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Muthulakshmi Reddy was an Indian medical practitioner, social reformer, and Padma Bhushan award recipient. She defied societal norms to pursue higher education, becoming one of the first female doctors in India. Reddy dedicated her life to social reform and women’s rights, achieving numerous groundbreaking firsts and holding significant positions. Her unwavering determination to promote equality and correct social abuses makes her an inspirational figure in women’s history.
Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi, born in 1865 in Kalyan, India, became the first Indian female doctor of western medicine. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the loss of her child and battling poor health, Anandibai’s determination led her to graduate with an MD degree in 1886 from the Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania. Although her life was tragically short, her achievements inspired many and shattered gender barriers in Indian society.
Kadambini Ganguly, a pioneering woman medical doctor in India, broke barriers in both medicine and politics. She was the first Indian woman to practice medicine in her home country and went on to establish a successful medical practice. Kadambini also played an active role in politics and became the first woman speaker in the Indian National Congress. Her legacy continues to inspire women to strive for their dreams and fight against societal constraints.
Florence Dissent, also known as Mrs. Dissent Barnes, was an Anglo-Indian medical practitioner and surgeon. She became one of the first female Indian doctors to practice medicine. Dissent’s impressive qualifications and groundbreaking medical career made her an exemplary role model for aspiring female doctors. Her dedication to her profession and advocacy for women’s access to healthcare left a lasting impact on the medical profession and the lives of countless individuals.
T. S. Kanaka, Asia’s first female neurosurgeon, revolutionized the medical world with her groundbreaking contributions and pioneering work in functional neurosurgery. From her early education to her illustrious career, Kanaka left an indelible mark on the field. She was not only a dedicated surgeon but also a compassionate advocate for healthcare access, earning her respect and admiration. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of female neurosurgeons.
Mary Poonen Lukose was an Indian gynecologist, obstetrician, and pioneer in the field of women’s health in India. She is best known for being the first female Surgeon General in India and for her contributions to tuberculosis treatment and radiology. Throughout her career, she made significant advancements in healthcare and served as a role model for women in medicine.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, born on 23 March 1953 in Bangalore, Karnataka state, is an Indian billionaire entrepreneur and a pioneer in the field of biotechnology. She is the executive chairperson and founder of Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Limited, a biotechnology company based in Bangalore, India.
Janaki Ammal, a renowned Indian botanist, made remarkable discoveries in sugarcane and the eggplant, as well as conducted important work on the cytogenetics of various plant species. Her research on the medicinal and economic value of rainforest plants in Kerala, India, showcases her keen interest in ethnobotany. Her significant contributions to botany continue to inspire future generations.
Shakuntala Devi was an Indian mental calculator and writer, known as the “Human Computer”. She achieved her world record for mental calculations in 1980 and was listed in the 1982 edition of The Guinness Book of World Records. Devi’s extraordinary talent, exhibited from a young age, allowed her to simplify numerical calculations, making mathematics more accessible and enjoyable for students. Her legacy as a mathematician and advocate for human rights continues to inspire generations.
Rani Mangammal, the queen regent of the Madurai Nayak kingdom, was known for her exceptional administrative skills and contributions to infrastructure development and public welfare. She took up the responsibility of ruling as regent after the tragic deaths of her husband and son, focusing on public works projects and displaying remarkable diplomatic and political acumen. Despite her accomplishments, she was captured and executed when her grandson came of age. Mangammal’s reign symbolizes the impact powerful women can have on society.
Known as Pramila, Esther Victoria Abraham was an Indian actress, model, and the first woman film producer in the Hindi film industry. She won the first Miss India pageant in 1947, becoming a symbol of Indian womanhood and empowerment. Despite facing personal challenges, Pramila continued to pursue her career and produced 16 films under her banner, Silver Productions, breaking barriers and challenging traditional gender roles in the Indian film industry. She passed away in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of female empowerment.
