Rana Liaquat Ali Khan is revered as one of Pakistan’s most eminent female leaders, earning the esteemed title of “Mother of Pakistan” in 1950. Recognized for her unwavering dedication to humanity and the empowerment of women, she received the United Nations Human Rights Award in 1978. Her remarkable achievements include the Jane Adam’s Medal, Woman of Achievement Medal, and the Mother of Pakistan accolade, all in 1950. Further honors include the Nishan-i-Imtiaz in 1959, Grand Cross of Orange Nassau in 1961 (the Netherlands), International Gimbel Award in 1962, Woman of the World in 1965 by the Turkish Women’s Association in Ankara, and Vavaliera di Gran Croce in 1966 (Italy). Rana Liaquat Ali Khan’s legacy is marked by her numerous accolades, symbolizing a lifetime of tireless advocacy for women’s rights and her significant impact on the global stage.
Introduction
Begum Ra’ana Liaqat Ali Khan, born Sheila Irene Pant on February 13, 1905, in Almora, Kumaon, played a crucial role in the formative years of Pakistan. She was a distinguished economist, a key figure in the Pakistan Movement, and the First Lady of Pakistan from 1947 to 1951 as the wife of Liaquat Ali Khan, the country’s first Prime Minister.
Early Life and Education
Sheila Irene Pant, born into a Kumaoni Brahmin family, adopted Christianity. Her real name was Sheila Irene pant. She passed her matriculation from her native school. She got her B.A Economics and B.T in Religion studies in 1927. Later she obtained a double M.S.c in Economics and Sociology with Honors in 1929. She began her career as a teacher in the Gokhale Memorial School after completing the Teachers Diploma Course from the Diocesan College, Calcutta. After her Master’s degree, Raana was appointed as Professor of Economics in the Indraprastha College University, of New Delhi in 1931.
Pakistan Movement
Ra’ana actively participated in the Pakistan Movement, serving as an executive member of Jinnah’s Working Committee. She played a crucial role in convincing Muhammad Ali Jinnah to return to the British Indian Empire to lead the All India Muslim League. Raana proved to be Liaquat Ali Khan’s constant partner and companion. She became politically involved with her husband and played a major role in Pakistan Movement.
First Lady of Pakistan
As First Lady, she initiates reforms for woman and child development, social progress of woman and played a major role for woman’s part in Pakistan’s politics. After the assassination of her husband Liaquat Ali Khan in 1951, Begum Raana continued her services for the social and economic benefit of women of Pakistan till her death in 1990. One of the daunting challenges for her was to organize health services for women and children migrating from India to Pakistan.
Initiatives for Women
Ra’ana founded the Women’s National Guard, advocating for women’s rights. She established the All Pakistan Women’s Association (APWA) in 1949, a voluntary organization for women’s social, educational, and cultural uplift.
Career as a Stateswoman
Following her husband’s death, Ra’ana embarked on a distinguished career as a stateswoman. She became the first Muslim woman delegate to the United Nations in 1952 and served as Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Netherlands and Italy.
Bhutto’s Companion
In the 1970s, Ra’ana aligned with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s political movement. She played a significant role in Bhutto’s Ministry of Finance and Economics, winning parliamentary elections in 1973 and becoming the first woman Governor of Sindh Province.
Opposition to Zia-ul-Haq
During General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law, Ra’ana opposed the regime and fought against the military government. Despite her illness and old age, she publicly criticized Zia-ul-Haq for passing laws contradictory to Islamic teachings and detrimental to women’s rights.
Legacy and Honors
Ra’ana Liaqat Ali Khan, commonly known as the “Mother of Pakistan,” received numerous awards, including the United Nations Human Rights Award in 1978. Her legacy lives on through institutions and settlements named in her honor.
Death and Recognition
Begum Liaquat Ali Khan passed away on June 13, 1990, leaving behind a historic legacy. Rana Liaquat Ali Khan’s legacy continues to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark as a symbol of resilience, leadership, and tireless advocacy for the rights of women, making her a revered figure in Pakistan’s rich tapestry of influential leaders.