes. It is at located on 180 to 215 meters height above the sea level.” (2)

It is surrounded by Jalgaon district at east, Nashik District at south, Nimar

(Nimad) District of Madhya Pradesh at North and Nandurbar District at West. (As shown

in the map No.2.1)

This district seems triangular in shape. On the northern boundary of district there

are Satpuda Mountain ranges. “The area of Dhule district is 8061 km2.” (3) “It was

occupied 2.6% of the total area of Maharashtra state and it ranks 19th in the Maharashtra

state on the basis of area” (4)

On the basis of geographical structure, climate, rain, type of soil etc the dhule

district is divided into two parts. One is on the north side of the river Tapi. It is in the

basin of river Tapi which includes the Shirpur Tahsil and some part of Shindkheda Tahsi.

It is a fertile part with well developed irrigation system and is richer. Another part is the

plane landed on the sourthern side of river Tapi, which includes Dhule, Sakri and some

part of Shindkheda Tahsil. It requires more scope for the development of irrigation.

The head quarter of Dhule district is Dhule City situated from State Capital

Mumbai at the distance of 343 km. Three National Highways – Mumbai-Agra (NH3),

Nagpur-Surat (NH6) and Solapur-Dhule (NH 211) passes through Dhule City and Asian

Highway No.46, 47 also passes through Dhule City. “A railway service of central

railway Dhule to Chalisgaon is available right from British period. A western Railway

service Surat-Bhusawal is also available from the district. Both of these railway routes

are broad-guage and their total length is 81.61 km.” (5) In the districts a Gondur Airport

near Dhule City and Shirpur Airport is available.

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The Table 2.1 shows the number of Tahsil in the district and its area. It also

shows the urban local self government bodies available in that particular Tahasils.

Table: 2.1 No. of Tahsil, Area of Tahsil and Urban Local Government Body

Sr.No. Tahsil Name Areain Km2 Municipality Municipality Corporation

1 Shirpur 2664.53 Shirpur --

2 Shindkheda 1300.53 Dondaicha --

3 Sakri 2416.11 -- --

4 Dhule 1981.94 -- Dhule

Source: Dhule district Social and Economical Review 2005.

2.2.2 Natural Introduction:

The main river flowing through Dhule district is ‘Tapi’. It flows westward and

meets to Arabian Sea near Surat in Gujarat State. It originates from Madhya Pradesh.

Another important river in Dhule District is ‘Panzara’ river. It originates in Sakri Tahsil,

flows through Dhule and meets Tapi in Shindkheda Tahsil. The length of the river

Panzara is 136 km. Beside these two rivers, Burai, Arunavati, Aner, Bori, Kan etc. are

the important tributaries flowing through Dhule district.

Sulwade Barrage on river Tapi, two medium project dams on the river burai, Aner

dam on river Aner, Latipada & Akkalpada Medium project dams on river Panzara are the

different dam in Dhule District through which the water irrigation is done.

There is sanctuary and forest is developed in the basin of the river Aner and at the

bottom of Satpuda ranges. Trees like Sag, Hirada, Behada, and Anjan are found there.

In the surrounding of fort ‘Laling’ near Dhule City, a forest is developed and wild

animals are protected. “The climate of Dhule district is hot and the average rainfall is

606mm.”(6) Many times, the district has to face drought as it is low rainfall area.

2.3 Historical Background:

“The region covered Jalgaon, Dhule and Nandurbar District in now a day is

known as ‘Khandesh’, since medieval period. The whole region was considered as one

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district at that time and the head quarter was Dhule City.”(7) Thus, the history of the Dhule

district is very interesting.

2.3.1 Historical Background:

“In ancient period this region was included in region named ‘Rushik’ which had

Vidarbh (Varhad) in East, Anup or Mahishak (Malawa) in north and Ashmak

(Marathwada) in South”(8)

This region is known as ‘Krushak’ from ancient period about this name the

references were found in Ramayana, Mahabharat and in Sudeshkumar’s Charitra. During

Yadav period this region was known as ‘Seundesh’ by the name of the king seunchandra.

“In the Bhishmparva of Mahabharat there is a reference of many regions in that one of

the region is ‘Khanda’. Some western historians had said that the ‘Khanda’ region

referred in Mahabharat is nothing but it is the ‘Khandesh” (9)

In the Mughal period, “the Sultan of Gujrath first Mohmad had rewarded

Farooque Malik II, a king of Thalner as a honour of ‘Khan’. Thus the country was given

the name after this king as ‘Khandesh’.”(10) But “In the period of Akabar this area is

identified as a ‘Dandesh’” (11) According to Siclair “Kanhadesh means the desh (area) of

Krishna which is Khandesh” (12). Dhule district was existed on the holy land, where Lord

Krishna had spent his childhood.

2.3.2 History of the Origin of Dhule District:

In the Shivkal at 1760, King Shivaji Maharaj had sent his Sardar Prataprao Gujar

to collect the ‘Chauthai’ and ‘Sardeshmukhi’. After words the country had suffered the

consequences of the dispute among Peshwas. In that dispute in 1795, some part of

Khandesh was gone under the control of ‘Holkar’ and some part under the control of

‘Shinde’. The people were hassled by the wars, droughts and due to the vexing from

‘Pendharies’. In such situation British had landertaken the Kingdom of Marathas. Then

“the first resident captain Mr.Bridges of England had made Dhule as a headquarter and

tried to establish peace into this area.”(13)

While reviewing the history of Dhule district it seems that “historical references

of Dhule district are found after 753. As per bronze engraves found at Dhule, Torkheda,

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Kharde, Taloda, Javkheda, Pimpri there was a ruling by ‘Rashtrakutas’. This region was

ruled by Allauddin Khilji up to 1370. After 1370 the Sultan of Delhi Firoz Tughlak had

rewarded Thalner Subha to Mallikarjun Farooqui in which Dhule was included. Farooqui

had ruled on this region upto 1600.”(14)

