Top 13 India's Most Inspiring Women

Before we start, happy women's day to all the lovely women reading this!

As we all know, international women's day is observed on the 8th of March every year with different themes and issues to focus on. This year's (2021) women's day special is all about #ChoosetoChallenge

The history of women's day is filled with events and stories where women raised their voices to fight for what is right. In the early to mid 20th century, when they were getting demeaned for their stereotypical policies, which made women stay at home and further made them question their ignorant governments. This act led to a widespread protest of various women groups against their negligence.

Today we see many women doing the same. With the right support and empowerment, women are capable of achieving anything in this world. To celebrate the determination and courage of the women in Indian history, here we are with a list of India's most inspiring women on this women's day 2021, who reached the heights of victory in taking up a revolutionary stride this century.

1. Indra Nooyi
2. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw
3. Seema Rao
4. Kiran Bedi
5. Smita Sabharwal
6. Smriti Mandhana
7. Mary Kom
8. Arunima Sinha
9. Saalumarada Thimmakka
10. Lakshmi Agarwal

11. Shakuntala Devi

12. Shovana Narayan:

13. Chanda Kochhar

1. Indra Nooyi:

The first to make the list of Indian female role models is Indra Nooyi. This Indian-American Businesswoman has set an astonishing example from being a product manager at Johnson & Johnson to being a CEO at Pepsico, which is among the top 10 FMCG companies in the world and now serving as one of the Board of Directors at Amazon. Her main objective is to mentor and guide women across the globe to get them to powerful positions. She is the best example of this saying, "A woman for another woman." Thus being one of India's most inspiring women for everyone who wants to be an entrepreneur.

2. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw:

A successful technophile recognized on the global level, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, India's richest self-made woman is the founder of India's largest biopharmaceutical firm Biocon. She is also the chairperson of IIM Bengaluru. Biocon at her helm has reached greater heights every day, and she continues to inspire the woman entrepreneurs in India today.

3. Seema Rao:

Seema Rao is India's first Woman Commando Trainer, and for many of her contributions in the field of defence, she is also known as India's Wonder Women. She belongs to a freedom fighter's family, which explains her zeal towards serving the Nation. She was awarded the highest civilian award for the women "Nari Shakti Puraskar" for her dedicated service in the betterment of the defence cadets. She definitely fits the bill to be one of the best Indian female role models.

4. Kiran Bedi

She is the first woman IPS officer of India and also a social activist who takes a stand for what is right. During her tenure of serving as an IPS officer, she went on to serve a variety of roles, including narcotics officer, antiterrorist specialist, and administrator. She emphasizes and supports women to be in a position and mindset of facing challenges and doing what is right for them. A legend among the women in Indian history, and we should surely take notes from her life story.

5. Smita Sabharwal:

She is the first youngest aspirant to clear the UPSC exam in Telangana, also the first lady IAS officer to be appointed at the chief minister's office and popularly called as the 'People's officer.' She has been rewarded and recognized for her work throughout her career. With her speeches and public talks, she tries to motivate women for active participation in productive work and practical issues of society. Yet another one of India's most inspiring women.

6. Smriti Mandhana:

Born into a cricket lover's family, this left-handed opener of the Indian team, Smriti Shriniwas Mandhana, originating from Mumbai, was also named as International Women Cricketer of the year 2019. She has excelled in reaching 2000 runs in her 51 ODIs, which broke the records of well-known male cricketers. She is also an Arjuna awardee. She has not only brought glory to the country but also paved a way towards women empowerment by becoming an example and one of the most looked up Indian female role models to many aspirants.

7. Mary Kom:

Who doesn't know about this five-time world boxing champion? Mary Kom's rise to the top of women's world boxing is anything but an easy one. Mary Kom, the lady with fire in her soul and support of her family, has magnificently been known as magnificent Mary. She holds most of the World Championship medals and would always be counted among India's most inspiring women. Mary Kom is also a member of Rajya Sabha, nominated by the president of India as well as an active supporter of wildlife protection.

8. Arunima Sinha:

She is an Indian Mountain climber and a sportsperson who overcome the battles of her body's disability with her passion for reaching the heights of success. She is the world's first female amputee to climb Mount Everest in 2013 and has again set another record by climbing Mount Vinson, the highest peak of Antarctica. She never let her disabilities define her. She made ends meet for which the Nation sees her with respect. Thus becoming a leading figure among India's most inspiring women.

