Tribute to the Heroes for Inspiring Generations

A great fight to gain freedom from patriarchy, follow her own passion and live the life she wants, which she finally succeeded by gaining a medical degree and serving the society as a professional doctor. Anandibai Joshi, India’s first women doctor, there is a crater in Venus named after her- a reminder to all young Indian doctor’s who don’t know the heroes of past who have fought for the freedom we are enjoying today. Only two percent of women were literate in British India and almost till late 19 th century educated women are considered as a shame to the family. In 1947, the women literacy rate was just six percent.

Anandibai Joshi, whose refusal to part with traditions even while asserting herself with dignity; Kadambini Ganguly who had a bit of support from her husband and society and was the first to have a career as a doctor; Rukhmabai Raut, a rebel and ‘rule breaker’ ; Haimabati Sen who fought every inch of her way from being a child widow, through remarriage to practise medicine; Muthulakshmi Reddy, who, not content with being a doctor, ventured into politics, became a social reformer and institution builder and Mary Poonen Lukose, who worked to build up Kerala’s public healthcare system are all some of the heroes of our past that are not much taught about and not remembered by us.

Women education is an essential need to change their status in the society. Educated women can play a very important role in the society for socio-economic development. Education eliminates inequalities and disparities as the means of recovering their status within and out of their families. It is the key factor for women empowerment, prosperity, development and welfare.

Our endeavour at Women Entrepreneur Magazine has always been to highlight remarkable women leaders across geographies and industries. In keeping with our motto, the current issue of the Women Entrepreneur features a list of ‘Top 10 Women Obstetrics & Gynaecologists - 2023'. Compiled by a panel of industry veterans, CEOs, CXOs and our editorial team, the list features prolific women who have not only crafted illustrious and innovative businesses, but have proven their mettle as leaders across the diverse roles playing a key role in serving the society as doctors.