0:00:00 > 0:00:00- *
0:00:00 > 0:00:04- Adventurous Welsh people have - explored the world for centuries.
0:00:04 > 0:00:09- Many have chronicled their stories - in words, pictures and maps.
0:00:09 > 0:00:14- I'm researching their testimony - and following in their footsteps...
0:00:15 > 0:00:17- ..to the world's - most interesting places.
0:00:17 > 0:00:20- They explored remote areas...
0:00:20 > 0:00:24- ..not knowing - who or what they'd encounter.
0:00:24 > 0:00:29- This time, we follow a missionary - who took photos, wrote books...
0:00:29 > 0:00:33- ..was an exceptional academic - and much more besides.
0:01:09 > 0:01:12- For any traveller like me - visiting India today...
0:01:13 > 0:01:15- ..this is a focal point in Delhi...
0:01:15 > 0:01:19- ..the exact place where - Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated...
0:01:19 > 0:01:23- ..after leading the country - towards independence.
0:01:23 > 0:01:27- Helen Rowlands, - the missionary from Menai Bridge...
0:01:27 > 0:01:30- ..met Gandhi and impressed him.
0:01:30 > 0:01:34- She lived in India throughout - the battle for independence.
0:01:34 > 0:01:38- She also shared many of the - principles we associate with Gandhi.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41- Peace, self-sacrifice and kindness.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51- Helen Rowlands - arrived in India in 1916...
0:01:52 > 0:01:55- ..a year after Gandhi's return - to campaign for independence.
0:01:56 > 0:01:58- She stayed for the entire campaign.
0:01:58 > 0:02:02- She supported Gandhi's attitudes - towards society and justice.
0:02:02 > 0:02:06- They belonged to different religions - but shared the same ideas.
0:02:16 > 0:02:21- Helen Rowlands was disappointed that - Gandhi didn't become a Christian.
0:02:21 > 0:02:26- According to Rowlands, he lived - and thought like a Christian.
0:02:26 > 0:02:31- In her mind, you had to identify a - tree by its fruit, not by its name.
0:02:35 > 0:02:37- Rowlands agreed - with Gandhi on issues...
0:02:38 > 0:02:41- ..such as women's rights - and understanding between religions.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44- They shared ideas - about the right way to live.
0:02:44 > 0:02:48- Had she had her way, - she would have lived like him...
0:02:48 > 0:02:53- ..with little more than a bowl, - spoon, a simple mattress and books.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57- Both appreciated the value - of teaching handcrafts...
0:02:57 > 0:02:59- ..to help people sustain themselves.
0:03:12 > 0:03:16- Hundreds of Welsh missionaries - visited India.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20- Helen Rowlands was exceptional - because of her work here...
0:03:20 > 0:03:22- ..on the plains of North-east India.
0:03:23 > 0:03:26- At the turn of the last century, - for the first time in Wales...
0:03:27 > 0:03:30- ..women received - university education.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34- As a result, more women searched - for a career beyond the home.
0:03:34 > 0:03:39- If men were in the pulpit, the - mission gave women an opportunity.
0:03:39 > 0:03:44- In the years preceding the First - World War, she worked as a teacher.
0:03:44 > 0:03:51- In 1915, she decided to leave - that world and embrace the mission.
0:03:52 > 0:03:57- It had developed rapidly - over 30 years.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01- There'd been a greater emphasis - on the recruitment of women.
0:04:01 > 0:04:06- This inspired her to embark - on her new career after 1916...
0:04:06 > 0:04:10- ..when she visited India - for the first time.
0:04:13 > 0:04:16- In October, at the age of 25...
0:04:16 > 0:04:20- ..despite having reservations - about leaving her parents...
0:04:20 > 0:04:22- ..she sailed to Calcutta...
0:04:23 > 0:04:25- ..in the middle of the Great War.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27- "The waters appeared to be calm...
0:04:28 > 0:04:31- "..but submarines darted quickly - underneath us.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- "We heard of other ships - being sunk behind us.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38- "Somehow, we remained afloat."
0:04:38 > 0:04:43- Despite the dangers, she felt - that the prayers of Welsh people...
0:04:44 > 0:04:46- ..surrounded her like a shield.
0:04:46 > 0:04:48- This was Helen o Fon's - destination...
0:04:49 > 0:04:52- ..Assam, an area renowned - for its tea production.
0:04:53 > 0:04:57- Six years earlier, Protestant - churches from different countries...
0:04:58 > 0:05:00- ..had divided India between them.
0:05:00 > 0:05:03- Welsh Presbyterians - worked in the North-east.
0:05:04 > 0:05:06- They'd had success on the hills...
0:05:06 > 0:05:09- ..but the plains - proved a greater challenge.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11- Like many missionaries...
0:05:11 > 0:05:15- ..Helen Rowlands started out - as a teacher, in Sylhet.
0:05:18 > 0:05:22- The missionary leaders soon - realised the importance of women...
0:05:23 > 0:05:25- ..to turn a society to Christ.
0:05:25 > 0:05:29- By targeting women, - they would also reach the children.
0:05:29 > 0:05:33- The emphasis was on establishing - schools for girls...
0:05:33 > 0:05:35- ..which surprised local people.
0:05:36 > 0:05:40- "'You'll ask us to send our cattle - next,' was their response.
0:05:41 > 0:05:45- "In their eyes, women and cattle - were considered equal."
0:05:46 > 0:05:51- Helen Rowlands taught 100 girls - in her school in Sylhet.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54- They were taught - to read and write...
0:05:54 > 0:05:59- ..weave and knit, with a half-hour - Bible lesson every day.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01- The girls - enjoyed hearing the stories.
0:06:01 > 0:06:04- Missionaries would also visit girls - in their homes.
0:06:04 > 0:06:08- They'd teach women home crafts - and organise Sunday schools.
0:06:10 > 0:06:13- In a letter six months - after her arrival...
0:06:13 > 0:06:17- ..Rowlands expresses her pride - at visiting India, but...
0:06:17 > 0:06:23- "The situation here is terrible. - Many only eat one meal a day.
0:06:23 > 0:06:26- "Some must go without."