“Long ago Dhule was included in Laling Tahsil and Liling Tahsil was in

Daulatabad District of Nizamshahi.”(15) After Nizam’s Dhule was ruled Mughal, Nizam,

and Maratha. Then the district was completely under the power of British. “In 1869 of

British era a separate ‘Khandesh’ district was established whose headquarter was at

Dhule. But in 1906 British had divided Khandesh for the administrative purpose and new

separate districts were established named East Khandesh and West Khandesh.”(16)The

head-quarter of East Khandesh was Jalgaon and West Khandesh was Dhule. West

Khandesh included Dhule, Nandurbar, Navapur, Pimpalner, Shahada, Shirpur,

Shindkheda and Taloda Tahsils. After some years name of the pimpalner Tahsil was

changed as Sakri. “In 1950 Akkalkuva is established as a new Tahsil.”(17)

Dhule District was considered in Mumbai State before reconstruction of state and

from 1960 it was included in Maharashtra State. “As per Government Circular dated on

21st October, 1960 the name of district west Khandesh is changed as Dhule district” (18)

Before 1st July, 1998 the present Nandurbar District was also included in Dhule

district. But for the administrative convenience and development of Adivasis Nandurbar,

Shahada, Taloda, Navapur, Akkalkuva, Dhadgaon Tahsils were included in New

Nandurbar District. Dhule, Sakri, Shirpur and Shindkheda Tahsils were included in New

Dhule District. This separated Dhule districted is taken in consideration for this present

research.

This research work is only in the area of urban local government bodies so it

becomes necessary to introduce the Dhule City of Dhule Municipal Corporation,

Dondaicha of Shindkheda Tahsil having municipality and Shirpur having municipality.

There is only one Municipal Corporation at Dhule, two municipalities at Dondaicha and

Shirpur in whole Dhule district.

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2.3.3 Introduction of Dhule City:

Dhule City is the head-quarter of Dhule district. Dhule City is situated on the left

bank of river Panzara. “Clay pots of the north sindhu civilization have been found here.

This city is situated along 200.54’ North latitude and 740.47’ East longitude. This city is

ancient city. “It’s seems that Dhule city was established from 1000 years.”(19)

It seems that in ancient period of Ashoka and Satvahan’s there was a civilization

in this area. It is also seems that Malik Farooqui had built castles in the Deopur & Old

Dhule area. “In 1803 there was a severe drought in this area and the city had also

inhabitilated due to continuous wars, drought and plundering.”(20) In 1804 this area was

ruled under Sardar Vinchurkar. Balaji Yashwant, the officer of Sardar Vinchurkar was

rehabitilated this city. He had reconstructed the castle in Deopur & Ganesh Peth. “Upto

1810 Dhule was under the power of Marathas Captain George Bridges was assigned for

Dhule after 1818 when British defeated Marathas. He decided to keep Dhule city as his

head quarter. He constructed Dhule as like as ‘Dandakgram’ method” (21) “The present

registrar office may be the office of Captain Bridges and it may be the first Government

building in the city.”(22)

2.3.3.1 Origin of the name Dhule:

The many thinkers opinion is that the name Dhule be originated from the Marathi

word ‘Dhul’ which means dust. The city which is mentioned as ‘Dhulika – pattam’ in

some ancient books is today’s Dhule. In ancient times Dhule may be the past of Cavalry.

This area is identified as ‘Dhulia’ during Muslim powers. According to a thinker Mr.

M.B.Shaha “The population of shepherds (in Marathi Dhanagars) and milkmen (Gavali)

were more in this area. So the name Dhule may be given as per the name of their God

‘Dhuloba.” (23)

Thus, we can say that there are different views of the origin of name Dhule.

2.3.4 Introduction of Dondaicha City:

Dondaicha City is an important trade centre in the Shindkheda Tahsil of Dhule

district, which is situated on Surat-Bhusawal railway line. “Dondaicha is located

between 21020’ to 21033’ North latitude and 74034’ to 74056’ East longitudes.”(24) British

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used this city to keep and store their goods for commercial purpose. The British had

established a Municipal Corporation in this city. “In 1905 the railway was arrived firstly

into this City.”(25) Now a days this city is famous for Chilli Market. “Dondaicha is situated

on hills between the two rivers Amaravati and Bhogawati.”(26)

2.3.5 Introduction of Shirpur City:

Shirpur city is Tahsil place among the Dhule district. It is situated on the north of

Dhule city and on the way of Mumbai-Agra National Highway. A legend is famous for

the origin of the name Shirpur. “A long ago there was gentleman named Kalubaba. He

had a deep faith on the God Khanderao Maharaj. He was always busy in Pooja and in the

remembrance of God. He was married but had one pain in his mind that he didn’t have

any child. So he made a vow to God to offer the head of himself to Khanderao if he

would get a child. As per the vow after he had a baby he offered his head in the holy

feets of Khanderao Maharaj. But when he cut the head, there was the flood of

‘Bhandara’ (turmeric) instead of the blood. Thus, the old aged people say that the name

of the City is given as Shirpur. In Marathi Shir means head and Pur means flood.”(27)

This city is situated at the border of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarath. It is 180 to

215 meter above on the sea level. The river Arunavati flows through the City, “Shirpur is

situated between 20021’1” to 21035’28” North latitudes and 74052’43” to 740878610 East

longitude.”(28)

In the Shirpur city, there is the first gold refinery in India, which is the biggest

gold refinery in Asia.