9. Saalumarada Thimmakka:

Padmashri Awardee Shri Saalumarada Thimmakka is truly a gem of a person and an idol of every environmentalist today due to her love for the environment. She is an Indian environmentalist who is well-known for her efforts to plant 284 banyan trees on a stretch of 4 km along the highway. These selfless works have fetched her recognition at a global level. She has taught us how one's hard work and patience can make a huge difference in society.

10. Lakshmi Agarwal:

An acid attack survivor who is inspiring millions of women in India to fight for their dreams and one of the major Indian female role models. Laxmi Agarwal is also the director of an NGO named "Chhanv Foundation," which helps the victims of the acid attacks. She motivates women by saying that more than just the face, your dreams and desires will help you achieve your goals in life.

There is no limit to what women can achieve in this world from a homemaker to being the architect, which results in the change in society. Women are emerging and breaking stereotypes to be at par with men in most of the fields today. With so many examples of women in Indian history, why should society still enforce the patriarchal limitations upon them? Its time to break free!

11. Sudha Murthy:

Author, philanthropist, and humanitarian, Sudha Murthy's unwavering dedication to education, rural development, and social welfare embodies the spirit of compassion and service. As the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, her tireless efforts have transformed countless lives, inspiring individuals to harness their talents for the betterment of society and creating a legacy of kindness and generosity that resonates globally.

12. Arundhati Roy:

Arundhati Roy, the acclaimed author and activist who is committed to social justice and environmental sustainability, has an international impact. Through her words, she bravely pursues empathy and the truth, empowering others to confront injustice and sparking a movement for a more just and compassionate society.

13. Kalpana Chawla:

Hailing from Karnal, Haryana, Kalpana Chawla made history as the first woman of Indian origin in space. Her experience as a NASA astronaut acts as a symbol of tenacity and determination, encouraging future generations to pursue their dreams in the face of hardship, leaving a lasting impression on the universe, and serving as a constant reminder that the sky is only the beginning of our possibilities.

14. PV Sindhu:

PV Sindhu, the Olympic badminton champion, has made history as one of India's most celebrated athletes. She has reached the highest level of success in the badminton world thanks to her tenacity, determination, and relentless concentration on perfection. Her story has inspired millions of young athletes to follow their goals with patience, discipline, and dedication.

15. Lata Mangeshkar:

Lata Mangeshkar, the legendary playback singer, has captivated audiences for decades with her melodious voice and timeless contributions to Indian music. Her unparalleled talent, dedication, and humility have made her an icon of inspiration, encouraging aspiring musicians to pursue their passion with sincerity, humility, and unwavering dedication.

16. Shakuntala Devi:

Shakuntala Devi, often referred to as the "Human Computer," was a mathematical genius who defied stereotypes. She earned the title because of her mind-blowing mental math abilities, which allowed her to complete difficult calculations in seconds, impressing both audiences and experts. Shakuntala Devi's path defies expectations. Despite her lack of formal schooling, she not only succeeded in STEM subjects but also challenged the concept that such genius was primarily reserved for men. Her story continues to inspire generations to realize their intellectual potential and break down barriers, demonstrating that genius can arise from anyone.

17. Shovana Narayan:

Shovana Narayan is more than just an author; she is a literary force. Her work, as one of India's most recognized writers, goes beyond simple amusement. Narayan's compelling work confronts social concerns head-on, starting conversations and promoting change. She creates narratives that not only captivate the reader but also encourage self-discovery. Narayan's characters' travels challenge society's standards and inspire readers to confront their own truths. Her words strike a deep chord, leaving an impression that lasts far beyond the last page.

18. Chanda Kochhar:

Chanda Kochhar's journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring female leaders. As former CEO of ICICI Bank, she shattered boundaries in the traditionally male-dominated sector of corporate finance. Her ascend to the top leadership position was not only a tremendous accomplishment, but it also cleared the way for future generations of women to pursue jobs at the highest levels of the corporate world. She demonstrated that women can succeed in top positions and contribute significantly to the financial sector.

Inspiring, right? Just like these, there are many women who have succeeded in the field of architecture. Check out our blog on women architects of india to know more about it.

Let us know your thoughts on our write-up on India's most inspiring women and how you would encourage the women's day celebration; we would love to hear from you!

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