Rani Lakshmibai, also known as the Rani of Jhansi, was a fearless warrior and leader during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Despite facing adversity, she displayed remarkable courage and fought against British rule. Her unwavering spirit and refusal to accept injustice made her a national hero and an inspiration for the Indian independence movement.
Kittur Chennamma, an Indian Queen of Kittur, valiantly fought against British colonization. Born in 1778, she faced tragedy when her husband and son passed away. Chennamma’s decision to adopt an heir and resist British control led to a war with the East India Company. Although she initially emerged victorious, the British eventually annexed Kittur and took Chennamma prisoner. She died as a prisoner of war, but her courageous spirit and dedication to her people made her a revered figure in women’s history and the Indian independence movement.
Vijaya Raje Scindia, also known as the Rajmata of Gwalior, was a prominent Indian political figure. As the wife of the Maharaja of Gwalior, she held a high position in the royal family. In her later years, she became a respected politician and was elected multiple times to the Indian parliament. Her contributions to the Bharatiya Janata Party and her fight against injustice left a lasting impact on Indian politics.
Kalki Subramaniam, a transgender rights activist, artist, actress, writer, inspirational speaker, and entrepreneur from Tamil Nadu, has faced numerous challenges and struggles in her life. However, her resilience and determination have made her a powerful advocate for transgender rights in India. Through her activism, artistic contributions, and entrepreneurial ventures, Kalki has paved the way for greater acceptance and inclusion of transgender individuals in society.
Menaka Guruswamy is a renowned Indian lawyer and Senior Advocate at the Supreme Court of India. Born on November 27, 1974, she has made significant contributions to the field of law, playing a pivotal role in several landmark cases. Her expertise spans across various legal domains, including Constitutional Law, Corporate Law, White Collar Defense, and Arbitration.
Grace Banu is an Indian software engineer and transgender activist who has made significant contributions to both the LGBTQ+ community and the fight against caste discrimination. Born and raised in the Tuticorin district of Tamil Nadu, Banu belongs to the Dalit community, a historically marginalized group in India. From an early age, Banu faced discrimination and untouchability due to both her caste and gender identity.
K. Prithika Yashini, the first transgender woman to be a police officer in India, has made waves in breaking barriers and challenging societal norms. After a long and arduous legal battle, Yashini successfully challenged the Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board’s decision to reject her application and became a sub-inspector of police. Her determination and resilience have made her a true trailblazer and role model for the transgender community.
Smita Tandi, born around 1992, is an inspiring figure in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. As a dedicated police constable and compassionate humanitarian, she has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. Her selfless actions and tireless efforts have garnered recognition and admiration, making her a symbol of hope and resilience.
Lizymol Philipose Pamadykandathil, an Indian dental materials scientist, has made significant contributions to the field of dental materials science through her groundbreaking research. Her innovative work in developing bioactive polymers and polymer-based composite materials for dental restoration and bone cement for fixing implants has greatly improved dental procedures and patient outcomes. Her dedication and accomplishments have earned her prestigious awards and patents, solidifying her place as a trailblazing scientist in the scientific community.
Vyjayanti Vasanta Mogli is an Indian transgender activist, RTI activist, singer, and motivational speaker. Born and raised in Hyderabad, Vyjayanti had a challenging childhood marked by school abuse, conversion therapy, bullying, and assault. Despite facing these hardships, she emerged as a strong advocate for the rights and dignity of transgender individuals.
Akkai Padmashali, an Indian transgender activist, has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of transgender individuals. She overcame countless obstacles and fought for social inclusion while educating the public about transgender rights. Her activism garnered recognition, with honors such as the Rajyotsava Prashasti and an honorary doctorate, and she made history as the first transgender person to register her marriage in Karnataka. Her impact extends globally, with invitations to the White House and a Town Hall event during former US President Barack Obama’s visit to India.
Premlata Agrawal (born 1963) is an Indian mountaineer known for her remarkable achievements in the field of mountaineering. She has successfully scaled the Seven Summits, which are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Agrawal’s passion for mountaineering has not only broken boundaries but has also inspired countless individuals around the world.
