Reader’s Corner | Celebrating the women who shaped modern India

I am privileged to have witnessed an India that has transformed beyond imagination, from the struggles of independence to the digital era of today. Among all the changes we have lived through, the one that moves me the most is the rise of Indian women. Each time a woman stands up, she stands for all women.

When I think of inspiring women of modern India, several names come to mind, each one a symbol of courage, conviction, and excellence.

I still remember reading about Kiran Bedi in the newspapers in the 1970s. As India’s first woman to join the Indian Police Service, she filled me with pride. In a profession dominated by men, she remained fearless, fair, and fiercely dedicated. Her reform work in Tihar Jail, where she transformed a space of punishment into one of rehabilitation, stands as a lasting reminder of what discipline and commitment can achieve.

Sudha Murty exemplifies goodness and simplicity. Her stories carry the fragrance of kindness and humility that seems to be fading in our fast-paced times. Through the Infosys Foundation, she has helped build schools, hospitals, and community facilities that nurture hope in countless villages. Despite her immense success and wealth, she remains grounded and deeply connected to people.
Indra Nooyi’s journey also fills me with admiration. From a modest upbringing in Chennai to leading PepsiCo as its CEO, she made the world recognise the talent and determination of Indian women. Her reflections on balancing work and family echo the values that shape so many Indian households.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is another name that stands tall. At a time when few women were seen as leaders in science or business, she defied every stereotype. Building Biocon from a small startup into a global company, she demonstrated what vision and perseverance can create. Her commitment to affordable healthcare has earned her both success and the gratitude of millions.
Among all the remarkable women I have known, my thoughts often return to Mother Teresa, whom I had the privilege of meeting on several occasions. Frail in body but immense in spirit, she dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor. Meeting her remains one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

There are countless others who have lit India’s path to glory. Kalpana Chawla, who reached for the stars and became an eternal symbol of inspiration. Mary Kom, who fought her way to the top in the boxing ring. Lata Mangeshkar, whose timeless voice carries the emotions of an entire nation. And M S Subbulakshmi, whose devotional renditions of Bhaja Govindam and Venkatesa Suprabhatam felt as though divinity itself had taken the form of sound.

The daughters of India have travelled a long distance, from the confines of rigid customs and traditions to the heights of global achievement. They are scientists, leaders, teachers, artists, and above all, compassionate human beings.

They remind us that dreams nurtured with courage and determination can change the course of history. May their journeys continue to inspire generations to come.

(The writer is a philanthropist and former president of Rotary International.)