Category: What’s Trending

From being a minority, women in science now hold the most crucial positions in previously unattainable fields. From Nobel Prizes to NASA leadership, women scientists have made history.

As we celebrate National Science Day on February 28, let’s honour and appreciate the outstanding achievements of Indian women scientists who have played a vital role in defining the scientific landscape of our country.

These pioneering women have broken through glass barriers and made ground-breaking contributions that have moved India forward in a world where gender roles in science are continuously altering.

Keep reading to look more in-depth at the remarkable Indian women scientists who have been active over the years.

Here is a list of Indian women scientists who have contributed to STEM fields and are role models for young women:

1. Kadambini Ganguly (1861-1923)

The first Indian woman to get admission to Calcutta Medical College (1884) became India’s first female doctor and practitioner (1886) of Western medicine in the whole of South Asia.

2. Mary Poonen Lukose (1886-1976)

The first female surgeon general in India (1938). She became the first female obstetrician in India.

3. Bibha Chowdhary (1913-1991)

She was the first woman high-energy physicist in India and the first woman scientist at the TIFR in 1948. The International Astronomical Union honoured her by naming a white-yellow dwarf star after her name.

4. Edavaleth Kakkat Janaki Ammal (1897-1984)

Renowned botanists and plant cytologists made significant contributions to genetics, evolution, phytogeography and ethnobotany. First Director of the Central Botanical Laboratory at Allahabad, 1952.

5. Kamala Sohonie (1911-1998)

She was the first Indian woman to receive a PhD in a scientific discipline. She discovered the enzyme ‘Cytochrome C’, which plays an essential role in the electron transport chain occurring in plants, human and animal cells for energy synthesis.

6. Asima Chatterjee (1917-2006)

She was the first woman to be awarded a Doctor of Science by an Indian university (Calcutta) in 1944. She was the first woman to be elected as the General President of the Indian Science Congress.

7. Ketayun Ardeshir Dinshaw (1943 – 2011)

She was a prominent personality in the field of Indian medicine and was also awarded the Padma Shri in 2001 for her contribution to the evolution of modern cancer treatment and radiation therapy.

8. Archana Bhattacharyya (1948)

First woman director of the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism, DST. She specialises in the fields of ionospheric physics, geomagnetism, and space weather.

9. Sujatha Ramdorai (1962)

Ramdorai is a professor of mathematics and the first Indian mathematician to win the prestigious ICTP Ramanujan Prize (2006) and Padma Shri (2023).

10. Tessy Thomas (1963)

The first woman scientist to head a missile project in India as project director for Agni-IV missile and working as a Director General of Aeronautical Systems, DRDO

11. Renu Swaroop (1957)

Dr. Swarup is an Indian geneticist and head of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology. She actively established India’s largest microbial resource centre, Microbial Culture Collection. The National Centre for Cell Science also named a recently discovered microbial species, Natrialba swarupiae in her honour.

12. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay (1968)

First woman computer scientist & director of the Indian Statistical Institute. And a Padmashri (2022) Infosys prize in 2017.

13. Soumya Swaminathan (1959)

First Indian to become WHO’s Deputy Director General, and also its first chief scientist. She is an Indian paediatrician and clinical scientist known for her research on tuberculosis and HIV.

14. Aditi Sen De (1974)

She was the first female physicist awarded the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize in 2018. Aditi Sen De is an Indian scientist, and a professor in the quantum information and computation group at the Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Allahabad.

15. Gagandeep Kang (1962)

The first Indian woman to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, also received the Infosys Prize (2016) for her scientific career

16. Neena Gupta (1984)

She is the youngest person to ever receive the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, at the age of 35. Neena Gupta is a professor at the Statistics and Mathematics unit of the Indian Statistical Institute. Recently honoured with the TWAS-CAS Young Scientist Award in Mathematics/ AI in 2023.

17. GC Anupama

Dr. Anupama, Bengaluru’s Indian Institute of Astrophysics Dean and senior professor, is the first woman president of the Astronomical Society of India (ASI) in 2019.

18. Chandrima Saha (1952)

First woman president of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) as an Indian biologist. She received her recent award in 2023, the Dr. SP Ray-Chaudhuri Memorial Lecture Award India.

19. Jyotirmayee Dash

A professor at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jyotirmayee Dash researches organic chemistry and chemical biology. She is the youngest woman scientist to receive the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in Chemical Sciences.

Proudly Indians

The narrative of women in science has evolved from being a minority to holding pivotal positions in previously unattainable fields, from awards to leadership roles in prestigious organisations.

