The Lady Scientist

From first look one would think that the stream of her life also must have been quiet, easy, uneventful. It was not so, she had many hurdles to cross. Many rapids to pass, before she could be known as a ‘Woman in Science’.

After passing her B.Sc from Bombay University  she thought that doing research work at that famous institute was a matter of course. She then applied for admission there and received a prompt refusal. The reason cited being that she was a woman. The illustrious director of the institute, Sir C.V. Raman, Nobel Laureate, did not think a woman scientist, to be research material!

Kamala refused to accept this refusal based on gender bias and  she decided to do Satyagraha in Raman’s office, till she was admitted. Prof. Raman granted her admission with some condition that for one full year she would be on probation; meaning that she could work but that work would not be recognized until the director was satisfied about its quality and also that her presence did not distract his male researchers from their work. Kamala accepted these terms, but one can only imagine her indignation at them. The first hurdle in her pursuit of science was crossed (1933). At the Institute of Science, Bangalore, she worked very hard under her teacher, Shri Sreenivasayya. He was very strict, demanding and at the same time eager to impart knowledge to deserving students. After observing her for a year, Raman was satisfied about her sincerity and discipline. She was allowed to do regular research in Bio-chemistry. He was impressed enough to admit lady students to the institute from then on. This was another victory for Kamala, and through her for other aspiring Indian women scientists.