Anshu Jamsenpa, the Indian mountaineer, made history by becoming the first woman to summit Mount Everest twice in a season. Her remarkable feat was achieved in record time, completing the double ascent within just 5 days. Born and raised in Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh, Anshu’s passion for mountaineering and unwavering determination propelled her to conquer new heights, making her an inspiring figure in women’s history. She has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award and was recommended for the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award.
Dora Metcalf, an India-born Irish entrepreneur, mathematician, and computing pioneer, made significant contributions to computing and played a crucial role in codebreaking efforts during World War II. Her career flourished as she sold comptometers throughout Ireland, but her true breakthrough came when she supplied decryption machines to codebreakers at Bletchley Park, greatly impacting the war’s outcome. Dora’s determination and pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of women in technology.
Santosh Yadav, the first woman in the world to climb Mount Everest twice and conquer the treacherous Kangshung Face, has solidified her place in mountaineering history. She displayed curiosity and a thirst for adventure from a young age, and her determination and skill led her to achieve extraordinary feats in mountaineering. Yadav’s passion for the environment and dedication to preserving the Himalayas have left a lasting impact, making her an inspiration to aspiring mountaineers, especially women.
Arunima Sinha, born on July 20, 1988, in Akbarpur, Ambedkar Nagar near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, is an extraordinary Indian mountaineer and sportswoman. She has achieved remarkable feats in the field of mountaineering, becoming the world’s first female amputee to scale the highest peaks on seven continents. Sinha’s inspiring journey is a testament to her unwavering determination, perseverance, and indomitable spirit.
Roma Agrawal MBE FICE HonFREng is an Indian-British-American chartered structural engineer based in London. She has worked on several major engineering projects, including the Shard. Agrawal is also an author and a diversity campaigner, championing women in engineering.
Clementine Chambon is a chemical engineer specializing in sustainable energy solutions. She is the Chief Technology Officer of Oorja Development Solutions, a social enterprise that provides clean energy access to off-grid communities in rural India. Chambon’s expertise in biomass gasification systems and her dedication to finding sustainable energy solutions have earned her numerous awards and recognition, including being named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 List for Social Entrepreneurs in 2016. She continues to make a positive impact through her research and leadership in the field of sustainable energy.
P.K. Thressia (1924-1981) was the first female chief engineer in India and a pioneering Civil Engineer. She overcame societal barriers to pursue a career in engineering, graduating in 1944. Throughout her career, Thressia made significant contributions to road construction projects and infrastructure development, revolutionizing road surface materials and overseeing the construction of numerous bridges. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire future generations of women in the field.
Amrit Kaur, born into the Ahluwalia family in 1887, played a major role in India’s independence movement and became the country’s first Health Minister. Known for her advocacy for women’s rights and her involvement in shaping the Constitution of India, Kaur dedicated her life to fighting for the rights and well-being of her fellow countrymen. Her legacy as an activist and politician continues to inspire future generations.
Reshma Pathan, the Sholay Girl, is an Indian actress and the first stuntwoman in the Indian film industry. She has fearlessly performed dangerous stunts in almost 400 films, becoming the trusted stunt double for iconic leading ladies of Bollywood. Reshma’s remarkable achievements have inspired aspiring stuntwomen and her name has become synonymous with bravery and breaking barriers.
Ruchi Sanghvi, the first female engineer hired by Facebook, has made significant contributions to the tech industry. Raised in Pune, India, Sanghvi pursued her education in electrical computer engineering and joined Facebook in 2005 as their first female engineer. She played a crucial role in developing the initial version of Facebook’s News Feed and later ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding Cove. Sanghvi’s achievements have paved the way for women in technology and continue to shape the future of the industry.
