- Kadambini Ganguly (1861–1923) was one of the first two women in India to graduate from college, alongside Chandramukhi Basu, from Bethune College, Calcutta in 1883.
- She became the first Indian woman to practice Western medicine, completing her medical degree from Calcutta Medical College in 1886.
- Her groundbreaking achievements defied societal norms and opened doors for women in professions traditionally dominated by men.
- In 1901, Kadambini Ganguly made history as the first woman to address an open session of the Indian National Congress (INC).
- This historic session took place in Calcutta (now Kolkata, West Bengal).
- Kadambini delivered the vote of thanks in front of prominent leaders, emphasizing the increasing recognition of women’s contributions to the freedom struggle and public life.
- Her speech was revolutionary for its time, inspiring women to actively engage in politics and activism.
- Representation of Women: Kadambini’s address marked a pivotal moment in India’s history, encouraging women to participate in political and social movements.
- Breaking Gender Barriers: At a time when women’s voices were marginalized, her speech challenged societal norms and underscored the critical role women could play in shaping India’s future.
- Recognition of Women’s Leadership: Her speech also highlighted the evolving recognition of women as leaders and agents of change in India’s nationalist movement.
- Kadambini Ganguly is remembered as a pioneer in medicine and a trailblazer for women’s rights and public participation in India.
- Her achievements inspired generations of Indian women to pursue careers in public life, politics, and medicine.
- The 1901 INC session remains a landmark event in the history of the women’s movement in India, solidifying Kadambini’s place in history.
- Kadambini Ganguly was the first Indian woman doctor and the first woman to address an open session of the Indian National Congress in 1901 in Calcutta (now Kolkata, West Bengal).
- Her speech during the session, which included a vote of thanks, was a pivotal moment in recognizing women’s roles in India’s nationalist movement and public life.
- She continues to be celebrated as a trailblazer in both medicine and women’s empowerment.