0:06:39 > 0:06:43- The missionaries encountered two - international religious systems...
0:06:43 > 0:06:46- ..on the plains of Sylhet - - Islam and Hinduism.
0:06:47 > 0:06:52- These two systems were willing - to fight to retain their followers.
0:06:52 > 0:06:56- "What we saw on the streets, Hindu - and Mahometan worship houses...
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- "..and the response - we had from the people...
0:07:01 > 0:07:04- "..leads me to believe - that I am in a pagan country."
0:07:09 > 0:07:13- A month after arriving, Helen - claimed that parents asked her...
0:07:13 > 0:07:17- ..not to teach Christianity - to their children...
0:07:17 > 0:07:20- ..such was their fear - of this new religion.
0:07:20 > 0:07:23- One Saturday, - after reading Bible stories...
0:07:23 > 0:07:26- ..missionaries saw a paper - placed on a wall...
0:07:27 > 0:07:30- ..warning people not to believe - in Christianity.
0:07:32 > 0:07:36- But Helen Rowlands' priority - was the women and the children.
0:07:36 > 0:07:40- She would dismay at seeing - young girls marrying old men...
0:07:40 > 0:07:42- ..and then being left as widows - for life.
0:07:43 > 0:07:47- "I saw widows for the first time, - wearing colourless clothes.
0:07:47 > 0:07:50- "Their position - in and outside the family...
0:07:51 > 0:07:54- "..was disrespectful - and contemptible.
0:07:54 > 0:07:58- "The harvest amongst - the women of Sylhet is truly great."
0:07:58 > 0:08:03- She was a leader - in that provision for women.
0:08:03 > 0:08:05- She also taught them work skills.
0:08:05 > 0:08:09- That was exceptionally important - - how to knit and so on.
0:08:09 > 0:08:13- These sound like trivial things...
0:08:13 > 0:08:14- ..especially now...
0:08:15 > 0:08:19- ..but back then, it gave women...
0:08:19 > 0:08:23- ..the opportunity - to live independent lives.
0:08:24 > 0:08:29- One aspect of Indian life the - Welsh missionary liked the least...
0:08:29 > 0:08:32- ..was the caste system, - the enclosed class system...
0:08:33 > 0:08:37- ..which determined people's roles - and kept them in their place.
0:08:37 > 0:08:41- There was little scope for people - to improve themselves.
0:08:43 > 0:08:48- Helen experienced the consequences - of breaking the caste system...
0:08:48 > 0:08:53- ..including the story of Khetro, - a five-year-old girl.
0:08:53 > 0:08:57- Khetro's mother was in hospital. She - ate with someone from another caste.
0:08:58 > 0:09:02- When she returned to her home, - no-one was willing to care for her.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05- Not even her own mother.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- She died, leaving Khetro an orphan.
0:09:11 > 0:09:16- There were four classes and one - further class beyond the system.
0:09:17 > 0:09:19- The Namasudras, the untouchables.
0:09:19 > 0:09:22- They were treated like dirt.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26- Much of Helen Rowlands' work - centred around them.
0:09:26 > 0:09:31- Within the group, she saw - the greatest hope for conversion.
0:09:31 > 0:09:36- "I am proud of the women here.
0:09:36 > 0:09:41- "The Namasudran women - can become excellent Christians."
0:09:41 > 0:09:45- After being baptized - and accepted as Christians...
0:09:45 > 0:09:49- ..the Namasudras - were under great pressure.
0:09:49 > 0:09:51- Many returned to Hinduism.
0:09:51 > 0:09:55- Helen sought ways to work - differently to achieve success...
0:09:56 > 0:09:57- ..in this part of India.
0:10:00 > 0:10:03- Helen Rowlands wanted to work - in villages such as this.
0:10:03 > 0:10:08- In 1924, she made a formal request - to the missionary authorities...
0:10:08 > 0:10:12- ..to abandon her Western life and - move to live in places such as this.
0:10:15 > 0:10:20- "This is the life I must lead. - Side by side with the Indians.
0:10:20 > 0:10:24- "I am currently looking down - rather than sharing.
0:10:24 > 0:10:28- "That will mean sacrificing - my missionary salary."
0:10:33 > 0:10:37- This would have changed the nature - of missionary work in Sylhet.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42- She didn't think she could preach - the gospel of self-sacrifice...
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- ..unless she sacrificed elements - of her own life.
0:10:45 > 0:10:48- She thought it was - the best way to succeed.
0:10:49 > 0:10:52- She wanted to live with the people - and share their lives.
0:10:52 > 0:10:55- She believed the mission's - influence should decrease...
0:10:56 > 0:10:59- ..and India's local church - should become more prominent.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01- The authorities didn't agree.
0:11:01 > 0:11:05- They said missionaries - needed comfortable homes...
0:11:05 > 0:11:06- ..to continue their work.
0:11:07 > 0:11:11- Helen wanted to dress like a native - woman. Her request was refused.
0:11:11 > 0:11:17- She accepted the mission's answer - even though she disagreed with it.
0:11:20 > 0:11:23- For me, - great wonders remain in rural India.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28- Passing by in a car, all I could see - was a tight cluster of houses...
0:11:29 > 0:11:31- ..and the odd hayrick.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34- On exploring the area - in greater detail...
0:11:34 > 0:11:40- ..I've discovered 2,000 cattle - stored at the backs of the houses.
0:11:40 > 0:11:42- Those were the hayricks.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46- For the past 50 years, this village - has produced enough milk...
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- ..for a city of 250,000 people.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52- An industry of smallholders.
0:11:53 > 0:11:54- .
0:11:56 > 0:11:56- Subtitles
0:11:56 > 0:11:58- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:12:02 > 0:12:04- Missionary work - started in India in 1840.
0:12:05 > 0:12:10- For 120 years, there were close - links with Welsh Presbyterians.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15- The tea ships brought - tea leaves to Liverpool...
0:12:15 > 0:12:18- ..and also carried letters - from the missionaries.
0:12:19 > 0:12:21- They were read - in chapels across Wales.
0:12:21 > 0:12:24- Helen Rowlands was one - of the great missionaries.
