Google doodle celebrates 153rd birth anniversary of India's first lady doctor

Pic Courtesy: ANI

NEW DELHI: Search engine Google on Saturday celebrated the 153rd birth anniversary of India's first lady doctor Anandi Gopal Joshi with a Doodle. Today’s Doodle, created by Bangalore-based artist Kashmira Sarode portrays Joshi celebrating her medical degree.

"In 1886, a young doctor stepped off a ship from America, eager to take up the role of physician in charge of the female ward at Kolhapur's Albert Edward Hospital. Not only was she India's first female doctor, but she was only 19 years old at the time. Her name was Anandi Gopal Joshi, and her story is one of courage and perseverance," Google writes in its blog.

Born on March 31, 1865, Joshi got married at the age of nine. Her better half, however, encouraged her to continue her education.

The nation's first lady doctor earned her medical degree from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania, now known as Drexel University College of Medicine. After completion of course, Joshi returned to India with dreams of opening a medical college for women.

"Joshi's young life was tragically cut short when she died of tuberculosis before her 22nd birthday. However, her legacy and the path she paved for generations of women continues today. Interestingly, even a crater on Venus is named after her!" the blog adds. 

(With inputs from ANI)