Anima Anandkumar, a prominent figure in computer science and artificial intelligence, is the Bren Professor of Computing at Caltech and the director of Machine Learning research at NVIDIA. She has made significant contributions to tensor-algebraic methods, deep learning, and non-convex problems. Anima’s curiosity and passion for knowledge were shaped by her family’s strong academic background. She is not only academically gifted but also an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer. Anima’s pioneering work in machine learning has earned her recognition and accolades in the field. She is dedicated to advancing knowledge and promoting diversity in technology.
Savitha Sastry is a renowned Indian dancer and choreographer known for her innovative approach to Bharatanatyam. With her theme-based productions and captivating storytelling, she has redefined the boundaries of this traditional art form. Sastry’s work has not only earned critical acclaim but also inspired a new generation of artists to explore new avenues in dance.
Medha Patkar is a well-known politician and activist in India. She has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities, including tribals, dalits, farmers, laborers, and women. Through her work with organizations like the Narmada Bachao Andolan and the National Alliance of People’s Movements, she has been at the forefront of the fight against displacement, inequality, and injustice. Her contributions to society have earned her recognition, including being named one of the “100 heroes of the 20th century” by Time magazine.
Jay Mala (1958-2023) was an Indian journalist, politician, advocate, and social activist. She was a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India, known for filing and winning over 600 cases. Notably, Jay Mala’s landmark case in 1985 brought about significant changes to tort law in India. Her unwavering commitment to justice and activism left a lasting impact on India’s legal and social landscapes.
Yogita Bhayana is a prominent anti-rape activist in India, known for her tireless efforts to support rape survivors and seek justice for their assailants. She is the head of People Against Rape in India (PARI), an organization dedicated to providing assistance to rape survivors and advocating for their rights. Bhayana has also contributed significantly to the welfare of the homeless population in Delhi, having founded and managed 200 homeless shelters in the city.
Sunita Lyn Williams, also known as Suni in the United States and Son?ka in Slovenia, is an American astronaut and United States Navy officer. She comes from a diverse heritage, with her paternal family hailing from Jhulasan, Gujarat, India, and her maternal family of Slovene descent. Williams holds several records in space exploration, including the most spacewalks by a woman and the most time spent on spacewalks for a woman. Through her accomplishments, Williams has inspired countless individuals and made a profound impact on society.
Archana Sardana is India’s first female BASE jumper and a pioneer in the world of extreme sports in India. She has achieved remarkable feats in skydiving and BASE jumping, showcasing her bravery and pride in her country. Sardana’s passion for adventure has inspired others to embrace their adventurous spirits and break barriers. She has been recognized for her contributions to the field of adventure sports and serves as an inspiration to women aspiring to pursue their passions.
Mithali Dorai Raj, born in 1982 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is considered one of the greatest female cricketers of all time. She captained the India women’s national cricket team from 2004 to 2022, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. With numerous records and accolades, Mithali Raj’s contributions to cricket will be remembered for generations to come.
Pusarla Venkata Sindhu, known as P. V. Sindhu, is a highly accomplished Indian badminton player. She has achieved numerous accolades and broken records throughout her career, becoming a national icon and inspiring young girls across the nation. Sindhu’s remarkable journey in badminton, along with her contributions to women’s sports, have earned her prestigious awards and honors, including the Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan.
Princess Sophia Alexandrovna Duleep Singh, born in 1876 in Belgravia, was a prominent suffragette in the UK. Raised in an aristocratic British household with a diverse heritage, she was inspired by her grandmother’s enslavement in Ethiopia, her godmother Queen Victoria, and her father’s exile from the Sikh Empire. Singh’s dedication to women’s rights, as well as her involvement in various suffrage groups, shaped her legacy as a key figure in promoting social change in early twentieth-century Britain.
Maharani Chimnabai II (1872 – 23 August 1958) was a queen and the second wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad of Baroda, Gujarat. She dedicated her life to empowering women, focusing on education, social reform, and women’s rights. She played a significant role in breaking down barriers and challenging social norms, leaving behind a lasting legacy of inspiration for future generations of women.