0:12:24 > 0:12:28- Less than 10 years - after arriving in India...
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- ..an excellent teacher - and fluent in Bengali...
0:12:32 > 0:12:35- ..Helen Rowlands - accepted a new invitation.
0:12:35 > 0:12:39- She could leave the plains - during the hot summer months...
0:12:40 > 0:12:42- ..to establish a language school...
0:12:42 > 0:12:47- ..for missionaries from various - countries and denominations...
0:12:47 > 0:12:49- ..high up in the mountains.
0:12:49 > 0:12:54- She described it as going from the - great oven to the roof of the world.
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- "After a night on the train...
0:12:59 > 0:13:02- "..travelling across - the Cachar hills...
0:13:02 > 0:13:04- "..we reached Siliguri.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08- "We stopped for breakfast before - catching a bus to Darjeeling.
0:13:08 > 0:13:14- "There was a big drop in temperature - as we climbed from the plains...
0:13:14 > 0:13:16- "..towards the Himalayas."
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- Helen was a strong - and intelligent character.
0:13:26 > 0:13:30- She'd shown this from an early age, - along with her two brothers.
0:13:31 > 0:13:34- This was partly a result - of their upbringing.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36- Their father was often away at sea.
0:13:37 > 0:13:41- Their mother raised them - and she was modern in her ways.
0:13:41 > 0:13:46- She believed Helen should receive - the same education as her brothers.
0:13:46 > 0:13:49- She was allowed to concentrate - on her school work.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- The children also - had their own playroom.
0:13:53 > 0:13:56- It was evident - from her early days...
0:13:56 > 0:14:02- ..that she was adept at languages, - and French in particular.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05- She did very well at school...
0:14:05 > 0:14:08- ..before going on to study - in Bangor University.
0:14:08 > 0:14:15- She had a First Class degree which - was a rare occurrence at the time.
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- She secured a scholarship - for a research degree...
0:14:20 > 0:14:22- ..in Newnham College, Cambridge.
0:14:24 > 0:14:28- Her minister encouraged her - to become a missionary.
0:14:28 > 0:14:30- She headed to India...
0:14:30 > 0:14:34- ..and within ten years, she was - a regular visitor to Darjeeling.
0:14:35 > 0:14:38- Many supervisors - in the tea gardens were British.
0:14:38 > 0:14:43- They had originally established - the tea industry in India.
0:14:45 > 0:14:50- "I like seeing the tea bushes - growing on the slopes below.
0:14:50 > 0:14:53- "A tea planter once said - that the higher the land...
0:14:54 > 0:14:56- "..the sweeter the aroma.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00- "This is the secret - of Darjeeling tea."
0:15:00 > 0:15:04- To avoid paying vast amounts - to the Chinese for their tea...
0:15:04 > 0:15:08- ..Britain brought plants and seeds - from China...
0:15:09 > 0:15:12- ..and planted them - in fertile ground in India.
0:15:13 > 0:15:18- They created an industry in areas - which were previously overgrown.
0:15:18 > 0:15:22- Hundreds of workers were employed in - the tea gardens from across India.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26- The Welsh missionaries - were crucial to that process.
0:15:26 > 0:15:31- For me, one of the most difficult - aspects of the mission...
0:15:31 > 0:15:34- ..is creating a link to Imperialism.
0:15:34 > 0:15:39- The missionaries followed closely - in the footsteps of the military.
0:15:39 > 0:15:44- Here, it is clear that converting - locals to Christianity...
0:15:44 > 0:15:46- ..would help - the tea garden owners...
0:15:46 > 0:15:50- ..and aid British law and order.
0:15:50 > 0:15:55- The reason Thomas Jones - went there in 1840...
0:15:55 > 0:15:58- ..was to begin the work...
0:15:58 > 0:16:03- ..of bringing order - to a part of the Empire...
0:16:03 > 0:16:06- ..which had previously - been rather uncivilized.
0:16:06 > 0:16:10- When Helen Rowlands arrived, - the situation had changed.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13- The sound of independence - could be heard...
0:16:13 > 0:16:15- ..but she had a different target.
0:16:15 > 0:16:19- She wanted to see an Indian - Presbyterian Church flourishing...
0:16:20 > 0:16:21- ..on its own terms.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24- "I sympathise with Indian desires.
0:16:24 > 0:16:28- "It pains me to hear - the condemnation of Europeans."
0:16:28 > 0:16:33- Missionaries increasingly - emphasise that their role...
0:16:33 > 0:16:38- ..is not to sustain the Empire - but to create Christians.
0:16:38 > 0:16:43- Christianity is important, - not the ownership of the country.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46- During the 1920s and 1930s...
0:16:46 > 0:16:50- ..that argument - becomes more and more powerful.
0:16:52 > 0:16:55- Missionaries from various countries - worked in India.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58- Speaking the local language - was a help.
0:16:58 > 0:17:02- Helen's work in the summer school - was to teach the Bengal language.
0:17:02 > 0:17:05- The days were long but rewarding.
0:17:07 > 0:17:12- "A 6.00am start. Personal tutorials - from 7.30 to 8.30.
0:17:13 > 0:17:17- "Breakfast before walking to - the communal house for our lessons."
0:17:18 > 0:17:21- I know that Helen Rowlands - used to visit this place.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25- It was a Christian school back then, - almost 90 years ago.
0:17:26 > 0:17:29- Today, - it is a private Christian school.
0:17:29 > 0:17:33- Missionaries would come here - to be fed and to use the library.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38- Lessons would continue - until tea-time...
0:17:38 > 0:17:42- ..and Helen would lecture - on various subjects...
0:17:42 > 0:17:47- ..to introduce every aspect - of Indian life to her students.
0:17:47 > 0:17:51- "We must be friendly - and co-operate with the Indians.
0:17:51 > 0:17:55- "They courteously tolerate us - in their own country."
0:17:57 > 0:18:00- One of her subjects - was the poems of Tagore...
0:18:00 > 0:18:03- ..an important poet of the time.
0:18:03 > 0:18:08- When Tagore visited the mission, - Helen was translating his poetry...
0:18:08 > 0:18:12- ..from classical Bengali into Welsh.
