Dr. Kamala Sohonie was born on 18 June 1911 in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, to parents who were esteemed chemists. Inspired by her father’s and uncle’s footsteps, she embarked on a path to study chemistry and physics at Bombay University. Her exceptional academic performance led her to graduate at the top of her class in 1933, setting the stage for her groundbreaking scientific career.
Overcoming Gender Bias at the Indian Institute of Science
Despite her outstanding academic achievements, Dr. Sohonie faced an uphill battle when she became the first woman to be admitted to the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Initially, the director of IISc imposed stringent conditions on her, reflecting the prevalent skepticism about women’s abilities in scientific fields. However, determined to prove herself, Dr. Sohonie displayed remarkable competence, impressing the director and paving the way for more women to enter the program.
Pioneering Research on the Nutritional Benefits of Legumes
In the following years, Dr. Sohonie dedicated her studies to researching the various proteins present in legumes. Her meticulous work led her to an important conclusion: legumes played a vital role in boosting nutrition, particularly in children. In 1936, she published her thesis on this subject, which earned her a master’s degree, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled researcher.
Discovery of Cytochrome C and Ph.D. Achievements at Cambridge University
In 1937, Dr. Sohonie’s exceptional talents earned her a research scholarship at Cambridge University. It was during her time there that she made a groundbreaking discovery. Dr. Sohonie made a significant breakthrough by identifying Cytochrome C, a vital enzyme essential for energy generation, and discovering its presence in every plant cell. Within a remarkable 14-month period, she completed her thesis on this groundbreaking finding, becoming the first Indian woman to achieve a Ph.D. in a scientific field.
Contributions to Public Health and the Development of Neera
Upon her return to India, Dr. Sohonie continued her scientific pursuits with a focus on improving public health. She conducted extensive research on the benefits of certain foods and contributed to the development of an affordable dietary supplement made from palm nectar. Neera, the nutritious drink, emerged as an exceptional source of Vitamin C, benefiting the health of malnourished children and pregnant women with its positive impact.
Recognitions and Legacy
Dr. Kamala Sohonie’s outstanding contributions did not go unnoticed. She was honored with the prestigious Rashtrapati Award for her remarkable work on Neera. Furthermore, she shattered another barrier by becoming the inaugural female director of the Royal Institute of Science in Bombay.
Dr. Sohonie’s legacy is multifaceted and far-reaching. Her pioneering achievements in biochemistry have inspired countless women in India and beyond to pursue careers in science, challenging gender biases that persist in scientific disciplines. Today’s Google Doodle celebrates Dr. Kamala Sohonie’s indomitable spirit, scientific brilliance, and her role as a trailblazer for women in science, reminding us of the transformative power of determination and breaking barriers.
