Cornelia Sorabji stands as a remarkable trailblazer in the annals of women’s empowerment, legal reform, and social progress in India. Born on November 15, 1866, in Nashik, India, Sorabji shattered the gender barriers of the late 19th and 20th centuries with her indomitable spirit. Her relentless pursuit of education and her unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of marginalized women left an indelible imprint on India’s legal and social landscape.
Born into a forward-thinking and education-focused family, Cornelia Sorabji was the daughter of Reverend Sorabji Karsedji, a Zoroastrian who had converted to Christianity and dedicated his life to Christian missionary work. Her mother, Francina Ford, shared a deep commitment to girls’ education and social welfare. Sorabji’s early years were spent in Belgaum and Pune, where she received her foundational education. She later embarked on a pioneering journey by enrolling in Deccan College, becoming its very first female student.
Sorabji’s academic accomplishments were nothing short of remarkable. Graduating from Bombay University as the first Indian woman, she earned a first-class degree in literature. However, her path was not without obstacles, particularly when she sought a government scholarship for further studies in England, facing gender-based challenges. Undeterred, Sorabji embarked on a journey that would soon transform her into a symbol of resilience and determination.
In 1889, Cornelia Sorabji ventured to England to pursue higher education, finding support from influential individuals like Adelaide Manning and Mary Hobhouse. In 1892, she etched her name in history by becoming the first woman to take the Bachelor of Civil Law examination at Somerville College, Oxford. She also achieved the distinction of being the first woman to gain access to the Codrington Library of All Souls College, Oxford.
Returning to India in 1894, Sorabji dedicated herself to advocating for purdahnashins, secluded women who lacked legal representation. Recognizing the profound importance of professional recognition, she successfully passed the LLB examination of Bombay University in 1897. Her pursuit of legal expertise continued as she obtained further qualifications by passing the pleader’s examination of the Allahabad High Court in 1899.
Despite her numerous accomplishments, it was not until 1923 that Cornelia Sorabji received official recognition as India’s first female advocate when the law prohibiting women from practicing law was amended. Throughout her illustrious legal career, Sorabji tirelessly represented women and orphans in provincial courts, often providing pro bono legal assistance. Her work spanned regions such as Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, and Assam.
Cornelia Sorabji’s legacy extended beyond the realm of law. She was deeply committed to social reform and the empowerment of women. Her approach to fostering societal change emphasized the paramount importance of education for all women, firmly believing that political reform alone would fall short unless women were educated.
Sorabji’s involvement extended to various social service organizations, including the National Council for Women in India, the Federation of University Women, and the Bengal League of Social Service for Women. While she initially supported the campaign for Indian independence, her views evolved by the late 1920s, leading her to actively promote support for the British Empire.
In addition to her legal and social work, Cornelia Sorabji was a prolific writer, leaving behind a rich literary legacy. She authored numerous books, short stories, and articles that covered a wide array of topics, ranging from child welfare to Indian tales and women’s experiences. Some of her notable publications include “Love and Life beyond the Purdah” (1901), “Sun-Babies: Studies in the Child-life of India” (1904), and “India Calling: The Memories of Cornelia Sorabji” (1934). Cornelia Sorabji’s life and work continue to serve as an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.