Born: July 30, 1886 (Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu)
Biography:
Muthulakshmi Reddy (also spelled Reddi in some British Indian sources) was an Indian medical practitioner, social reformer, and Padma Bhushan award recipient. Born on July 30, 1886, in the princely state of Pudukkottai in Tamil Nadu, Reddy had a remarkable career marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements.
Despite the constraints faced by girls in India during her time, Reddy defied societal norms and pursued higher education. Her father, S. Narayanaswami Iyer, was the Principal of Maharaja’s College, while her mother, Chandrammal, was a Devadasi. Due to her mixed heritage, her father was ostracized from his family. However, he broke tradition and sent Reddy to school, where her enthusiasm for learning was nurtured.
Reddy’s academic brilliance led to her admission into the Madras Medical College in 1907. She graduated in 1912, becoming one of the first female doctors in India. Throughout her medical education, Reddy earned several gold medals and prizes, demonstrating her dedication and exceptional abilities.
Reddy’s career was defined by her unwavering commitment to social reform and women’s rights. She came under the influence of prominent figures like Annie Besant and Mahatma Gandhi, who further inspired her advocacy work. In 1926, Reddy was appointed to the Madras Legislative Council, marking the beginning of her lifelong endeavor to address social abuses and promote gender equality.
Throughout her life, Reddy achieved numerous firsts and held various significant positions. She was the first woman to be admitted into a men’s college, serving as a trailblazer for future generations of women. Additionally, she became the first woman House Surgeon at the Government Maternity and Ophthalmic Hospital, breaking barriers in the medical field. Reddy’s groundbreaking contributions continued as she became the first woman Legislator in British India and the first Chairperson of the State Social Welfare Advisory Board.
Reddy’s dedication to public service and promoting social welfare continued to impact society. She served as the first woman Deputy President of the Legislative Council and played a crucial role in the Madras Corporation. In 1953, Reddy built Avvai Home, providing a safe haven for destitute women and children, further solidifying her legacy as a champion for women’s rights.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Reddy’s upbringing and close relationship with her maternal family made her particularly perceptive of the struggles faced by the Devadasi community. She vehemently opposed the subordination of women to men and was determined to challenge societal norms.
Muthulakshmi Reddy’s considerable contributions to Indian society and her tireless efforts as a social reformer and women’s advocate paved the way for future generations. Her unwavering determination to correct social abuses and promote equality in moral standards makes her an inspirational figure in women’s history.
Awards:
– Padma Bhushan award