Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
Durgabai Deshmukh was deeply influenced by her father, BVN Rama Rao, a social worker who devoted his life to helping those suffering from diseases like plague and cholera. He would take Durgabai along as he cared for victims and even carried the bodies of the dead, showing her the importance of compassion. Although Durgabai admired her father’s selflessness, she was troubled by his decision to marry her off at eight years old, a decision she later described as 'his only mistake'.
Inspired by Gandhi’s call for action, Durgabai became active in the freedom struggle at a young age. At 12, she arranged for Gandhi to meet with local women, including those from the Devadasi and Muslim communities. She raised funds and organised the meeting despite opposition, demonstrating remarkable leadership early in life.
Later, during the Salt Satyagraha of 1930, she was arrested and spent time in jail. After her release, she studied law, became a criminal lawyer, and offered free legal aid to women. She also launched an adult literacy program for widows and destitute women. Through her efforts, Durgabai founded the Andhra Mahila Sabha, which continues to support women’s rights and welfare.