2.4 The Political Background:

It is observed that Dhule district is in favor of Congress Part since after

independence era. “From 6th to 12th Parliament Election voters of the Dhule District had

continuously elected the congress candidate” (29) 13th and 15th Parliament Election is the

exception to it. It seems that no any women had elected for parliament from Dhule

district. But Late Kamalabai Ajmera, Late Gojaratai Bhamare, Dr.Shalini Borse had

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elected for state assembly (Vidhan Sabha) from Dhule district. Among them Late

Kamalabai Ajmera and Dr. Shalini Borse had got the opportunity of minister ship.

In Dhule district there are the many activists of different political parties like

Indian National Congress, Congress(I), Congress(S), Jansangha, Bhartiya Janata Parti,

Janata Party, Communist Party (Markist), Republical Party of India, Samajwadi Party,

Sena (MNs), Lok Sangram Party etc. and it seems that every party women activists are

also there in minor or major extent. There are one Loksabha constituency and five

Legislative Assembly Constituencies.

2.5 The Administrative and Statistical Introduction:

2.5.1 Administrative Introduction:

Nandurbar district was separated from Dhule district for all-round development of

Adivasis on 1st July, 1988. Presently only four Tahsils are there in Dhule district. For

administrative and civil purpose Dhule district is divided into two divisions named as

Dhule division and Shirpur division. Dhule and Sakri Tahsil are included in Dhule sub-

division. Shirpur and Shindkheda Tahsil are included in the Shirpur sub-division. On the

basis of area, Sakri is the biggest and Shindkheda is the smallest Tahsils in the Dhule

District. Headquarter of this district is Dhule city, where Municipal Corporation is

working as a local self government. In the Dhule District two municipalities are there.

One is Shirpur-Warwade Municipality which is ‘B’ class municipality other is

Dondaicha-Warwade Municipality which is ‘C’ class municipality. In Sakri Tahsil there

is no any municipality.

2.5.2 Statistical Data of Urban Area:

As stated as early in past the total area of Dhule district is 8061 km2. The district

has occupied the 2.6% area of the total areal of the state and according to area it ranks

19th in the state.

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Urban Local Governance bodies in Dhule District –

(a) Municipal Corporation - 01

(b) Municipalities - 02

Table 2.2 – Population of Dhule District:

Sr.No. Year Male Female Total

1 1991 1295288 1240427 2535715

2 2001 878372 829575 1707947

3 2011 1054031 996831 2050862

Source: 1) District Plan Report (Dhule) 2009-10 2) www.censusindia.gov.in/2011/pca/searchDetails.aspx?Id=556629

Table 2.3 : Population of Urban area in Dhule District:

Sr. No

Name of City

Year

1991 2001 2011 (Provisional)

Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total

1 Dhule 145793 132524 278317 177631 163842 341473 193446 182113 375559

2 Shirpur 22888 21358 44246 32121 29567 61688 40235 36670 76905

3 Dondaicha 17380 16261 33641 22072 20321 42393 24011 22756 46767

Source: 1) Govt. of India Ministry of Home Affairs – Census Report 2) www.censusindia.gov.in/2011 3) RTI letter No. 3426 Shirpur date 23/11/2012

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Table 2.4: Number of Voters in Dhule Municipality/Municipal Corporation

Sr No

Year of Voting Total Voters No. of Voters actually casted voters

Male Female Total Male Female Total

1 2002 (Municipality) 115003 104331 219334 Not Available 47.52%

2 2003 (Municipal

Corp.) 106049 101932 207981 Not Available

140930

(67.76%)

3 2008(Municipal Corp.) 126370 11899 238269 72363 64034 136397

Source: 1) Election Commission of Maharashtra Report 2004-2009 2) Election Commission of Maharashtra Report 1994-2004

Table 2.5: Number of voters in Shirpur-Warwade Municipality.

Sr No



1 2001 17437 16212 33649 Not Available 72.86%

2 2006 22930 22793 45723 14278 13185 27463

(60.06%)

3 2011 27377 26762 54139 17979 16190 34169

Source: 1) www.maha sec.com/PDF/Final_Report dt 10/12/2013 at 10:30pm 2) RTI Letter No. 3426/Shirpur / dt 23/11/2012

Table 2.6: Number of voters in Dondaicha-Warwade Municipality.

Sr No



1 2001 13986 12946 26932 9561 8917 18568

(74.45%)

2 2006 15423 15359 30782 12981 10595 23576

(76.59%)

3 2011 19301 17861 37162 13354 12349 25703

(69.16%)

Source: 1) www.maha sec.com/PDF/Final_Report on 10/12/2013 at 10.50 pm 2) RTI Letter Dondaicha/5582/ dt 03/12/2012 3) Election Commission of Maharashtra Report 2004-09, 1994-2004

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Table 2.7 : Rate of Literacy in Dhule District

Sr.No. Year Literacy Rate in %

Male Female Total

1 1991 71.20 45.80 58.80

2 2001 81.40 61.39 71.65

3 2011 82.59 66.21 74.61

Source: 1) Census of India Report 1991, 2001 & 2011 (Provisional) Available at-www.census 2011.co.in/census/district

Table 2.8: Literacy Rate of Urban Area in Dhule District

Sr.No. Year Name of City Literacy Rate in %

Male Female Total

1 2001

Dhule 80 69 75

Shirpur 76 63 70

Dondaicha 77 65 71

2 2011

Dhule 80.50 74.67 78.45

Shirpur 77.92 71.82 74.88

Dondaicha 76.64 67.67 73.41 Source: 1) www.wiki.com /Shirpur 2) www.wiki.com /Dhule 3) www.censusindia.gov.in /2011

Table 2.9: No. of women Corporators in Dhule Municipality and Municipal Corporation