0:18:12 > 0:18:17- They were circulated in Wales - during the 1920s.
0:18:26 > 0:18:29- Hello. Is this the Bengali lesson?
0:18:30 > 0:18:32- May I join you?
0:18:32 > 0:18:34- OK. I'm Dylan.
0:18:38 > 0:18:39- In English.
0:18:39 > 0:18:41- What's your name?
0:18:44 > 0:18:46- OK. Tomar nam ki.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48- Very good.
0:18:48 > 0:18:50- 'Ama' is mine.
0:18:51 > 0:18:52- Ama nom.
0:18:54 > 0:18:56- Ama nom Dylan.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59- Ami Wales theke ashchhi.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01- Ami Wales theke ashchhi.
0:19:05 > 0:19:07- Thanks to Helen Rowlands' - leadership...
0:19:07 > 0:19:10- ..Darjeeling's summer school - was a success.
0:19:10 > 0:19:14- Students would pass their - language exams with high marks.
0:19:14 > 0:19:18- In 1926, - they welcomed a special visitor.
0:19:18 > 0:19:22- Gandhi visited the school and - gave his opinion of Helen Rowlands.
0:19:22 > 0:19:26- "It is wonderful that a foreigner - who came to India in 1916...
0:19:26 > 0:19:30- "..could speak Bengali - as perfectly as a Bengalese."
0:19:38 > 0:19:40- They say this is travelling.
0:19:40 > 0:19:44- From this vantage point, - on a clear day...
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- ..you can see - almost as far as Everest.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50- For the past few days, - it's been like this.
0:19:50 > 0:19:54- In terms of views, I may as well - be standing in a box...
0:19:54 > 0:19:56- ..in a cellar in Port Talbot.
0:19:59 > 0:20:02- When Rowlands wasn't working on - the mountains during the summer...
0:20:03 > 0:20:07- ..she was spreading the gospel - on the plains the rest of the year.
0:20:07 > 0:20:11- She didn't take a holiday - for three whole years.
0:20:11 > 0:20:16- She also studied for a MA in Bengali - in Calcutta University...
0:20:16 > 0:20:20- ..to raise the language's status - amongst missionaries.
0:20:22 > 0:20:27- The mission insisted on missionaries - taking a break every now and then.
0:20:27 > 0:20:29- It was called a furlough.
0:20:29 > 0:20:33- They were expected to return - to Wales for six months or a year.
0:20:34 > 0:20:41- Rowlands went to Sorbonne University - in France to gain a PhD degree.
0:20:45 > 0:20:49- I am forever impressed - at Helen Rowlands' intellect.
0:20:49 > 0:20:55- In 1908, she gained - a First Class degree in French.
0:20:55 > 0:20:58- Kate Roberts, - a fellow student at the time...
0:20:59 > 0:21:02- ..said that such degrees - were very rare.
0:21:02 > 0:21:05- In India, - she became fluent in Bengali...
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- ..to allow her to write - and preach in the language.
0:21:09 > 0:21:12- At the end of the 1920s, - she attended Calcutta University...
0:21:12 > 0:21:16- ..and gained an MA degree in Bengali - and many other languages.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- She was also rewarded for being - the university's best student.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23- Soon after, - a PhD degree from Sorbonne...
0:21:23 > 0:21:29- ..for an essay written in French - about women in Bengali literature...
0:21:29 > 0:21:31- ..in the Middle Ages.
0:21:31 > 0:21:32- Incredible.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- She was offered chairs in Bengali - in universities...
0:21:39 > 0:21:41- ..in Britain, America and India.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- She refused them all and returned - to work as a teacher and missionary.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49- Her focus was converting Indians - to Christianity.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52- She stopped working in Darjeeling...
0:21:52 > 0:21:55- ..to concentrate - on her missionary work.
0:22:01 > 0:22:05- This is one of the areas - tourists travel through...
0:22:05 > 0:22:08- ..to cross North-east India.
0:22:08 > 0:22:14- The city of Guwahati has grown - seven-fold in the past 40 years.
0:22:14 > 0:22:18- Unfortunately, the transport system - hasn't kept pace.
0:22:18 > 0:22:22- It is now a city of 1.6m people.
0:22:22 > 0:22:27- It's a sign of the growth - that's happened in India's cities.
0:22:27 > 0:22:30- The story in rural areas - is very different.
0:22:30 > 0:22:34- With all the pollution - and exhaust fumes...
0:22:34 > 0:22:37- ..someone is paying - for this growth.
0:22:42 > 0:22:43- .
0:22:45 > 0:22:45- Subtitles
0:22:45 > 0:22:47- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:22:50 > 0:22:54- Helen Rowlands from Menai Bridge - had been worked as a missionary...
0:22:54 > 0:22:56- ..in Sylhet, India, for 15 years.
0:22:56 > 0:22:59- She also taught - at a language school in Darjeeling.
0:23:00 > 0:23:02- 1931 heralded a new era in her life.
0:23:02 > 0:23:07- She was made head - of a school for girls in Karimganj.
0:23:07 > 0:23:11- She left Darjeeling - and started her journey.
0:23:11 > 0:23:16- One of the first things - that struck Rowlands was the heat...
0:23:16 > 0:23:18- ..especially in summer.
0:23:19 > 0:23:22- Muggy and sultry on cloudy days - and scorching in the sunshine.
0:23:23 > 0:23:25- As one of the missionaries - pointed out...
0:23:26 > 0:23:30- ..the plains were hot-beds - for another reason.
0:23:31 > 0:23:37- Religiously, two strong religions - existed - Hinduism and Islam.
0:23:37 > 0:23:42- Politically, the battle - for Indian independence intensified.
0:23:42 > 0:23:44- It often turned violent.
0:23:54 > 0:23:57- That violence could be aimed - at missionaries.
0:23:57 > 0:23:59- They were associated...
0:23:59 > 0:24:03- ..with the oppressive - British Imperialistic order.
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- Helen believed - in Indian independence...
0:24:07 > 0:24:09- ..for its country and Church.
0:24:10 > 0:24:15- The missionaries understood - they had to operate on many levels.