Rani Shri Amrit Kaur Sahiba was an influential figure in Indian history, dedicated to women’s rights and uplifting the marginalized. With a privileged upbringing, she excelled academically and explored her interests in sports and the arts. After marrying the Raja of Mandi, she embarked on a journey that led her to dedication in fighting for marginalized women. Unfortunately, her marriage faced challenges, and she made the courageous decision to leave India and seek refuge in Paris. Her activism led to her arrest during World War II, and she tragically passed away in London in 1948. Her unwavering dedication to women’s rights and fight against injustice continues to inspire generations.
Soni Sori, a former Adivasi school teacher turned political leader, has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and equality in Chhattisgarh, India. Despite facing personal hardships, including arrest and torture, Sori’s resilience and determination have made her a prominent figure in women’s history and an inspiration to countless individuals. She was honored with the prestigious Front Line Defenders award in 2018 for her unwavering commitment to defending human rights.
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, an Indian weightlifter, has made a significant impact in the world of sports with her incredible talent and determination. Born on August 8, 1994, in Nongpok Kakching, Manipur, she hails from a Meitei family, which is a warrior clan in the region.
Deepa Malik, born on September 30, 1970, is a remarkable Indian athlete who has defied all odds to achieve greatness. She embarked on her sporting career at the age of 30, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams. Deepa holds the distinction of being the first Indian woman to win a medal in the Paralympic Games and has become an inspiration to millions around the world.
Sumathi Rao (born 5 December 1956) is an Indian theoretical physicist and professor at Harish-Chandra Research Institute, specializing in condensed matter physics. She has contributed significantly to her field despite facing biases and challenges throughout her career, including undervaluation of her work and accusations of her husband’s involvement in her research. Rao has been actively involved in promoting women in science, particularly in physics, through her work with the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and her writings on inspiring young girls to pursue careers in STEM.
Rekha Mishra, an inspiring Indian police officer, has made significant contributions in reuniting lost children with their families. Hailing from a military family, she joined the Railway Protection Force in 2014 and successfully identified and supported hundreds of children in Mumbai. Her exceptional dedication and impact on society were recognized with the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar in 2018. Mishra donated her prize money to Childline, a specialized NGO dedicated to rescuing and caring for lost and troubled children. Her story serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Kiran Sethi, a remarkable police officer from Delhi, India, has dedicated her career to women’s safety and empowerment. With a passion for justice and gender equality, she rose through the ranks and became the Sub-Inspector of police. Sethi’s initiatives, such as the self-defense course ‘Prahar’, have trained thousands of students, including those with disabilities. She also organized the largest demonstration of self-defense by school students, earning recognition in the Limca Book of Records. Sethi’s bravery and heroism were demonstrated when she rescued a blind girl from kidnapping and assault. Her impact extends beyond her community, earning her various accolades in martial arts and representing India internationally. Her journey and accomplishments stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and women’s safety.
Kiran Bedi, born on 9 June 1949, is a former tennis player who became the first woman in India to join the officer ranks of the Indian Police Service (IPS). Throughout her career spanning 35 years, she made significant contributions to law enforcement and social activism in India. Bedi’s dedication, reforms, and commitment to public service have made her an inspiring figure in India’s history.
Kirthi Jayakumar is a peace educator, feminist foreign policy practitioner, and lawyer. She has been recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and has served as an advisor to the G7. Kirthi is the founder of The Gender Security Project and The Red Elephant Foundation, and she is dedicated to promoting gender equality and peace.
Angellica Aribam, an Indian political activist, has dedicated her work to gender, race, and the democratization of politics. She founded the Femme First Foundation to promote women’s political leadership in India. Aribam’s unwavering dedication to empowering women has left an indelible mark on women’s history in India.
Sunitha Krishnan (born 1972) is an Indian social activist and chief functionary and co-founder of Prajwala, a non-governmental organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and reintegrates sex-trafficked victims into society. She is a prominent figure in India’s fight against human trafficking and has dedicated her life to bringing justice and restoring dignity to the victims of this heinous crime.
