Archive · 20 Sep 2025
Gerda Philipsborn: The German Jewish Woman of Jamia Milia
Gerda Philipsborn, a German Jewish woman, moved to India and dedicated her life to Jamia Millia Islamia.
She worked with children, introducing arts and crafts, focusing on their health and hygiene, and promoting their self-expression.
Inspired by Indian students in Germany, she became a beloved figure known as 'Aapa Jaan.'
Her work included supporting girls' education.
Gerda’s ideas contributed to Gandhi’s Basic Education program.
She is remembered through her tombstone in the Jamia Qabristan.
Gerda Philipsborn was a German-born Jewish woman who served Jamia Millia Islamia.
She was a trained opera singer before coming to India.
She arrived in Delhi in 1932 and formally joined Jamia in 1933.
Gerda focused on the children’s well-being and encouraged creative expression.
She became a beloved figure at Jamia, known as 'Aapa Jaan'.
- Who
- Gerda Philipsborn, a German Jewish woman.
- What
- Became a key figure and served at Jamia Millia Islamia in India.
- When
- From 1933 to 1943.
- Where
- Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi.
- Why
- Inspired by the work of Indian students in Germany, and dedicated herself to education and social work.
- Name
- Gerda Philipsborn
- Born
- April 30, 1895, Kiel, Germany
- Died
- April 14, 1943, Delhi
- Known for
- Contribution to Jamia Millia Islamia
- Nationality
- German
- Profession
- Opera singer, educator