0:24:15 > 0:24:20- They maintained that their aim - was to create a Christian society...
0:24:20 > 0:24:25- ..but they knew it would - never happen in their lifetime.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29- There were other things - they could achieve.
0:24:29 > 0:24:32- They could transform society, - modernise it...
0:24:32 > 0:24:37- ..introduce rights for women, better - living conditions for children...
0:24:37 > 0:24:43- ..better education - these were part - of the process of changing society.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46- They also persevered - with their Christian mission.
0:24:48 > 0:24:52- Today's Karimganj would have been - unfamiliar, even for Helen Rowlands.
0:24:52 > 0:24:54- It's larger and busier.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57- There are less green spaces - for relaxation.
0:24:58 > 0:25:02- The buildings have changed, - transportation has changed...
0:25:02 > 0:25:05- ..the people's clothing has changed.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08- The people remain the same - and here, in Karimganj...
0:25:08 > 0:25:12- ..Helen Rowlands - did her most important work.
0:25:14 > 0:25:16- She was welcomed - as she visited the towns.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19- People would turn to her - for different reasons...
0:25:19 > 0:25:22- ..to fill in forms - or obtain medicine.
0:25:22 > 0:25:26- One smallholder turned to her - because a neighbour's bull...
0:25:26 > 0:25:28- ..had destroyed his rice crop.
0:25:28 > 0:25:33- She thought that helping people - would lead them to Christ.
0:25:33 > 0:25:36- She also witnessed hatred.
0:25:36 > 0:25:41- Many suffered in their villages - after converting to Christianity.
0:25:41 > 0:25:44- They were prevented - from washing in the lakes.
0:25:44 > 0:25:49- They were refused clean water, they - were shut out of people's homes.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- The more she lived with Indians...
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- ..the more Rowlands believed her - missionary work needed to change.
0:25:58 > 0:26:00- In 1937, her wishes were granted.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04- Missionary schools in Karimganj - were closed down.
0:26:04 > 0:26:09- Teachers were released from teaching - to work "from the bottom up".
0:26:10 > 0:26:15- They targeted the needs of children - and mothers in rural areas.
0:26:15 > 0:26:20- Soon, she established Dipti Nibash - - House of Light.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23- She was appalled - at the old way of life for women.
0:26:24 > 0:26:28- Dipti Nibash provided shelter, a - home for women, widows and orphans.
0:26:32 > 0:26:35- They learnt how to make jam, - sew handkerchiefs...
0:26:35 > 0:26:39- ..knit socks, weave blankets, - make silk and grow rice.
0:26:40 > 0:26:45- Everyone had to contribute in some - way to achieve self-sufficiency.
0:26:48 > 0:26:53- Right from the start, Rowlands - realised that a skill was important.
0:26:53 > 0:26:57- Simple things such - as a spinning-wheel and weaver...
0:26:58 > 0:27:01- ..would be important - for the rural economy.
0:27:01 > 0:27:04- It also offered a future - for the women...
0:27:04 > 0:27:09- ..and sometimes raised funds - for the work of the House of Light.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13- Having said that, I'm not sure - this was the type of future...
0:27:14 > 0:27:16- ..that Helen Rowlands had envisaged.
0:27:17 > 0:27:20- In this little factory - behind a shop, women work...
0:27:20 > 0:27:22- ..but the salary is a pittance.
0:27:23 > 0:27:26- 100 rupees a day - a pound.
0:27:30 > 0:27:33- These workshops - are a symbol of the inequality...
0:27:33 > 0:27:35- ..that remains in India.
0:27:35 > 0:27:38- Wealth for some, poverty for others.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42- Despite Gandhi and Helen Rowlands' - hopes, little changed.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46- There are far worse places - than this.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48- Some Western clothes shops...
0:27:49 > 0:27:54- ..capitalise on cheap labour and - poor working conditions in India.
0:27:54 > 0:27:58- This shop - is very different to the workshop.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03- It's clean, modern - and a mat made by the women...
0:28:03 > 0:28:06- ..can sell for eight times - their daily salary.
0:28:09 > 0:28:12- In Dipti Nibash, - care and fairness were key aspects.
0:28:12 > 0:28:16- Helen talks of the children - singing and praying.
0:28:16 > 0:28:20- "I enjoy having them around me. - It's like a real home."
0:28:21 > 0:28:23- She would nurse a child - as she typed...
0:28:24 > 0:28:27- ..wash another's face - and share sweets from Wales.
0:28:27 > 0:28:30- She was didima - the grandmother.
0:28:31 > 0:28:33- "Sunday was a difficult time.
0:28:33 > 0:28:36- "Nikhil and Naba Kishor's mothers - were incensed.
0:28:36 > 0:28:40- "Nikhil's mother - bit the other mother's arms.
0:28:40 > 0:28:44- "She said she would rather kill - the children...
0:28:44 > 0:28:47- "..than have them raised - as Christians.
0:28:47 > 0:28:51- "The easy option would be to send - them away but that's not the answer.
0:28:51 > 0:28:55- "We want the children to have - a mother, but a new mother.
0:28:55 > 0:28:57- "We must tolerate this behaviour."
0:28:58 > 0:29:03- The door was open to any mother - or child in search of a safe haven.
0:29:05 > 0:29:11- This is one of those rare moments - when you've read about someone...
0:29:11 > 0:29:14- ..and then you feel their presence.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19- Helen Rowlands' presence - can still be felt in this room.
0:29:19 > 0:29:22- These books highlight her interests.
0:29:22 > 0:29:25- There are Welsh books, - English books, French books...
0:29:25 > 0:29:28- ..a Welsh New Testament, - hymn books....
0:29:28 > 0:29:32- ..and Canu Llywarch Hen, - given to her by Ifor Williams...
0:29:32 > 0:29:35- ..the author, - a book of early Welsh poetry.
0:29:36 > 0:29:42- These are her notes for her essay - about the early poetry of Bengal.
0:29:43 > 0:29:45- You can only be astounded - by her work.
0:29:45 > 0:29:50- She writes in Welsh and English - very neatly.
0:29:50 > 0:29:52- According to the headmaster...
0:29:52 > 0:29:56- ..her writing in Bengali - is also very accomplished.
