Dr. Kamala Sohonie
Remembering Dr. Kamala Sohonie on Her 112th Birthday: A Visionary in Biochemistry
New Delhi(India) :Google Doodle Pays Tribute to Dr. Kamala Sohonie- Sunday, June 18 marks the 112th birth anniversary of Dr. Kamala Sohonie, a trailblazing biochemist and the first Indian woman to receive a PhD degree in a scientific discipline. She is renowned for her groundbreaking discovery of the enzyme ‘Cytochrome C’. Dr. Sohonie’s remarkable achievements have paved the way for future generations of Indian women to shatter gender barriers and pursue their dreams in fields traditionally dominated by men. In honor of her contributions, Google has dedicated a special Google Doodle on this significant day, celebrating her legacy and recognizing her pioneering work in the field of biochemistry.
Dr. Kamala Sohonie’s journey to achieving her PhD was marked by numerous challenges and battles against gender bias in the scientific community of India. During a time when women were significantly underrepresented in scientific disciplines, she fearlessly pursued her dreams and became an inspiration for others.
According to “family historical records” cited by Google, Dr. Sohonie was born on June 18, 1912, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Her parents, who were respected chemists, greatly influenced her career path. Following in the footsteps of her father and uncle, she enrolled in Bombay University and studied chemistry and physics. In 1933, she graduated as the top student in her class, achieving a remarkable feat. She then became the first woman to be admitted to the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Google Doodle Pays Tribute to Dr. Kamala Sohonie
However, her entry into the IISc was not without obstacles. It is reported that stringent conditions were imposed on her during her first year, presumably due to doubts about the abilities of women in science held by the institute’s director at the time, CV Raman. In fact, Dr. Sohonie had previously been denied admission to pursue a Master’s degree by Raman. In response to this rejection, she staged a protest against the Nobel laureate, standing up for her rights and challenging the prevailing gender bias in the scientific community.
Through her determination and resilience, Dr. Kamala Sohonie overcame these barriers and went on to make groundbreaking contributions in her field, including the discovery of the enzyme ‘Cytochrome C’. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking stereotypes and empowering women to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations or prejudices.
Google Doodle Pays Tribute to Dr. Kamala Sohonie
Not only did Dr. Kamala Sohonie succeed in obtaining permission to pursue her research at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), but her exceptional abilities left a lasting impression on the institute’s director. In fact, it is reported that her remarkable achievements and dedication had such an impact that the IISc began to actively accept more women into their program.
Initially facing doubts and skepticism about the capabilities of women in science, Dr. Sohonie’s perseverance and accomplishments shattered those preconceived notions. Her undeniable talent and passion not only paved the way for her own success but also opened doors for other aspiring women in the field. The recognition and admiration she garnered from the IISc director served as a turning point, prompting the institute to embrace a more inclusive approach and encourage the enrollment of talented women scientists.
Dr. Sohonie’s journey stands as a testament to her resilience and the transformative power of breaking gender barriers. By surpassing expectations and leaving an indelible mark on her institution, she played a vital role in expanding opportunities for future generations of women in scientific disciplines.
Dr. Kamala Sohonie: A Trailblazing Biochemist and Pioneer of Neera
In 1936, Dr. Kamala Sohonie completed her extensive study on various proteins found in legumes, determining their nutritional benefits for children. Subsequently, she published her thesis and obtained her Master’s degree, solidifying her expertise in the field.
The following year, Dr. Sohonie secured a research scholarship at Cambridge University, a prestigious opportunity that further enhanced her scientific pursuits and knowledge.
During her academic and research journey, Dr. Sohonie made a groundbreaking discovery: she identified the enzyme Cytochrome C. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the electron transport chain, a vital process for energy synthesis in both plant and animal cells. Google Doodle Pays Tribute to Dr. Kamala Sohonie
Upon her return to India, Dr. Sohonie continued her investigations into specific food sources. She played a significant role in developing an accessible dietary supplement derived from palm extract, known as Neera. This nutritious drink has been proven to be a valuable source of Vitamin C and has shown positive effects on the health of pregnant women and malnourished children.
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Dr. Sohonie’s contributions to the development of Neera were recognized with the prestigious Rashtrapati Award. Additionally, she achieved another notable milestone by becoming the first woman director at the Royal Institute of Science in Bombay, showcasing her exceptional leadership abilities and scientific acumen.
Through her remarkable research, discoveries, and efforts to improve nutrition and health, Dr. Kamala Sohonie left an enduring legacy and further solidified her position as a trailblazing figure in the field of biochemistry.
