The Hands that Built Asia
Despite the vast distance and cultural differences between Ireland and Asia, some of Ireland's most adventurous people left a lasting impact on the continent. These men and women led movements like the Suffragettes, wrote India's National Anthem, built schools and universities, reshaped China's economy, and became trusted figures across Asia. Hailing from places like Roscommon, Tyrone, and Armagh, their legacies live on in street names, schools, and shrines. Today, Irish influence continues in business and industry in the Far East. Noel Murphy travels to Asia for this series to follow the footsteps of these people.
‘Margaret Cousins – Incredible Activist in India’ Margaret Cousins from Roscommon was a leading activist in India, establishing education and suffragette movements and was known for her inspirational writing about her ‘beloved nation’ of India. She had already caused a stir at home by smashing in a window at Dublin Castle and also at 10 Downing Street and she brought her unique world view on culture, mysticism, music, political awareness to India when she and her husband moved there.
Her incredible life in India led her to become a leading activist for disadvantaged women and she even wrote the tune to the Indian National Anthem together with many other incredible adventures.