Let’s recognise and appreciate the groundbreaking contributions of these Indian women scientists who serve as inspiring role models for young women.

As per our Hindu calendar, we will see four eclipses this year. So, if you are among those who like to learn about cosmic connections and more, this year will be a special one for you.

Holi 2025 is taking place with a lunar eclipse; isn’t that amazing? Seems like the universe is inviting us to explore the significance of this enchanting mix of traditions and mystique.

However, let’s not forget About Rang Panchmi, another vibrant Indian festival following Holi, adding more color and joy to our festivities.

Understanding the Significance: Lunar Eclipse on Holi 2025

This festival is my personal favorite. Winning good over evil isn’t just a saying. This festival says it all in a much-celebrated way.

Besides the WHY, we all have so many reasons to enjoy Holi 2025, ganging up with friends, joining family, and playing around with colors.

A festival with so many reasons to look up to is fun to talk about too. Another distinctive reason could be the astrology perspective when you attach great spiritual significance along.

For astrology enthusiasts amidst the Holi festivities and lunar eclipse, Holashtak 2025 holds significant importance. It will start from March 08 to March 25, when you need to refrain from performing anything auspicious that aligns with traditional beliefs.

However, Holi 2025 has more significance since it will fall on the same day as the lunar eclipse, carrying spirituality, tradition, and astrological significance.

As a person connected to Vedic wisdom, many people find solace in this alignment of celestial energy with human ceremonies or traditions. It’s like telling us how everything is linked and how beautifully the terrestrial and celestial realms intertwine.

Do you know there are three types of lunar eclipses? If the answer is no check them below.

What are the three types of lunar eclipses, and which will occur on Holi 2025?

I am excited since we will see a penumbral lunar eclipse this Holi. What do we mean by that? What is a penumbral lunar eclipse? Let’s dive in and discover the secret together!

Types of Lunar Eclipse

Lunar eclipse has three types, depending on how the sun, moon, and Earth line up. There’s extra for us in store this Holi.

1. Total Lunar Eclipse

As far as I know, a total lunar eclipse is when the Earth’s shadow completely shields the moon, giving it a captivating yet deep red glow. It’s like witnessing nature’s show, filling our hearts with excitement and wonder.

2. Partial Lunar Eclipse

As the name suggests, it existed only in part. A partial lunar eclipse is like the moon playing hide-and-seek with the sun and the Earth, where only part of the moon hides in shadow. In this lunar eclipse type, the shadow appears dark on the side it faces the Earth.

3. Penumbral Lunar Eclipse

During a Penumbral Lunar Eclipse, it seems as if the faint outer part of the moon is wrapped in a delicate shadow, painting a subtle yet enchanting picture in the sky during the night.

Holika Dahan 2025 Muhurat or Timing

For many people in India and some other areas, doing everything at the right time (as per astrological facts) is prominent.

• Holika Dahan this year will commence on Sunday, March 24.
• Holika Dahan Muhurta – 11:13 to 12:27 AM(Mar 25)
• Duration – 01 Hour and 14 Mins
• Bhadra Punchha – 06:33 to 07:53
• Bhadra Mukha – 07:53 to 10:06 PM

To my knowledge, performing Holika Dahan at the wrong time attracts misfortune and suffering.

As per the Vedic Panchang, Holi celebrations under lunar eclipse influence at Purnima Tithi begin from 09:54 a.m. on March 24 and last until 12:29 p.m. on March 25.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the lunar eclipse visible in India on Holi 2025?

No, this year’s lunar eclipse won’t be visible from India.

2. Is the lunar eclipse harmful to the eyes?

Seeing a lunar eclipse without assistance, either wearing binoculars or a telescope, is safe. 

3. Where will the lunar eclipse in 2025 be visible?

It will be visible from Europe, Africa, North and East Asia, North and South America, and more.

Takeaways

• Though it’s fascinating for skywatchers to witness such events, it also sparks all sorts of myths and beliefs, especially in cultures like ours that are deeply rooted in ancient traditions and astrology.
• The lunar eclipse on the same day as Holi 2025 offers a unique cosmic alignment of events.
• This significant event serves as a reminder of the nature of life and the value of accepting change with resilience and grace as the moon changes during a lunar eclipse.

As the mother of a lovely son and a woman, I put my family’s safety and health first and take every precaution to avoid possible harm, even with events like lunar eclipses.

Have a safe and happy Holi!

Our children have seen superheroes on TV, and they want to become like them and unknowingly cultivate some of their traits, like courage and determination.