Sr.No. Year Total No. of Corporators No. of Women Corporators

1 1996(Municipality) 60 20

2 2002(Municipality) 65 22

3 2003(Municipal Corp.) 67 23



Source: 1) State Election Commission Report 1994-2004 & 2004-2009 2) RTI Letter No. ¬Öã́ Ö¯ÖÖ/†ÖÃ£ÖÖ(´ÖÖ.†.)/298/ dt.on 24/3/2013, Dhule 3) Daily Newspaper Sakal dated on-17/12/2013

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Table 2.10: No. of Women Corporators in Shirpur Municipality

Sr.No. Year Total No. of Corporators No. of Women Corporators

1 1996 24 08

2 2001 27 09

3 2006 27 09

4 2011 27 13

Source: 1) State Election Commission Report 1994-2003, 2004-2009 2) RTI Letter No.3426/Shirpur-Warwade Nagarpalika/ dt. 23/11/2012 3) Govt. of Maharashtra Gazetteer published on 15/12/2011 p.p.814

Table 2.11: No. of Women Corporators in Dondaicha Municipality

Sr.No. Yar Total No. of Corporators No. of Women Corporators

1 1996 20 07

2 2001 24 04

3 2006 23 08

4 2011 22 13

Source: 1) State Election Commission Report 1994-2003, 2004-2009 2) RTI Letter No.Dondaicha/5582/ Dt. 5/12/2012

Table 2.12: Urban & Rural Population of Dhule District

Sr.No. Year

Population

Urban Rural


1 1991 271212 248629 519841 1024076 991798 2015874

2 2001 232008 213877 445885 646364 615698 1262062

3 2011 295707 276040 571747 759962 717072 1477034

Source: 1) Census of India Report 1991, 2001, 2011 (Provisional) 2) Director of Economics & Statistics: Maharashtra Report 19/02/2008

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Table 2.13: Rate of Urban & Rural population of Dhule district in %.

Name of District

Year

2001 2011

Urban Rural Urban Rural

Dhule 26.11 73.89 27.91 72.09

Source: Census of India Report 2011 (Provisional)

Table 2.14: Area of Municipality & Municipal Corpor ation of Dhule district.

Sr.No. Name of Municipality or Municipal Corporatio n Area in Km2

1 Dhule Municipal Corporation 46.46 km2

2 Shirpur-Warwade Municipality 36 km2

3 Dondaicha-Warawade Municipality 32.5 km2

Source: 1) www.citypopulation.de/php/india_maharashtra.php?City id 2) RTI Letter No. a) ¬Öã́ Ö¯ÖÖ/•ÖÖ. Îú./†ÖÃ£ÖÖ(´ÖÖ.†.)/298/ dt. 24/3/2013, Dhule

b) 3426/dt.23/11/2012, Shirpur c) 5582/dt 3/12/2012, Dondaicha

Table 2.15: List of Women M.L.A./M.L.C. in Dhule District

Sr.No. Name of Women MLA Name of Constituency Period

1 Smt. Kamalabai Ajmera Dhule city 1980-1985

2 Dr.Shalini Borse Dhule City 1885-1995

Source: www.ask.com/wiki/Dhule_city_(Vidhan_Sabha_Constituency)

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Table 2.16 List of Lady President and Mayor in Dhule District.

Sr

No Name of Women Designation Name of Municipality/

Municipal Corporation Period

1 Sau.Kusumbai Suresh Bagul President Shirpur-Warwade 26/12/1997 to 20/12/1998

2 Sau. Sangita Rajendra Deore President Shirpur-Warwade 21/12/2011 to date

3 Smt Riyasadbi Ab. Pinjari President Dondaicha-Warwade 29/3/1971 to 13/4/1972

4 Smt. Shakuntalabai Mevalal Batunge

President Dondaicha-Warwade 22/01/1973 to 08/02/1973

5 Smt. Shakuntalabai Mevalal Batunge


6 Smt.Shiubai Sahebrao Kakade President Dondaicha-Warwade 21/12/1996 to 21/12/1997

7 Sau.Nayankumar Jitendrasingh Rawal






10 Smt. Sushilabai Ranade President Dhule Municipality 1941 to 1942

11 Smt. Jayavantibai Gulabchand Shaha

President Dhule Municipality 1954-55

12 Sau. Nalini Sudhakar Madane President Dhule Municipality 20/02/1969 to 16/11/1969

13 Sau. Sumanbai Gorakh Yerdavkar

President Dhule Municipality 15/03/1998 to 03/10/1998

14 Sau. Hematai Anil Gote President Dhule Municipality 10/05/2002 to 30/06/2003

15 Sau. Manjula Tulshiram Gavit Mayor Dhule Municipal Corporation

01/07/2011 to31/12/2013.

16 Sau. Jayashri Kamalakar Ahirrao

Mayor Dhule Municipal Corporation

1/1/2014 to till date.

Source: 1) RTI Letter No. ¬Öã́ Ö¯ÖÖ/•ÖÖ. Îú./†ÖÃ£ÖÖ(´ÖÖ.†.)/298/ dt. 24/3/2013, Dhule 2) RTI Letter No. 1003/ dt.21/03/2013, Dondaicha

3) RTI Letter No. 6080/dt. 25/03/2013, Shirpur

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2.6 Roll of Dhule District in Indian Independence Movement:

The different affairs in 20th Century have a tremendous important effect on the

history of India. India becomes independent from the power of British in the same

century. The region of British had seen a decline in the same century. The British had

economically exploited India, but on the other hand they have given us an important

thing ‘education.’ This education have developed ignited the importance of freedom in

the minds of Indians. Many patriots had sacrificed their lives for the country. Dhule

district was also not lag behind in such sacrifice. There was a great contribution of

Dhule district in this war of independence.