0:29:57 > 0:30:00- Helen Rowlands - had great communication skills.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03- Relaying information - was an important part...
0:30:04 > 0:30:09- ..of a missionary's work - to help the fundraising campaign.
0:30:09 > 0:30:13- Helen would include photos - of children in her reports...
0:30:13 > 0:30:15- ..to bring her work to life.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18- In one year, - she wrote over 900 letters.
0:30:19 > 0:30:22- To the mission's offices, - her friends...
0:30:22 > 0:30:25- ..and her closest friend, - Evelyn Roberts.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28- When she returned to Wales - on a furlough...
0:30:28 > 0:30:30- ..she would stay - with Evelyn Roberts.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34- On returning to India once, - she said everything was fine.
0:30:34 > 0:30:38- Had Evelyn been with her, - it would have been perfect.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41- "My joy would be complete - if you were here too."
0:30:41 > 0:30:44- Evelyn was very supportive.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48- She would send books, magazines, - corsets and suspenders.
0:30:49 > 0:30:52- She made sure they were ones - that wouldn't rust.
0:30:52 > 0:30:56- Evelyn attended Pont Morlais chapel - in Merthyr Tydfil.
0:30:56 > 0:31:00- When the chapel closed, - a contribution from its sale...
0:31:01 > 0:31:03- ..was sent to the House of Light.
0:31:03 > 0:31:06- "The name of Pont Morlais - is above the door.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- "When the name is but a memory - in Merthyr...
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- "..it will live on in Karimganj."
0:31:12 > 0:31:15- This is true. The name remains - to this day in Karimganj.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19- The building is home - to Christian teachers and families.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24- Funds were always stretched - in the House of Light.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26- Jam and blankets would be sold.
0:31:27 > 0:31:33- When the situation became critical, - Helen invested her own savings.
0:31:33 > 0:31:35- "Between everything...
0:31:35 > 0:31:39- "..my matured life insurance - and my money from home...
0:31:39 > 0:31:42- "..I can perform miracles here."
0:31:46 > 0:31:49- Whilst following Helen's life story - in India...
0:31:50 > 0:31:55- ..it becomes clear that her time in - Dipti Nibash is the most important.
0:31:55 > 0:32:00- I'm in search of children who lived - in the House of Light 60 years ago.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04- Horesh Watson is now 67 years old.
0:32:12 > 0:32:16- When I was three years old, my - mother, brother and sister died...
0:32:16 > 0:32:18- ..during an earthquake.
0:32:19 > 0:32:21- My father became very ill.
0:32:21 > 0:32:24- He was mentally ill, - he tried to kill himself and me.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26- He had caring friends...
0:32:26 > 0:32:30- ..and they told him about - Helen Rowlands and Dipti Nibash.
0:32:34 > 0:32:36- He stayed until he was 13 years old.
0:32:37 > 0:32:40- One notable event - sticks in his mind.
0:32:40 > 0:32:43- I was naughty - and I was sent out of class.
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- I had to wear a piece of slate - around my midriff as punishment.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50- Even though I was naughty...
0:32:50 > 0:32:53- ..Dr Rowlands said - she'd accept my punishment.
0:32:53 > 0:32:55- I have something to show you.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01- Can you see your name there?
0:33:03 > 0:33:07- Helen had written about Horesh - and that exact same incident.
0:33:07 > 0:33:13- "'Stand up, Horesh, - I've come to take your punishment.'
0:33:13 > 0:33:16- "'No, no, Didima,' - he screamed and cried.
0:33:16 > 0:33:21- "'Stand up, I can't bear this. - I'll be a good boy.'
0:33:21 > 0:33:23- "He was forgiven."
0:33:23 > 0:33:26- Very nice, very funny.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29- It's true. It's true.
0:33:30 > 0:33:32- I can not forget it.
0:33:32 > 0:33:35- And she couldn't forget it either.
0:33:37 > 0:33:38- It is very wonderful.
0:33:49 > 0:33:53- In some ways, this small church - is evidence of Helen's influence.
0:33:54 > 0:33:56- It was established ten years ago.
0:33:56 > 0:34:00- Pastor Benjamin, - its founding minister...
0:34:00 > 0:34:03- ..had been taught by Helen Rowlands.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06- He also spent time - in the House of Light.
0:34:06 > 0:34:10- More importantly, - Helen Rowlands told him...
0:34:10 > 0:34:13- ..that he should become a minister.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20- Dr Rowlands was very kind.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23- They would call her Didima - - grandmother.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28- I'd chosen to be baptized - a Christian.
0:34:28 > 0:34:31- I was forced to leave my village.
0:34:34 > 0:34:38- Dr Rowlands said, - "We must care for Benjamin.
0:34:38 > 0:34:41- "One day he will lead the church."
0:34:48 > 0:34:52- The Christianity which developed - and evolved in this area...
0:34:52 > 0:34:57- ..had strong Indian characteristics.
0:34:57 > 0:35:02- Its form of expression, - its style, its music, its hymns...
0:35:03 > 0:35:06- ..the way they used the Bible, - the way they spoke to each other...
0:35:07 > 0:35:11- ..and the way they organised - their Christian community.
0:35:11 > 0:35:16- Leaders such as Helen Rowlands - understood this and supported it.
0:35:17 > 0:35:24- They felt strongly that Christianity - was the religion of the West.
0:35:24 > 0:35:27- Their role was to relay its message.
0:35:36 > 0:35:37- .
0:35:40 > 0:35:40- Subtitles
0:35:40 > 0:35:42- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:35:48 > 0:35:51- The pinnacle - of Helen Rowlands' career...
0:35:51 > 0:35:54- ..was establishing - the Dipti Nibash in Karimganj.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57- But that's not her - only contribution.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01- This college was opened - in Karimganj in 1946.
0:36:02 > 0:36:05- Helen Rowlands would visit - once a week to lecture the students.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08- She established - the Bengali department.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12- She could have secured - a full-time role here...
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- ..but she wanted to work - in the House of Light.
0:36:16 > 0:36:18- Towards the end of her life...
0:36:18 > 0:36:21- ..she admitted - to being offered teaching posts...
