International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, honours women’s accomplishments, their rights, equality, empowerment, and related themes. It also serves as a call to action for advancing equality for all. Over the past 150 years, the role of women has undergone significant transformations worldwide. Pioneers such as Susan B. Anthony and Rosa Parks, who fought for equality, have paved the way for women today to pursue diverse paths. While efforts continue for universal equal rights, here are some Indian women who broke the glass ceiling:
1. Savitribai Phule | Savitribai Phule, known as the mother of Indian Feminism, was a pioneer in educating girls and marginalised communities. She became India’s first female teacher, founded a shelter for destitute women and played a vital role in advocating for equality across all classes. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
2. Justice M. Fathima Beevi | Fathima Beevi made history in 1989 when she became the first woman to be appointed as a judge to the Supreme Court of India. She has been honoured with prestigious awards such as the Bharat Jyoti Award and the Honorary D. Litt Mahila Award in 1990. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
3. Kalpana Chawla | Kalpana Chawla achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first woman of Indian origin to venture into space. In 1997, she served as a mission specialist and operated the robotic arm during her first space mission. (Image: Reuters)
4. Dr Rakhmabai | Dr Rakhmabai Bhikaji, a trailblazer in medicine and women’s rights in the 19th century played a key role in raising the age of consent for women in 1891. She studied at the London School of Medicine for Women in 1889 and later became India’s first practising female doctor upon her return in 1894. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
5. Begum Hazrat Mahal | Begum Hazrat Mahal was among the earliest female freedom fighters of India during the country's First War of Independence in 1857. She never surrendered to the British and continued to resist even during her exile, making her a significant figure in history. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
6. Prem Mathur | With the issuance of her commercial pilot licence, Captain Prem Mathur of Deccan Airways became the first female pilot in Indian history. She achieved further recognition by winning the national air race in 1949. (Image: YouTube screengrab)
7. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw | Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, the chairman and managing director of Biocon Limited, holds the distinction of being the first Indian businesswoman to achieve a net worth of $1 billion. She is widely regarded as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country.
8. Kiran Bedi | Joining the Indian Police Services in 1972, she made history as India’s first female police officer. After serving for 35 years, she took voluntary retirement in 2007. Additionally, she became the first Indian woman to serve as the United Nations Civil Police adviser. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
9. Reita Faria Powel | Reita Faria made history in 1966 by winning the Miss World title, becoming the first Indian and Asian woman to do so. She was also the first Miss World winner who was a qualified doctor. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
10. Indira Gandhi | Indira Gandhi made history as the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of India, holding office from 1966 to 1977. She was also the first woman to receive the Bharat Ratna award. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)