2.6.1 The Inspiration from Justice Ranade and the Contribution of Newspaper in Independence Movement:

Dhule district was identified as an Adivasi district since many years. These

Adivasis were totally unknown and away from politics. The middle class, some

intellectual’s people were indifferent from politics. Such a small group of people was not

interested in social affairs also. It is observed that Justice Ranade had stayed in Dhule

City for some years due to the transfer during his government service before

independence. He had motivated to these educated, middleclass people to take part in

freedom movement. “After freedom war of 1857, Maharashtra was cooled like a cold

ball. Justice Ranade had done to bring warmth and to give spirit at awareness about

independence and ignite to the people firstly.”(30) Then all the lawyers got ingnited and

they have given more contribution to the public awareness through the print media means

newspaper.

Newspaper had played an important role to develop the public awareness against

the social injustice and to give a voice to this injustice. “In 1857 ‘Khandesh Vaibhav”

and in 1876 ‘Aryawart’ both newspapers had started to publish from Dhule.”(31) It seems

that these both had done the valuable job of intellectual awaking among the society. The

big part of the society was the reader and fans of the newspaper like Kesari, Kokila,

Bhala, Kal, Keral etc. Due to group reading of these newspaper people of society

changes their attitude and thinking. The fires of the movement were spreading in the

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rural area through these newspapers. And due to this it’s seems that bycott, Non co-

operation movement, Vang-Bhang Movement had also carried out in Khandesh.

‘Khandesh Chitragupta’, ‘Jalgaon Samachar’, Probhodhan Chandrika, Saptahik

Prapodhan, Saptahik Bharat etc. all these newspaper had done a good job of brain

washing of society and motivate the people for involving in movement in the Dhule as

well as in Khandesh.

In the earlier period of this movement ‘Garud High School’ was the Centre of

these activities of freedom movement. This was the only one high school in the district;

at that time the freedom fighter like Shankar Shrikrishan Deo, Govind Kashinath

(Nanasaheb) Chandorkar, Randive Brothers, and Principal T.A. Kulkarni had taken their

education from this school. All these personalities had ignited the sparkles of freedom in

the district. “In such a way Garud High School was the centre of volcano which errupt

the Lava of Patriotism in Khandesh.”(32)

2.6.2 Contribution of Lawyers in the Independence Movements:

Rashtriya Sabha (National Congress) was established in 1885. The educated and

intellectual class of the society also started to participate in freedom movements.

Lawyers in the nation were also given their important contribution. In Dhule district

Advocate Balkrishna Ramchandra Kotwal, Adv. Damodar Laxman Deshpande, Adv.

Sadashiv Hari Soman, Adv. Waman Narayan Ranade etc. had also done special efforts to

the awaken the public and to develop patriotism in society. Shrikrishna Shankar Deo

from Dhule had shown his impression on national level also. Later he was selected as a

Regional President for Congress. Many activists were working for ‘Homrule League’ in

Khandesh and Dhule District. The lawyers in the district had given their important

contribution in celebration of shivjayanti, Ganeshostav and Land Revenue Movement,

Swadeshi Movement etc.

2.6.3 Work of Satkaryottejak Sabha:

“Keeping the intension of social enlightenment and political awakening Shrikrishan

Shankar Deo and his collegues had established Satkaryottejak Sabha on 19th May, 1893

on the pattern of Sarvajanik Sabha of Pune.”(33)

45

Shivjayanti, Ganeshostav such types of festivals were celebrated by this sabha

through which the efforts were done to awaken the people. In the beginning these

festivals had to face the oppose of some people, but he had explained the intension of

these festivals and tried to awaken the people. British were opposed by this sabha. “In

1900 the sabha celebrated the ceremony of the birth century of Nana Fadanwis.”(34) to

develop the patriotism in the people and to organize the people against British. “A

declaration was sticked on the gate of the training college on which the slanderous matter

about British was written and a threat was given in that declaration and it was assigned as

‘enemy’”(35)

Thus Satkaryottejak Sabha had organized the people against British and had sown

the seeds of patriotism in minds of people.

2.6.4 Contribution in Revolutionary Movement:

In Indian freedom movement there were two types of working groups. The first

group was of the moderates doing work by legal way and another was the group of

extremists accepting the revolutionary way. Both types of activists groups were working

in Dhule District. Appasaheb Randive and brothers were the leaders of extremists. The

minding of the whole work was done in the ‘Potole’s Vyayamshala’. “Students get the

qualities like righteousness, self-sacrifice, charity and good characterness by Randive

Brothers. At that time not any other institute was doing such a great work in

Khandesh.”(36)

Randive and his colleagues were helping not only to the revolutionaries of

Khandesh but also to the revolutionaries of whole state. P.M. Bapat says, “Madhavrao

(Randive), Appasaheb Dastane & Bhataji (Damodar Balwant Bhide- A Gym master from

Satara) caused to get revolutionary training (Diksha) to me in 1902.”(37) Randive Brothers

had transformed the ‘Patole’s Vyayamshala’ and his house into as like revolutionary

centre of state.

Randive brothers were help and encourage to each and every revolutionary

activity directly and indirectly. The reference had found that “the first meeting of

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Abhinav Bharat (Mitramela) was held in the house of Adv. Rao Saheb Randive in Dhule

at 1903.”(38).

On the one side Randive Brothers were motivating the activitist by their activities

and on the other side Shankar Deo, Uttam Patil, Sane Guruji, were got attracted towards

non-violence movement of Gandhiji.