Mah Laqa Bai (7 April 1768 – August 1824) was an influential 18th-century Urdu poet, tawaif, and philanthropist from Hyderabad. Her life offers valuable insights into the social and political landscape of the Deccan region during her time. Despite her many accomplishments, she is best known for her contributions to Urdu poetry, showcasing her mastery of the art form in her collection of Ghazals titled “Gulzar-e-Mahlaqa.” Mah Laqa Bai’s legacy as a powerful and empowered woman continues to inspire generations.
Deepika Kumari is an Indian professional archer who has made a significant impact in the world of archery. Despite facing financial challenges, she never let her humble beginnings hold her back from pursuing her passion. With hard work and determination, she has become one of the world’s top archers, inspiring aspiring athletes everywhere. Deepika’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades and recognition, solidifying her place as a revered athlete in India.
Jeannette Eleanor Wirz CBE, formerly known as Jeannette Altwegg, was a renowned British figure skater who achieved remarkable success throughout her career. She became the 1952 Olympic champion, the 1948 Olympic bronze medalist, the 1951 World champion, and a two-time European champion. Altwegg’s dedication and unwavering focus set her apart from her peers. Her crowning moment came at the 1952 Winter Olympics where she became the first British woman to win an individual gold medal, leaving an enduring legacy in the sport.
Irom Chanu Sharmila, known as the “Iron Lady of Manipur,” grew up in a troubled state plagued by insurgency and human rights abuses. After witnessing the “Malom Massacre,” she began a remarkable 16-year hunger strike, becoming the world’s longest hunger striker. Despite not achieving her goal, she brought immense attention to human rights abuses in Manipur and continues to inspire others with her courage and passion for justice. Likely still alive today.
Manasi Pradhan, an Indian women’s rights activist and author, founded the Honour for Women National Campaign, which aims to end violence against women in India. Despite facing numerous challenges and societal expectations, Pradhan persevered and became the first woman in her village to pass the high school examination. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to advocating for women’s rights and has received recognition both nationally and internationally for her remarkable contributions. Pradhan’s activism and determination continue to inspire and empower women.
Mallika Sarabhai, an activist and Indian classical dancer, is a leading figure in the performing arts world. Her performances have captivated audiences worldwide, using dance as a powerful medium for social change. Mallika’s contributions to dance and theater have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Golden Star Award for Best Dance Soloist in Paris. She is also a dedicated social activist, transforming the Darpana Academy of Performing Arts into an epicenter of creativity and social awareness. Mallika’s impact extends beyond the stage, inspiring a new generation of artists and activists.
Hema Malini, born on October 16, 1948, is a renowned Indian actress, director, producer, and politician. Known for her work in Hindi films, she is considered one of the most popular and successful leading actresses in mainstream Hindi cinema. Throughout her career, she has delivered memorable performances and has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award and the Padma Shri. Malini’s journey in the film industry and her achievements have made her an icon in Indian cinema.
Baisali Mohanty, an international diplomat and United Nations official, is known for her contributions to foreign policy and strategic affairs. She is also an Indian classical dancer and the founder of the Oxford Odissi Centre, promoting and training dancers in the Odissi dance form. Mohanty’s achievements have earned her critical acclaim and appreciation.
Methil Devika, born in 1976, is an Indian classical dancer and research supervisor. Known for her contributions to Mohiniyattam, a traditional dance form of Kerala, Devika has made significant strides in the field of performing arts. Additionally, she is currently engaged in a Post Doctoral Fellowship at ISRO’s Indian Institute of Space Sciences and Technologies, where she is involved in an arts-integrated-advance-science project of her own ideation.
Rukmini Devi Arundale, born into a Brahmin family in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, on February 29, 1904, revived and popularized the Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam and made significant contributions to Indian arts, culture, and society. She founded the Kalakshetra Foundation, a renowned institution worldwide, and worked tirelessly to remove the stigma associated with Bharatanatyam, making it one of the most revered classical dance forms of India. Her vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on Indian classical dance for generations to come.
