Jyotiba (or Jyotirao) Phule was a pioneering social reformer and writer who laid the foundations for anti-caste movements and women’s education in India. While he originally wrote in Marathi, several of his works have been translated into English. Here’s a list of Jyotiba Phule’s major works available in English, along with translations and related publications:
📚 Major Books by Jyotiba Phule in English
1. “Slavery” (original: Gulamgiri, 1873)
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English Title: Slavery
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About: A scathing critique of caste-based oppression and Brahminical dominance. Phule compares the situation of lower castes in India to the African slaves in America.
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Note: The original Gulamgiri was partly written in English by Phule himself alongside Marathi.
2. “The Cultivator’s Whipcord” (original: Shetkaryacha Asud, 1881)
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About: Criticism of the exploitation of farmers by landlords, moneylenders, and the colonial system.
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Themes: Agrarian distress, social injustice, and caste-based exploitation.
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Translation available: This work has been translated into English and included in collections.
3. “Tritiya Ratna” (The Third Eye or The Third Jewel) – 1855
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Form: A play.
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About: Focuses on women’s education and challenges orthodox customs.
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Translation: Included in anthologies or academic translations.
4. “Ishara” (1885)
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About: A prophetic poem outlining the hopes of a just and equal society.
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Translation: Available in scholarly compilations.
🏛️ English Translations and Compilations
📘 Selected Writings of Jyotirao Phule
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Editor/Translator: G.P. Deshpande
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Publisher: LeftWord Books
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Contents: Includes Gulamgiri, Shetkaryacha Asud, and other key writings with critical introductions.
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Highly recommended for students, scholars, and general readers.
📘 Writings and Speeches of Jyotiba Phule
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Publisher: Maharashtra Government Publication
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Contents: Comprehensive collection in English, includes speeches, letters, and major essays.
📘 Slavery (Gulamgiri) – Critical Edition
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Translator: Maya Pandit or others (varies by edition)
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Publisher: Various academic presses
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Includes: Critical introduction, footnotes, and historical context.
Where to Find These Books:
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Online bookstores: Amazon, Flipkart, LeftWord, and Verso Books.
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Libraries and academic portals: JSTOR, Google Scholar, WorldCat.
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PDF archives: Some texts may be available via the Internet Archive or Open Library.