2.6.5 Non Co-operation Movement and Visit of Mahatma Gandhi at Dhule

District:

After the death of Lokmanya Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi became the leader of Indian

independence movement. He had given emphasis on non violent way. The revolutionary

movement in Dhule district got stacked in the period of leadership of Gandhi. Mahatma

Gandhi had started a non co-operation movement throughout the nation through

prohibition of Alcohol, Packeting, bycott on the foreign material etc. Non co-operation

movement got well response in Dhule district and Khandesh. Appasaheb Randive, Sane

Guruji, Uttamrao patil, Devaki-Nandan Narayan, Meer Shukrullah Khan had participated

in each movement of Gandhiji. The distinctive feature of this movement was many

women’s got participation in the freedom movement on the appeal of Gandhiji to the

women. “Women’s were participated as equally as men in Indian freedom movement in

1930 due to the inspiration of Mahatma Gandhi. Before this women’s had not

participated in such a great number in any movement.” (39)

When Mahatma Gandhi was on historical tour of Dhule district during 12th to 15th

February, 1927, he attended different programs in the district. “On 12th February

villagers of Shindkheda were donated Rs. 500/- at the time of meeting at Shindkheda. On

the same day the meeting held at Dondaicha he also visited Malpur and Nimgul villagers

on the same day. On 13th February the meeting was held at Songir, at that meeting the

many villagers of Kapadne, Dangurne, Nandane, Dapura, and Waghadi were present. In

this meeting also Rs.51/- and testimonial was given to the Gandhiji.”(40) This visit of

Gandhiji had created new feelings of public awareness and vibrancy about freedom

movement.

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2.6.6 The Contribution in Civil Disobedience Movement:

“The movement of civil disobedience started on 12th March 1930.”(41) It seems

that Ramchandra Baba Mohadikar, Naval Ananda Patil, Raghunath Rajaram Tongaonkar

were participated in Dandi March. Shankar Vinayak Thakar from Dhule was appointed

as a Chief Officer of Dhule District for Maharashtra Congress Party.

“Mr. Thakar had started the civil disobedience in Dhule district firstly at Karpure

village by selling the salt. The salt used at this movement was brought from Konkan by

Anandrao Kshire and his colleagues. The small packets of this salt were done on the

packets ‘Gandhi Salt’, and ‘Disobedience Mandal’ was written. By selling this packets

of salt Rs.197.50 were collected on this occasion. Shaligram Bharati had purchased that

salt by giving the maximum value of Rs.50/-. Respected mother of Shri. Anant Kshire

had also participated in this disobedience by purchasing the salt.”(42) The public of Dhule

district was actually participated in all movements of Gandhiji. The Adivasi people were

also activated in these movements.

2.6.7 Involvement in Jungle Satyagrah:

The volunteers from whole Khandesh had participated in Jungle Satyagrah. The

camps were held for protestors at Dhule, Kusumba, Sakri and Dangshirwade. Many non-

violent volunteers had done canvassing in the rural area against the Jungle tax. They

appealed to the villagers do not give the Jungle tax. These volunteers were sent to Jail

due to such canvassing. In these non-violent protesting Adivasi men, women had also

given the participation with the farmers.

During this period the national leaders like Vinoba Bhave, Guljarilal Nanda,

Jamanalal Bajaj, Balubhai Mehta, Dastane, Dhanaji Nanaji Chaoudhary, and Sane Guruji

were suffering their imprisonmental Dhule Jail. Due to them the Dhule Jail got the

historical importance.

“Vinoba Bhave had composed ‘Gitai’ in the Dhule Jail during 1930-1931 and in

1932 he had delivered sermon in this Jail. Sane Guruji had noted down these sermons

each and every word of Vinoba Bhave. Thus the Dhule Jail became a University of

freedom fighters.”(43)

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2.6.8 Role of Dhule district in ‘Chale Jao’ Movement:

On 8th August, 1942 a historical resolution ‘Chale Jao’ was passed demanding to

pass out the British for India. Gandhiji addressed to the people by giving the message

‘Karenge Ya Marenge’ (Do or die) and ‘Bharat Chhodo’ (Quit India). Thousand of youth

had involved in this crucial movement. But “Just for morning of 9th August 1942, British

started to arrest the leaders & activists. All congress committees were declared as illegal

and the rallies, meetings were also banned by British rulers.”(44)

This movement spread on over nation including Maharashtra. “The leader in

West Khandesh Balubhai Mehata called a meeting at Dalwade on 14th August, 1942 in

the farm of Deoman Dada. In that meeting near about 50 activists were present.”(45) In

this meeting, politics of the congress about this movement and strategies of British ruler

were discussed. Again on 16th August the meeting of same leaders was held at the house

of Nanaji, the president of ‘Charakha Sangh’. In this meeting the planning of next steps

was done. On 9th September, 1942 the students in Nandurbar had organized a rally on the

occasion of Completion of first month of ‘Chale Jao’ movement. In this rally they had

sloganeering like ‘Bharat Mata Ki jay’, ‘Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jay’. A school boy, Shirish

Kumar was raising the slogans. All these boys waved a flag on school building. They

had also tried to wave the flag in ‘Manik Chowk’, but this attempt was failed due to

resistant by policeman. The Police had tried to snatch the flag from the children. In this

tussle the police had fired bullets on Shirish Kumar but he had challenged the police by

the flag tightly and shouted “bullets are to be fire on chest; make that target and fire the

bullet.”(46) At the same moment police had fired on the chest of Shirish Kumar, Shirish

Kumar sacrificed his life and became martyr. He had done such a great work that whole

khandesh and Dhule district was proud of him.

In the ‘Chale Jao’ movement of 1942 the volunteers of congress in the Dhule

district had exhausted the British Government by rendering the telegraphs made useless,

by destroying the rails, by destroying ammunition vans of British, by breaking the cables

of telephones by plundering and firing the post offices, by disturbing the secrete letters,

by robbing the government treasures etc. In this movement “U.A.Patil had done a

nonviolent protesting at the gate of Dhule Textile Mill. So he was sent to Jail and the

49

court had given a vigorous imprisonment for 6 months and a penalty of Rs.100 and 3

months more imprisonment on not paying the penalty.” (47)

In this movement “On 14th April, 1944 near the village Salave at Chimthane the

government treasure of Rs.5.5 Lakh was robbed at 12.00 pm with the witness of ‘Surya

Narayan’ (Sun).”(48) In this mission Uttamrao A. Patil the co-protestors, Shankar Pandu

Mali, Fakira Namdeo Deore, Vishnubhau Patil, Shivaji Savant, Dhondiram Mali, Kisan

Master, Krishnarao Pawar, Vyankat Dhobi were involved but they were arrested and

Uttamrao Patil become underground and all that robbed treasure was used for the

underground movement.

