3/ While Mandal’s revelation challenges the popular narrative, certain sources claim otherwise. A letter from Savitri Bai Phule reportedly mentions a Fatima, but it does not describe her as a teacher or reformist. Some state textbooks, such as those in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, mention Fatima Sheikh alongside notable figures like Zakir Hussain. However, these references do not provide verifiable evidence of her contributions as a reformist. Notably, Reeta Ramamoorthy Gupta, who researched Savitri Bai Phule’s life, mentions Fatima’s association with her as a colleague but not as a teacher. Despite Mandal’s claim, leftist and Islamist leaders continue to hail her legacy, often framing her as an underappreciated figure erased from history.