Anandi Gopal Joshi took on the responsibility of running the household at the young age of 9. Her story is truly remarkable in every sense. This is a tale from the 19th century, when sending girls to schools was considered an outrageous thought. During the time, Anandi Gopal Joshi emerged as the country’s first female doctor, etching her name forever in the pages of history. She lived a short life and died at the age of 21. Despite that, she left behind a legacy of achievements. This International Women’s Day let’s read about her inspiring journey. 

Early life

Anandi Gopal Joshi was born on 31 March 1865 in Kalyan, Thane, Maharashtra. She was originally named Yamuna. As per the customs of the time, she was married to Gopalrao Joshi at the tender age of 9. Her husband was 20 years older than her. Following her marriage, she adopted the name Anandi. At an age, when kids busy themselves in sports and games, Anandi had to shoulder multiple household responsibilities.

A tragic loss

Anandi Gopal Joshi’s husband Gopalrao Joshi was a postal clerk. He was of modern thoughts who supported women’s right to education. Anandi became a mother at the age of 14. Sadly, the couple’s child passed away just ten days after birth. She was deeply affected by the loss of her child, and this significant experience led her to pursue a career in medicine. 

Husband’s support

Anandi Gopal Joshi’s lost her child due to the lack of medical assistance. After recovering from the loss, she resolved to contribute her part to prevent such tragedies for other people. She determined to become a doctor to provide people with necessary medical facilities. Anandi received immense support from her husband who sought to educate her. Initially, the couple visited a missionary school for Anandi’s admission but could not make it happen. Then Gopalrao took Anandi to Kolkata, where she received education in both Sanskrit and English. 

Education in America

In 1980, Gopalrao wrote a letter to the renowned American missionary, Royal Wilder, inquiring about opportunities for Anandi to study in America. Wilder published this correspondence in the Princeton Missionary Review. A resident of New Jersey, Theodicia Carpenter, came across the letter and felt motivated to extend support to Anandi. She sent an invitation to Anandi to pursue her studies in the USA.

Last days

Anandi Gopal was a student at Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, USA. She completed her education in medicine and returned to India in 1886. Tragically, her health deteriorated, and she passed away on 26 February 1887, at the young age of 21. Her dream of becoming a doctor came true but her aspirations of providing medical facilities to people in need remained unfulfilled. However, her legacy lives on as an inspiration to all the young girls dreaming big. 

Being an inspiration

Anandi Gopal Joshi gave a movine speech at Serampore College Hall, where she inspired women to pursue careers in medicine. She shared her dream of becoming a doctor with an aim to encourage other women to do the same. Her passionate speech deeply moved the audiences, which led her to receive immense financial support from across India.