Theosophical Society Association

The question asks to identify the individual among the given choices who is associated with the Theosophical Society. Let's examine the options:

Understanding the Theosophical Society

The Theosophical Society is an organization founded in 1875 by Helena Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, and others. It aims to promote universal brotherhood, encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy, and science, and investigate the unexplained laws of nature and the powers latent in humanity.

Analyzing the Options

• Annie Besant: Annie Besant was a prominent British social activist, writer, orator, and supporter of Irish and Indian self-rule. She joined the Theosophical Society in 1889 and became its second president in 1907, succeeding Helena Blavatsky and Henry Olcott. She was instrumental in spreading theosophical ideas globally and played a significant role in Indian politics and the independence movement. Therefore, Annie Besant is strongly associated with the Theosophical Society.
• Tarabai Shinde: Tarabai Shinde (1850–1910) was a feminist writer from Maharashtra, India. She is known for her critique of the patriarchal structures and religious traditions that oppressed women, particularly through her work "Stree Purush Tulana" (A Comparison Between Women and Men). Her primary association is with the women's rights movement, not the Theosophical Society.
• Sarojini Naidu: Sarojini Naidu was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement, a poet, and a political activist. While she was influenced by the nationalist and spiritual currents of her time, including theosophical ideas circulating in India, her main association was with the Indian National Congress and literature. She was not a core member or leader of the Theosophical Society in the way Annie Besant was.
• Savitri Bai Phule: Savitri Bai Phule was a pioneering social reformer, educator, and poet from Maharashtra. Along with her husband Jyotirao Phule, she worked tirelessly for women's education and against the caste system in India during the 19th century. Her work predates and is distinct from the Theosophical Society's major activities in India.

Conclusion on Association

Based on the historical roles and primary affiliations of the individuals listed, Annie Besant is the person most directly and significantly associated with the leadership and propagation of the Theosophical Society.