House of Muthulakshmi Reddy, India’s first woman medicine graduate, in a dilapidated state

Muthulakshmi Reddy – Key Notes

1. Personal and Educational Background

• First woman to graduate in medicine in India.
• Pioneering figure in women’s education and healthcare.

2. Professional Contributions

• Founded Avvai Home for destitute girls.
• Established Adyar Cancer Institute in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• Advocated for women’s health, education, and social reform.

3. Political and Social Work

• One of the first female legislators in British India.
• Actively worked on women’s rights and empowerment.
• Involved in legislation to improve public health and education.

4. Heritage and Legacy

• Heritage preservation: associated with restoring temple lands and historical houses.
• Dr. Reddy Memorial commemorates her contributions.
• Inspired movements in girls’ education, healthcare, and community service.

5. Key Themes

• Women empowerment
• Healthcare advancement
• Social reform
• Education for girls
• Heritage conservation
  
  Updated - August 06, 2025 05:57 pm | The Hindu