Teaching our kids morals and life skills has never been more vital. As parents, we strive to foster courage and leadership in our children. We want them to be confident, ethical, and ready to face life’s problems. But don’t you think our kids should know about Indian culture too?

We should educate our children about our culture and the superheroes of our country and teach them some of their characteristics, which will help them excel in the future.

Today, on the occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2024, let me take you all through the chronicle of the great achievements of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the Maratha warrior-king.

Let’s begin Shivaji Maharaj’s expedition with our young explorers, sail together into time, and revisit the exciting stories of the great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: The Legendary Hero!

Shivaji Maharaj, the brave warrior and the founder of the Maratha Empire, has been worshipped in Indian history ever since. Every February 19, Shivaji Maharaj is honoured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti for his life and acts. Shivaji Maharaj, an Indian legend, is warmly embraced and celebrated by the citizens on this day.

Shivaji Maharaj was born in Pune’s Shivneri Fort on February 19, 1630. His parents were Jijabai and Shahaji Bhosale, an Adil Shahi general. Shivaji Maharaj was raised with patriotism and a passion for his country. Hinduism and Maratha’s bravery also shaped him. These influences shaped his personality and his future goals.

Shivaji Maharaj learned fighting and statecraft early on. His schooling included military tactics, history, and administration. He also lived with courage, determination, and selflessness. Shivaji Maharaj’s first major military triumph was taking Torna Fort from the Adil Shahis, aged 16. His distinguished military and leadership career began with this win.

Shivaji Maharaj built a great Maratha Empire spanning most of India. Guerrilla and naval warfare are his military innovations. For years, Shivaji Maharaj has inspired Indians with his leadership, courage, and patriotism.

Read more: https://beingmomandmore.com/7-tips-for-kids-wedding-dresses-in-india/

What Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Did in the Past: With a Kids Perspective!

Fortress Master:
Shivaji Maharaj was a great fort builder and conqueror! He constructed forts from nothing, making the mountains his playground and giving them a genuine superhero clubhouse feel. You can imagine that you’re creating your fort with a secret passage—cool, huh?

Smart Strategist:
Shivaji Maharaj was an exceptional king, the master of all strategies. He engaged in psychological warfare with his opponents, similar to the way chess masters act in reality. Just picture yourself outplaying your friends in a game.😀

People’s Hero:
He was not only about battles and forts, but Shivaji Maharaj was also Janata Janardhan (a hero of the people)! He was for everyone—a true superhero who was always taking care of the safety of his citizens. Now that’s a cool thought: be the hero in your neighbourhood by giving kindness and lots of high-fives everywhere.

Read more: https://beingmomandmore.com/13-easy-cake-recipes-to-impress-your-mom-on-mothers-day-2023/ 

Life Lessons for Kids from Shivaji Maharaj!

1. Courage and Determination: The way Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj emerged as a leader fully equipped with the necessary strength and resilience in battles speaks to his exceptional courage and commitment. By maintaining their self-determined direction, the children understand how facing adversity can be done bravely and persistently.

2. Leadership and Strategy: Shivaji Maharaja was a visionary and an intelligent strategist. Though the kids might not know, the ways that he led can teach them how to be better decision-makers, have a good strategy, and have the ability to lead by example.

3. Respect for All: Shivaji Maharaj was the upholder of the principle that people of all kinds and all classes must be treated with dispassion and respect. This lesson stresses the necessity of inclusivity and teaches the children that it is important to treat one another with respect and kindness.

4. Empathy and Compassion: The empathetic Maratha king transcended all these attributes simultaneously. Kids can grasp the virtues of sympathy in understanding people’s emotions, repentance in being courteous to others, and empathy in assisting the needy from the example of Shivaji Maharaj.

5. The Impact on Society: Shivaji Maharaj’s reign was a transformative event, creating a class consciousness of justice, equality, and governance. Children can learn early about the correlations between individual deeds and the welfare of society so that they can understand how to improve the community and contribute to the public good.

6. Creativity and Innovation: Shivaji Maharaj was admired for his intelligent military tactics and creative ideas. These values will seed a growth mindset that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and the capacity to overcome adversities in children.

7. Importance of Education: Shivaji the Great understood the necessity of education for the creation of an educated society, which can constructively engage and develop. Children can comprehend the importance of striving in their academics to gain knowledge and keep improving as individuals who will improve their lives and the community.

Remember:
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life is not all about historical battles only, he is also a source of inspiration for encouraging the kids to learn the important lessons to be imbibed in their lives.

On Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2024, let’s pass on these timeless lessons to the young generation and groom them in virtues like courage, resilience, and responsibility.