On the whole it can be said that the activists in the Dhule district had given

valuable participation by ways, non-violent way as well as revolutionary way with a great

zest. They have given their valuable contribution to the National Freedom Movement.

2.7 The Women Leadership in Dhule District:

Women in Dhule district were active in Social and political field since

independence era. Mahatma Gandhi cultivated this concept of involvement of women

actively in politics.

After independence of India the Central Government led by Congress Party as a

Prime Minister opened the ways of women in politics by doing the 73rd and 74th

amendment into the constitution. On such a background it is important and necessary to

take the review of social and political leadership in Dhule district.

2.7.1 Role of Women in the Independence Movement of India:

After Lokmanya Tilak Indian people accepted the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi

after 1920. Then Gandhiji addressed “India is the mother land of all of us. So there is an

equal opportunity to men & women to serve the nation, without any sexually

discrimination.”(49) The women in the Dhule district had responded this appeal of Gandhi

to a great extent. From 1924, the women in the district had given their contribution in

independence movement. It is found that in 1924 Gangadevi Rameshwar Potdar had

participated in non co-operation movement. Dr.Kamalabai Ashtaputre, who had taken

50

the education of medical science at London, had participated in the protesting against

Simon Commission. The women in the Dhule district had also activeted in the

movement of Civil disobedience during 1930 to 1932. Women from all stratums had

participated in this movement. Kondabai Adsul, Sundarbai Bhavsar, Manubai Bhavsar

and Saraswati bai Upadhye had done the protesting in front of wine shop. They had tried

to awaken the people by discoursing the ill effects of alcoholic drinks.

In 1930 at the occasion of the first Satyagrah for salt, the respected mother of

Anant Kshire had participated in that Satyagrah by taking salt in hand; at that time near

about two to three hundred women had participated in the meeting.

Parvatabai Thakkar, Manubai Bhavsar, Narmadabai Bhavsar had participated in

Jungle Satyagrah. Many women’s from district had participated in the National

Assembly of Congress at Faizpur in 1936. All these women had done very valuable work

of cooking & cleaning under the training of Premaben Kantak. In 1940, Parvatabai

Thakkar was imprisoned for four months due to the statement delivered against the

British Government.

It seems that in the history of independence movement Shakuntalabai Upasani,

Manjulabai Mahadu Patil, hansabai Satpute, Yamunabai Shukla, Bhagriathabai Bagul,

Geetabai Ahirrao, Yamunabai Muchate, Prabhavati Sonawane, Shantabai Sinddappa

Kanade, Sundarabai Bhadrappa, Shantabai Wankhede, Sahibai Dixit, Champabai

Ramdas, Sonibai Subhash Mali, Mandakini Tongaonkar, Laxmibai Narayan Kulkarni etc.

had actively participated in Independence Movement.

2.7.2 The History of the Feminine Movement and Women Leaders of Dhule

District:

Dr.Kamalabai Ashtaputre, Kamalabai Ajmera, Mandakini Tongaonkar, Leelabai

Patil, Laxmi Upasani were the ladies from Dhule district who had done the excellent job

in the independence movement as well as after independence. But actually women

movement awaking and ignited the women’s with increasing participation of women had

started after the establishment of ‘Samajwadi Mahila Sabha’ by Vijayatai Chowk.

“There were near about one thousand and five hundred members of Samajwadi Mahila

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Sabha in Dhule District.”(50) This Mahila Sabha had arranged various camps for farmers,

farm workers especially for female farm workers. With the co-operation of Indian

Institute of Education, Pune; Vijaytai Chowk had also organized a ‘Yuvati Shibir’. “She

had also organized a rally of deserted women (women left by their husband) on Vidhan

Bhavan at Nagpur on 1st December, 1990. In that rally more than thousands of women

from the district had participated spontaneously.”(51)

“From 5th November to 8th November, 1990 Vijaya Chowk had organized a Long

March on the occasion of birth century of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the death century of

Mahatma Phule.”(52)

Vidya Patil had contested an election of Legislative Assembly from Dhule

district. Kamalabai Ajmera had also represented Dhule District in State Ministry. Dr.

Shalini Borse was elected from Dhule City Constituency for a twice. She had also got an

opportunity to represent the district in state ministry. It is found that women got more

and more opportunity for political participation after the 73rd and 74th Amendment into

the constitution. Latika Nagare had got a chance to be a president at Dhule Zilha

Parishad. Besides her Sanjivani Shisode, Sangita Desale and Kalabai Thakare belonging

from Adivasi community had got the chance in Z.P. due to this amendment. Presently, in

Dhule Municipal Corporation Manjula Gavit from Adivasi Community; who is the first

lady Mayor of this Municipal Corporation and give her best performance.

It is said that Bhagwan Shrikrishna (Lord Krishna) had resided in this district in

his childhood, thus the district become holly due to the residence of Lord Krishna. Such

a holly district though it is small in area but rich in various specialties. A new wave of a

awakening was also observed here due to the holly residence of Mahatma Gandhi.

So many people had sacrificed their lives, suffered imprisonment, women were

also not lag behind in these movement and they are not lag behind today also. Presently

there is an increasing participation of women in politics.