Zohra Sehgal, an Indian actress, dancer, and choreographer, made a significant impact on the Indian film industry. Despite losing vision in her left eye, she pursued her passion for acting and became one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. Sehgal’s talent and versatility allowed her to portray diverse characters, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. She also made notable contributions to Indian theatre and received numerous prestigious awards for her exceptional talent and contributions to Indian art and culture.
Vyjayanthimala, born in 1936 in Chennai, India, is celebrated as one of Indian cinema’s finest actresses and dancers. With a career that spanned several decades, she received numerous accolades, including two BFJA Awards and five Filmfare Awards. Her contributions to Indian cinema, along with her refusal to accept awards that didn’t truly recognize her talent, highlight her powerful character and commitment to her art.
Jhulan Goswami, one of India’s greatest cricketers, was renowned for her exceptional right-arm medium-fast bowling and proficient right-handed batting. Born in 1982 in Chakdaha, West Bengal, her passion for cricket was ignited at the age of 15. From humble beginnings, she went on to become the highest wicket-taker in Women’s One Day International cricket, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Her achievements continue to inspire future cricketers and she remains an icon of the game.
Malavath Purna, born on June 10, 2000, became the youngest Indian and youngest female to successfully conquer Mount Everest at the age of 13 years and 11 months. Through her determination and resilience, she shattered barriers and became an inspiration for young girls across India. Her remarkable achievements continue to inspire generations to come.
Shivangi Pathak, born in Hisar, Haryana in 2002, is an Indian mountaineer who achieved a remarkable feat at a young age. She became the youngest person from India to climb Mount Everest in May 2018. Her passion for adventure and determination to overcome challenges led her to conquer Mount Everest, Mount Elbrus, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Pathak’s achievements have inspired many and earned her recognition, including the Bal Shakti Puraskar in 2019. She is a symbol of empowerment and resilience, breaking barriers and proving that age and gender should never limit one’s ambitions.
Sangeeta Sindhi Bahl, born in Jammu in 1965, made history as the oldest Indian woman to conquer Mount Everest in 2018. Along her journey, she also scaled other impressive peaks, including Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Vinson, and Aconcagua. Her achievements in mountaineering have shattered barriers and inspired future generations of women.
Tashi and Nungshi Malik, born in 1991, are renowned mountaineers who have achieved remarkable feats. They are the first twins to reach the summit of the Seven Summits, conquer the North and South Poles, and complete the Adventurers Grand Slam and Three Poles Challenge. Their achievements have inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams and push their limits.
Margaret Alice Murray (1863-1963) was an Anglo-Indian Egyptologist, archaeologist, anthropologist, historian, and folklorist who left an indelible mark on her field through groundbreaking contributions. Her achievements include being the first woman appointed as a lecturer in archaeology in the United Kingdom and her significant discoveries in Egyptology. Murray’s passion for understanding ancient civilizations and advancing the status of women in academia made her a trailblazer and a pioneer in her field.
Karnam Malleswari, born on June 1, 1975, is a retired Indian weightlifter who made history as the first Indian woman to win a medal at the Olympics. Her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport have made her an inspiration for future generations.
Begum Hazrat Mahal, also known as the Begum of Awadh, was a key figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Born in 1820 in Faizabad, she rose from being sold into the profession of a tawaif to becoming the regent of Awadh. She displayed immense courage and leadership, rallying support and inspiring resistance against the British East India Company. Begum Hazrat Mahal’s legacy as a symbol of defiance and women’s rights continues to inspire generations.
Jhalkaribai, a remarkable woman soldier, played a pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Her uncanny resemblance to Queen Rani Lakshmibai led to her induction into the women’s army, where she quickly rose through the ranks and commanded her own troops. Jhalkaribai’s courage and quick thinking during the rebellion saved countless lives and bought crucial time for the rebels. Sadly, she was martyred in 1858, but her legacy lives on and continues to inspire generations.
