Even today, Indian women struggle to find a place in the society that continues to be majorly male-dominated. Yet there are some women who have battled prejudices and have made a mark for themselves. Here's a list of five powerful Indian women who raise the bar of success and motivation. 

MC Mary Kom

Five times World Amateur Boxing champion, MC Mary Kom is the first Indian female boxer to win a Gold Medal in the Asian Games. In 2012 Summer Olympics, Kom was placed third and was awarded the Bronze Medal. Coming from a farmer’s family and making a name in world boxing, Mary’s story is beyond inspiring. 

M C Mary Kom

MC Mary Kom

Durga Shakti Nagpal

Durga Shakti Nagpal came into limelight when she launched a drive against illegal sand mining in Greater Noida. In a world where women are considered weak, she turned out to be an epitome of courage. 

Durga Shakti Nagpal

Durga Shakti Nagpal

Kalpana Chawla

The first Indian female to go into space, Kalpana Chawla even after her unfortunate death, continues to be a role model for women who believe that sky is not the limit.  

Kalpana Chawla

Kalpana Chawla

Kiran Bedi

The first female IPS officer of India, Kiran Bedi transcended all conventional career options which girls usually take, and chose to be a police officer. She rose to be a top cop in the country. 

Kiran Bedi

Kiran Bedi

Tessy Thomas

Better known as the “Missile Woman of India”, Tessy Thomas led the project of Agni IV missile. She also happens to be the first women to lead a missile project in India.

Tessy Thomas

Tessy Thomas