0:36:21 > 0:36:23- ..at numerous universities.
0:36:24 > 0:36:27- Although she rejected them all, - she had no regrets.
0:36:28 > 0:36:32- She had no interest - in an academic career.
0:36:32 > 0:36:35- She wanted to spread the gospel - in India.
0:36:35 > 0:36:39- When she wrote her PhD, - she revealed her desires.
0:36:41 > 0:36:44- This was written in 1930, when - the campaign for independence...
0:36:44 > 0:36:48- ..was gathering speed in India.
0:36:48 > 0:36:52- She had lived with - the Bengali people since 1916.
0:36:53 > 0:36:56- She was dedicated - to the service of India...
0:36:56 > 0:37:02- ..and had aspirations in the future - to walk side-by-side with India...
0:37:02 > 0:37:04- ..towards the dawn of a new life...
0:37:05 > 0:37:07- ..when her deepest desires - are realised.
0:37:08 > 0:37:14- During that time, the national - movement led by Gandhi, develops...
0:37:14 > 0:37:19- ..and the missionaries - play a part in that process...
0:37:19 > 0:37:23- ..partly by creating the type - of people that became active...
0:37:24 > 0:37:30- ..by providing them with literacy - and historical information.
0:37:31 > 0:37:35- They were part of the political - change that swept through India.
0:37:38 > 0:37:42- In 1947, the Indian Independence Act - was passed.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- Two countries were created - independent of Great Britain...
0:37:47 > 0:37:49- ..Pakistan and India.
0:37:49 > 0:37:53- There would be religious freedom - and an end to the caste system.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56- "This is a tremendous victory.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58- "Freedom, according to state law...
0:37:59 > 0:38:03- "..allows us to preach and - spread the gospel of any religion.
0:38:03 > 0:38:08- "There is no such thing - as an outcaste or an untouchable."
0:38:10 > 0:38:14- More than anything, Helen had wanted - an end to the caste system.
0:38:15 > 0:38:18- It's difficult for me, - an outsider...
0:38:18 > 0:38:22- ..to determine what has happened - to the caste system today.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25- Officially and legally, - it no longer exists.
0:38:25 > 0:38:30- People aren't kept - at a certain level in society.
0:38:30 > 0:38:35- It appears that the Namasudras, - the untouchables, no longer exist.
0:38:35 > 0:38:40- On the other hand, some people - are still kept in their place.
0:38:40 > 0:38:44- It appears that some people still - marry from within their caste.
0:38:44 > 0:38:48- It exists in some ways, - in people's minds and cultures.
0:38:56 > 0:38:59- The Kushiyara river - flows past Karimganj.
0:39:00 > 0:39:03- It's one of the city's - most picturesque areas.
0:39:03 > 0:39:05- In 1947, it was a cause for concern.
0:39:06 > 0:39:09- During Indian independence, - there were divisions.
0:39:09 > 0:39:11- India on this side, - Pakistan on that side.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15- It is now Bangladesh, - but at the time, it was Pakistan.
0:39:15 > 0:39:20- For months, refugees flowed - from one side to the other.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24- At one time, Karimganj was - in Pakistan, then it was in India.
0:39:26 > 0:39:30- Helen Rowlands lived on the border - in North-east India...
0:39:30 > 0:39:33- ..where refugees crossed.
0:39:33 > 0:39:37- Almost 40% of Hindus left East - Pakistan, crossing over to India.
0:39:38 > 0:39:42- Muslims on the other side, - Hindus on this side.
0:39:42 > 0:39:45- The situation - worried Helen Rowlands.
0:39:45 > 0:39:47- Refugees stayed in Dipti Nibash.
0:39:48 > 0:39:52- There were deaths, - there was persecution and pain.
0:39:55 > 0:39:58- "These are perilous times.
0:39:58 > 0:40:02- "Homes and shops - were destroyed and burnt.
0:40:02 > 0:40:04- "People were killed.
0:40:04 > 0:40:06- "Martial law is in place.
0:40:06 > 0:40:10- "No more than five people - can gather on the streets.
0:40:10 > 0:40:16- "The governor told me that the - population had risen from 20,000...
0:40:16 > 0:40:18- "..to 25,000.
0:40:18 > 0:40:23- "The difficulty is organising - medical care for the refugees.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26- "Hundreds die of cholera - and smallpox."
0:40:28 > 0:40:32- She emphasized from the very - beginning how important it was...
0:40:32 > 0:40:35- ..if a new country was formed...
0:40:36 > 0:40:41- ..it shouldn't be separated...
0:40:41 > 0:40:45- ..in terms of religion - or tribal groups.
0:40:45 > 0:40:48- That's precisely what happened.
0:40:48 > 0:40:50- That was the tragedy of India - after 1947.
0:40:53 > 0:40:58- She recalls seeing Hindus killed - on a train while fleeing Pakistan.
0:40:58 > 0:41:01- When the train - reached Karimganj in India...
0:41:01 > 0:41:05- ..innocent Muslims in the town - were persecuted.
0:41:05 > 0:41:11- What she witnessed was part of the - tragedy that swept both countries.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- A million people died - from both sides.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20- Despite this, she was overjoyed - when the law was passed.
0:41:20 > 0:41:25- India became an independent country - on January 6, 1950.
0:41:27 > 0:41:31- "At the crack of dawn, the - three-coloured banner was hoisted.
0:41:31 > 0:41:34- "Green, white and saffron. - No more Union Jacks.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39- "Tears fell from my eyes - time and time again...
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- "..as the people's desires - were realized."
0:41:46 > 0:41:49- The same constitution - remains in place today...
0:41:50 > 0:41:54- ..but I don't think even she - could have imagined seeing this.
0:41:54 > 0:42:01- In Assam and Tripura, the Indian - General Election of 2014 began.
0:42:01 > 0:42:05- These are the first hours - of the first day of the election.
0:42:05 > 0:42:08- The process lasts - for more than five weeks.
0:42:08 > 0:42:12- The vote moves from state to state - across this vast country.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16- These are the first people - to vote in the election.
