Kamala Sohonie Age, Wiki and Bio

Kamala Sohonie

Quick Info

ProfessionBiochemist
NationalityIndian
Date of Birth18/06/1911
Age113 years
BirthplaceIndore, Indore State, British India

Bio/Wiki

Birth nameBhagvat
Famous forBeing the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in a science field.

Physical Stats & More

Eye ColorBlack
Hair ColorBlack

Educational Qualification(s)

College/University
  • Bombay University (1933)
  • Indian Institute of Science
  • Newnham College, University of Cambridge
Educational Qualification
  • B.Sc. degree in Chemistry and Physics (1933)
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry

Personal Life

Marital Status (at the time of death)Married
Marriage Date1947

Family

HusbandM.V. Sohonie (Actuary)
Children
Son2
Parents
FatherNarayanarao Bhagvat (Chemist)

Career

AwardsRashtrapati Award for her research in 'Neera'

Some Lesser Known Facts

Kamala Sohonie, an Indian biochemist, was the first Indian woman to earn a Ph.D. in science.
Initially rejected by the Indian Institute of Science, she was later admitted after protesting peacefully outside Prof. C V Raman’s office.
Her uncle and father were both chemists at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru.
Studying in the UK, she made a significant discovery about the enzyme 'Cytochrome C' at Cambridge University.
She held prominent positions, focusing on nutrition research and aiding underprivileged communities in India.
Recommended by President Rajendra Prasad, Kamala investigated 'Neera,' a nutrient-rich sap from toddy palms.
Apart from her scientific endeavors, she was involved in consumer rights advocacy in India.
Kamala aimed to improve the health of underprivileged communities in India through her research.
She remained connected to India's national ethos, supporting Gandhi and the freedom movement.
An accomplished science communicator, she authored books and was known for her passion for science.
During her studies, she received prestigious scholarships and collaborated with esteemed scientists.
Her Ph.D. thesis was completed in a remarkably short time of 14 months.
Many of her research supporters became respected scientists themselves.
Facing gender prejudices, Kamala overcame career obstacles and eventually became the Institute's Director.
Dr. Satyavati organized a special event to honor Kamala's achievements in New Delhi.