52

2.8 Epilogue:

It is the smallest district in state which became holly due to the holly residence of

Bhagawan Shrikrishna. This district is rich in many specialties. The contribution of

Dhule district in independence movement is extremely valuable.

Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had came in the district and inspired

the society to participate in independence movement of India. Sane Guruji, Vinoba

Bhave had also given their valuable guidance time to time to the district.

While studying the political participation of woman in Municipality & Municipal

Corporation area, the review of geographical location of Dhule district, historical

background and the information about local governance bodies is taken in this chapter.

Besides it, the cities having urban local governance bodies of Dhule district which

are Dhule, Shirpur and Dondaicha. So the researcher also studies the origin of names of

these cities in this chapter. The review of the participation of the district in independence

movement and the women leadership are also studied here in this chapter.

It is necessary to study about the development of urban local governance bodies

in accordance with the research problem.

53

References

1) District Statistical officer, Dhule (2009), Dhule District Social and Economical Review 2009. p.p.2

2) Pathak K.G., Magnale V.S. (Edit), K.K.Sharma (Collection) (2005), Sandarbh Maharashtra – Rajya Va Jilhe Ek Drushtikon, Vol-III, Intellectual Book Bureau, Bhopal, p.p. 758.

3) Govt. of India, India 2009, Information & Telecasting Ministry, India p.p. 1169

4) District Statistical Officer, Dhule (2011), District social and Economical Review- 2011,Dist-Dhule, Directorate of Finance and Statistical, Govt. of Maharashtra, Dhule. p.p.1

5) Ibid 4 p.p.12.

6) District Statistical officer, Dhule (Edi.) (2007), District Social & Economical Review 2006-07 p.p. 10.

7) Kunte B.G. (Executive Editor & Secretary), Gazzeteer Dept., Bombay (1974), Maharashtra State Gazzeteer, Dhulia District p.p.-80.

8) Joshi Tarktirth Laxmanshastri,(1979), Marathi Vishwakosh Vol.VIII. Maharashtra Rajya Sahitya Sanskruti Mandal p.p. 164.

9) Govt. of Maharashtra, (1961), Maharashtrache Jilhe – Dhule Jilha. Publishing Dept. Govt. of Maharashtra p.p.9

10) Shaha M.B. (2004), Khandesh Cha Sanskrutis Itihas – Khandeshchi Namcharcha, Vol.-I, K.S.Wani Pragat Adhyayan Sanstha, Dhule p.p.140-145 & 219-220.

11) Ibid 8 p.p. 164.

12) Ibid 10 p.p. 141.

13) Ibid 8 p.p.165.

54

14) Sanchalal Bafana, Nashikkar K.V,(C.E.O.) (1962), Dhule Nagar Palika, Shatsartsari Mohotsav Grandha, Dhule Nagar Palika, p.p. 3.

15) Kotkar Shridhar Vyankatesh, (1925), Maharashtra Dnyankosh Vol. - XVI, Maharashtriya Dnyankosh Mandali Ltd., Nagpur p.p. 75.

16) Ibid 10 p.p.140-141

17) Ibid 7 p.p. 80

18) Wikipedia. Available at – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhule_District on date 20/11/2012 at 10:35 pm

19) Ibid 14 p.p. 3

20) Ibid 8 p.p.167

21) Dharashivkar Mukund and Others,(2011),Samarth Dhule district 2020, Samartha Bharat Vyaspitha,Pune,p.p. 21

22) Ibid 14 p.p. 5

23) Ibid 21 p.p. 20

24) Wikipedia. Available at – http://en.wikipedia.org/---/Dondaicha-warwade on date 23/1/2013 at 11:25 pm

25) Ibid 24.

26) Ibid 9 p.p. 87.

27) Wikipedia. Available at http://en/wikipedia.org/wiki/shirpur on date 23/1/2013 at 12:40 pm

28) Ibid 27

29) Govt. of India. Election Commission Report of India.

30) Shaha M.B. (2004), Khandesh Cha Sanskrutik Itihas Vol – IV, K.S.Wani Pragat Adhyayan Sanstha, Dhule p.p.56

55

31) Ibid – 30 p.p.57.

32) Shaha G.B. ( 2004 ), Dhule Ani Nandurbar Jilhyache Swatantrya Chalavalitil Yogadan, Prathamesh Publication, Dhule, p.p.9

33) Ibid 32 p.p. 9.

34) Ibid 32 p.p. 10.

35) Ibid 32 p.p. 11

36) Kedarnath(1966),Kranti Upasak Randive Bandhu,Sadhana Prakashan,Pune, p.p. 14 .

37) Ibid 36 p.p. 124.

38) Jagatap P.D.(Edi) (1997), Khandesh Itihas,Publisher–sonawane K.R.Jalgaon,p.p. 129.

39) Phadake Y.D. (1993),Visavya Shatakatil Maharashtra Vol IV,

Vidya Prakashan, Pune, p.p. 69.

40) Ibid 32 p.p. 21-22

41) Ibid 32 p.p. 34.

42) Ibid 32 p.p. 36.

43) Ibid 39 p.p. 101.

44) Neharu Javaharlal, Translator-Sane Guruji, Karandikar N.V.,(1989) (reprint), Bharatacha Shodh, Continental Publication, Pune p.p. 560.

45) Deshpande P.N. (Edi) (1999). The Souvenir of ‘Khandesh Itihas Parishad’ Vol.-II. Publisher Khandesh Itihas Parishad, Dhule. p.p. 37 & 38.

46) Ibid 39 p.p. 86.

47) Ibid 45 p.p. 95-96.

48) Ibid 45 p.p. 97.

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49) Kulkarni Kishori Shantaram (1999), Khandesh History Conference – Anthology

Papers Part II p.p. 166.

50) Ibid 30 p.p.180.

51) Ibid 30 p.p. 180-194.

52) Ibid 51

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