The 108th Birthday of Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz, an active leader in the Pakistan Movement, will be observed on April 7.
According to a press release issued here on Tuesday, Begum Shahnawaz was arrested several times during 1946-47 for taking part in the Independence Movement.
She was daughter of Sir Mian Muhammad Shafi, President of All India Muslim League and the first Muslim leader who firmly stood for separate electorate for the Muslims of India throughout his political career despite lucrative offers by British government to change his demand for separate electoral.
Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz was the only woman who was invited thrice to Round Table Conferences at London as sole representative of women of India.
She also had the honour of being the first lady to address the audience of the Guildhall (St.) James palace in its 600-year old history.
Begum Shahnawaz remained Member Legislative Assembly from 1947 to 1961 till her retirement from active politics. During her life she donated more than 62 squares of land for educational and welfare projects.
She was a graduate of Queen Marry College. She also served as Senior Vice-President of the All Pakistan Women's Association (APWA).
She also wrote some books including 'Behind the Veil' and an autobiography, 'Father & Daughter'.
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