From Nazi Germany to Jamia Millia Islamia, she dedicated herself to children and women, enduring imprisonment and challenges, leaving a lasting legacy of love and commitment
NEW DELHI – The quiet grave of Gerda Philipsborn lies in Gulshan-e-Firdous, the cemetery of Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. Few recognise its significance, yet it marks the resting place of a Jewish woman whose last decade was devoted to nurturing an Indian Muslim educational institution. Affectionately called ‘Apa Jaan’ by Jamia’s staff and students, her story is one of courage, resilience, and extraordinary devotion.
Born in 1895 in Kiel, Germany, Gerda came from a prosperous Jewish merchant family. She pursued music and theatre at Berlin Stern Conservatory, moving in intellectual circles that included Martin Buber and Franz Kafka. Despite opportunities and privileges, Gerda yearned for a purpose greater than herself.
Her life changed in the 1920s at a Berlin gathering hosted by Suhasini Chattopadhyay, where she met Indian students Dr Zakir Hussain, Abid Hussain, and Prof Muhammad Mujeeb. Their vision for India’s educational progress inspired her.
By 1926, personal circumstances and the rise of Nazism compelled her to leave Germany. “I wanted to live a life of meaning, not just comfort,” she reportedly said. She travelled briefly to Palestine but found the political path of Zionism unsuitable, eventually arriving in India in 1933.
At Jamia Millia Islamia, Gerda was appointed to oversee the nursery and kindergarten. Her work earned her the title ‘Apa Jaan’. She visited staff homes, encouraged women to participate in education, and inspired families to support Jamia’s mission. Prof Muhammad Mujeeb reflected, “Her dedication was unmatched. She made families see Jamia not just as a school, but as a community they were part of.”
During World War II, Gerda faced new challenges. As a German national, she was detained by British authorities on suspicion of espionage and imprisoned at Ahmednagar Fort. Yet, she remained connected to Jamia. Letters and gifts from students and teachers bolstered her spirits. Upon release, she resumed her work without hesitation, continuing to guide staff and children alike.
Even as cancer took a toll on her health, Gerda remained committed. She oversaw Jamia’s work from her sickbed and awaited news of a promised grant. “She lived entirely for Jamia,” late Dr Zakir Hussain once recalled. “Even in her last moments, her thoughts were with the children and the institution.” She passed away in April 1943 and was laid to rest in Jamia’s Gulshan-e-Firdous beside the GP Hostel and GP Day Care Centre, named after her, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
Gerda Philipsborn’s life exemplifies humanity beyond borders. Sughra Mehdi, in Bachon Ki Apa Jaan, observes, “The path of serving humanity should have no conditions, and Gerda’s life teaches children, educators, and citizens the value of selfless dedication.”
Today, her photograph and grave remind Jamia Millia Islamia of her enduring influence. She showed that service is measured not by recognition, but by the lives touched, nurtured, and transformed. Students, teachers, and visitors continue to benefit from her vision, commitment, and the community ethos she left behind.