Hearing of cancer is kind of scary and baffling. But, every time this sort of concern arises, it makes me think about what makes it critical to the level that harms our emotions, health, joy and life altogether. The news came up recently when TV Actor Dolly Sohi shared that she had to take a break from shooting her television series “Jhanak” owing to issues that arose when she was undergoing treatment for cervical cancer.

Sohi stated in an interview with the Times of India that she turned a blind eye to all of the warning signs regarding her health for months, which ultimately led to a decline in her condition.

Dolly Sohi’s Brave Announcement:

She stated, “I have quit the show because I want to focus on my health. I was working during my chemotherapy, but now I am undergoing radiation, and that takes a lot out of me. It was not possible to continue working for a daily soap, so I decided to quit. The production house has been supportive of my decision. Due to radiation, I have been feeling weak and unable to do anything. I have to undergo more radiation cycles, which will make it difficult for me to work.”

So if it is something that brings a red flag to you too, keep an eye here till the end:

• Understanding Cervical Cancer
• Risk Factors
• Symptoms of Cervical Cancer
• Know Better – Benign or Malignant
• Takeaways

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dolly Sohi (@dolly_sohi)

Understanding Cervical Cancer:

Fighting a condition like cancer is challenging but needs to be figured out as early as possible. Cancer is a disorder that leads to the uncontrolled growth of body cells. Even if it spreads to other parts of the body at a later time, cancer is always named for the part of the body where it first manifests itself. When it starts in the cervix, its name is cervical cancer. This condition affects many women over the age of 30.

Infection of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that has persisted for a long time is the primary cause of cervical cancer. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection from one individual to another.

At some point, at least half of sexually active people will be infected with HPV, but only a small percentage of them will develop cervical cancer. People who become sexually active at a young age or have multiple sexual partners are more likely to get a high-risk type of HPV infection.

Factors to Know about the Risks:

• Lack of Regular Pap Smears: Pap smears can detect precancer and aberrant cervical cell alterations before they become malignant. Missing these checkups increases the risk of cervical cancer going undiagnosed.
• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether as a result of illnesses such as HIV or certain drugs, may have a higher chance of acquiring cervical cancer.
• Smoking and Drug Use: Both smoking and drug use are linked to an increased risk of developing cervical cancer. Toxic substances present in tobacco and drugs can harm cervical cells, making them more vulnerable to the effects of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Symptoms of Cervical Cancer:

Women need to be aware of all the symptoms associated with cervical cancer so that timely detection and treatment are possible. Typical symptoms of cervical cancer may include the following:

• Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding that occurs between periods, after sexual activity, or after menopause can be an early symptom of cervical cancer.
• Pelvic Pain: Continuous pelvic pain or discomfort that is not associated with menstrual cycles or other transient conditions may be an indication of cervical cancer.
• Pain During Intercourse: When engaging in sexual activity, women who may have cervical cancer can experience pain or discomfort associated with sexual activity.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: In certain cases, advanced stages of cervical cancer are associated with sudden and unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue: Generalised exhaustion or a sensation of low energy that continues despite adequate rest is what we mean when we talk about fatigue.

Know Better – Benign or Malignant?

Cervical cancer occurs when healthy cells on the cervix become infected with HPV and grow out of control, causing a tumour. Long-term HPV infection of the cervix can cause a tumour. Tumours can be malignant or benign. Malignant tumours can spread. Benign tumours do not spread.

A cell’s initial modifications are abnormal, not malignant, and called “atypical cells.” Some atypical cells disappear without treatment, but others can develop malignant. This precancerous illness is called “cervical dysplasia” due to aberrant cell proliferation.

Sometimes dysplastic tissue must be eliminated to prevent malignancy. Dysplasia tissue can often be removed without affecting good tissue.

However, cervical cancer prevention may require a hysterectomy. A hysterectomy removes the uterus and cervix.

The treatment of precancerous lesions depends on the following factors:

• Lesion size and cell alterations
• Patients wish to have children later
• Age and health of the patient
• Doctor preferences

Takeaways

Dolly Sohi is one of the inspirations we come across when we forget how critical is our role in life. In fact, in the lives of our loved ones. Lets swear by that one moment when we felt that rage of ignoring our health for any small reason and take it as inspiration and feel the love for our selves. Lets bring happiness to our selves by doing bit by bit.

With our best wishes to Dolly in this battle against cervical cancer, let’s use this opportunity within her fight against the disease to enhance the talk about women’s health and make other people’s regular examinations and screenings a priority in their lives.

Take Care! Stay Healthy!!