0:42:16 > 0:42:21- The first people from the 840m - people who have a right to vote.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27- What would Helen - have made of the result?
0:42:27 > 0:42:31- The victors were a party - that represented Hindus.
0:42:31 > 0:42:35- There are concerns they will - ignore the desires of people...
0:42:35 > 0:42:38- ..from other religions - and backgrounds.
0:42:39 > 0:42:43- The banks of the Kushiyara river - is a busy place.
0:42:43 > 0:42:48- In the days of Helen Rowlands, there - were public areas along the river.
0:42:48 > 0:42:52- There, she experienced an event - she was proudest of.
0:42:52 > 0:42:54- During the time of Gandhi's death...
0:42:55 > 0:42:58- ..she was part - of the public memorial in Karimganj.
0:42:58 > 0:43:01- A memorial service - was held on the riverbank.
0:43:01 > 0:43:03- Many religions were included.
0:43:03 > 0:43:07- After the Hindu scriptures - and the Koran was read...
0:43:07 > 0:43:10- ..she read extracts from the Bible.
0:43:10 > 0:43:14- For her, it was an indication - that her religion was now accepted.
0:43:16 > 0:43:22- She was part of the three religious - communities that joined together.
0:43:22 > 0:43:27- "Gandhi died to open a door - for representatives of Christ.
0:43:27 > 0:43:31- "Previously, - the door had only been ajar."
0:43:32 > 0:43:36- Towards the end of 1954, - after spending time in Wales...
0:43:36 > 0:43:41- ..Helen Rowlands returned to the - House of Light for the final time.
0:43:41 > 0:43:43- She knew it was the final time.
0:43:43 > 0:43:46- She'd been diagnosed - with a serious illness.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48- Few people knew about it.
0:43:48 > 0:43:51- When she returned, - the welcome was as warm as ever.
0:43:51 > 0:43:55- The children shouted, - "Didima is back, Didima is back."
0:43:57 > 0:44:00- India, and Dipti Nibash, - was her home.
0:44:00 > 0:44:03- She wanted to become - an Indian citizen...
0:44:03 > 0:44:06- ..thus forfeiting - her British passport.
0:44:06 > 0:44:10- "It's been a month - since I arrived back in Karimganj.
0:44:10 > 0:44:14- "My heart is filled with joy - once more.
0:44:14 > 0:44:18- "It's a pleasure to be stopped - on the street by non-Christians...
0:44:19 > 0:44:23- "..who tell me they are happy - to have me back here again."
0:44:23 > 0:44:25- People who were here at the time...
0:44:26 > 0:44:30- ..claim she was on a higher - spiritual plain on her return.
0:44:30 > 0:44:32- In February 1955, she passed away.
0:44:33 > 0:44:36- She was buried here, - in the grounds of Dipti Nibash...
0:44:36 > 0:44:38- ..according to her wishes.
0:44:41 > 0:44:45- When she died, her body - was laid to rest in the chapel.
0:44:46 > 0:44:48- Around 8,000 people paid tribute.
0:44:48 > 0:44:51- A request was made to carry - her body through the town...
0:44:51 > 0:44:55- ..but the Church decided this didn't - conform to Christian custom.
0:44:55 > 0:44:59- It was an indication of respect - from all religions.
0:44:59 > 0:45:03- When she was buried, the chapel - was full. Hundreds stood outside.
0:45:03 > 0:45:06- The children of Dipti Nibash - sat with her coffin.
0:45:06 > 0:45:11- The eulogy described how the mothers - and children of Dipti Nibash...
0:45:12 > 0:45:14- ..had lost a loving mother.
0:45:14 > 0:45:18- She not only belonged to Wales - and Christianity, but to everyone.
0:45:18 > 0:45:21- The lowly and the noble, the - intellectuals and the uneducated.
0:45:24 > 0:45:28- Although she didn't become - a citizen of the new India...
0:45:28 > 0:45:30- ..she was part of its heart.
0:45:30 > 0:45:33- She remains in people's - minds and hearts today.
0:45:33 > 0:45:36- PRAYER
0:45:41 > 0:45:43- In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
0:45:46 > 0:45:50- This is a relatively new school. - It was built less than 30 years ago.
0:45:50 > 0:45:53- It was named in memory - of Helen Rowlands.
0:45:53 > 0:45:57- It was built by the Mizoram Synod - of the Indian Presbyterian Church.
0:45:57 > 0:46:01- It's a private Christian school...
0:46:01 > 0:46:03- ..and teaches - through the medium of English.
0:46:04 > 0:46:06- It was named after Helen Rowlands.
0:46:06 > 0:46:10- Without her, it wouldn't be here.
0:46:13 > 0:46:17- When Helen Rowlands died, - Dipti Nibash closed down.
0:46:17 > 0:46:21- Didima had passed away and with her, - the driving force.
0:46:24 > 0:46:27- One of the most interesting aspects - is that the mission...
0:46:28 > 0:46:33- ..had offered different options - across a wide range of fields...
0:46:33 > 0:46:35- ..for young women.
0:46:36 > 0:46:40- They had the skills to do this work - as doctors, nurses and teachers.
0:46:40 > 0:46:43- These were careers of a high status.
0:46:44 > 0:46:47- Such opportunities - were rare in Wales and Britain.
0:46:47 > 0:46:53- The mission offered different - opportunities and possibilities.
0:47:03 > 0:47:06- I don't think anyone would argue, - then and now...
0:47:06 > 0:47:10- ..that the mission had been - a great success on the plains.
0:47:10 > 0:47:14- Very few people were converted - to Christianity...
0:47:14 > 0:47:18- ..and often, the other two religions - would accept them back.
0:47:18 > 0:47:22- Would it have been different - had Helen Rowlands had her way...
0:47:22 > 0:47:25- ..and provided a mission - that was closer to the people?
0:47:25 > 0:47:29- Would it have been different - if she wasn't influenced...
0:47:29 > 0:47:31- ..by male-dominated committees?
0:47:31 > 0:47:36- What remains is the legacy of - her care for children and people...
0:47:36 > 0:47:39- ..and her contribution - to education in Karimganj.
0:48:03 > 0:48:05- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:48:05 > 0:48:06- .