Sultana Chand Bibi, born in 1550 CE, was an Indian ruler and warrior who left an indelible mark on history. She was known for her strong leadership and military prowess during a time when women were seldom seen in positions of power.
Mai Bhago, also known as Mata Bhag Kaur, was a remarkable Sikh woman who played a pivotal role in Sikh history as a warrior and leader. Born in the village of Chabal Kalan in present-day Tarn Taran district of Punjab, Mai Bhago grew up in a devout Sikh family, deeply immersed in the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh. From a lineage of warriors, Mai Bhago inherited bravery and a strong sense of duty towards her faith.
Onake Obavva, a valiant warrior from Karnataka, India, lived during the 18th century. Her heroic acts and unwavering courage have made her a celebrated figure in the state of Karnataka, alongside other notable women warriors and patriots such as Abbakka Rani, Keladi Chennamma, and Kittur Chennamma. Belonging to the Holayas (Chalavadi) community, Obavva’s extraordinary tale is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women.
Rani Abbakka Chowta, the first Tuluva Queen of Ullal, fought against the Portuguese in the 16th century. She repulsed their attacks for over four decades, earning her the title of “The fearless queen”. Abbakka is regarded as one of the earliest Indian women to fight colonialism and is celebrated as a warrior and patriot. Despite being captured and imprisoned by the Portuguese, she remained an inspirational figure and left a lasting impact on the history of Tulu Nadu.
Belawadi Mallamma, queen of the Belawadi kingdom in the 16th century, made history by being the first queen to build and train a women’s army. Raised in a royal family, Mallamma received an excellent education and set a unique challenge for suitors in her swayamvara. After her husband’s death in a battle with Shivaji, Mallamma continued to lead the kingdom. Her story of bravery and strength continues to inspire women today.
Mula Gabharu, also known as Nang Mula, was a remarkable woman who played a significant role in the history of Assam. Born as the daughter of Ahom king Supimphaa, Mula Gabharu grew up in a royal household, surrounded by power and privilege. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she married Borgohain Phrasengmung, the brave warrior and minister of the Ahom kingdom.
Shanti Tigga, the first female jawan in the Indian Army, defied societal expectations and shattered stereotypes by joining the army at the age of 35. Despite facing challenges and adversity, Tigga’s exceptional fitness and skills earned her the title of Best Trainee in the Recruitment Training Camp. Her tragic death in 2013 cut short a promising career that paved the way for women to serve in combat roles in the Indian Army.
Tulasi Munda, also known as “Tulasi Apa,” dedicated her life to spreading literacy among the impoverished adivasi peoples of Odisha. Born in 1947 in Kainshi village, she faced challenges and hardships, but her encounters with social reformers and her own determination led her to establish schools and educate more than 20,000 children. Her impactful work as a social activist continues to inspire generations, particularly in the field of women’s education and empowerment.
Rani Gaidinliu, born in 1915, was a Naga spiritual and political leader who fought against British rule in India. Her involvement in the Heraka movement and subsequent imprisonment showcased her determination and resilience. Recognized as “Rani” for her unwavering spirit, Gaidinliu continued her fight for her people and their cultural heritage even after her release. She received the prestigious Padma Bhushan award for her contributions and remains an inspiration to many.
Hetal Dave, India’s first and only professional female sumo wrestler, has overcome numerous challenges to achieve success in a traditionally male-dominated sport. She has represented India in international championships, finished among the top eight globally, and has been recognized as one of the world’s 150 fearless women. Hetal’s remarkable journey has inspired others to challenge stereotypes and pursue their dreams.
May Assheton Harbord, a pioneering woman in aviation, made significant contributions to the field of ballooning. She became a well-known adventurer, crossing the English Channel and earning recognition for her daring trips. She also played a vital role in advancing aviation for women in the UK, becoming the first woman to obtain an Aeronaut’s Certificate in 1912. May Assheton Harbord’s legacy as a courageous and determined balloonist continues to inspire women in aviation.