The remarkable story of 79-year-old Savithri Narayanan from Thrissur is a beacon of inspiration for women across India. As the world’s first female national hydrographer, Dr. Narayanan retired as the director general of Ocean Science and Hydrographic Services in Canada, leaving a legacy of groundbreaking achievements.
Her journey began in a modest Brahmin family during the 1950s, navigating through societal norms that once deemed crossing the sea as taboo.
From these constraints, she emerged as an ocean science expert, undertaking extensive travels across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic Oceans to conduct vital research and create hydrographic charts.
Recently, her memoir, Jeevitha Sagaram, was launched by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the Kerala Legislative International Book Festival. Dr. Narayanan reflected on her extraordinary life, sharing her evolution from a small village in Thrissur to an international pioneer in hydrography.
Path to Self-Reliance
The tragic loss of her one-year-old sister spurred Dr. Narayanan’s determination to achieve self-reliance through education. Faced with the financial challenges of her father’s meager income as a priest, furthering her studies seemed daunting.
“I feel fortunate to have had support throughout my childhood and career,” Dr. Narayanan stated. “I pursued BSc in Mathematics due to financial constraints but excelled, later achieving first rank in both my graduation and post-graduation. My academic journey continued with a research program at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, followed by a PhD in applied mathematics at Harvard University,” she explained, crediting her peers and mentors for their invaluable guidance.
From her initial fears of crossing Thekkinkadu Maidan in Thrissur to traveling solo to Paris and Geneva for assignments, Dr. Narayanan’s career spans over four decades. She has held prestigious roles, including vice-chairperson of the UNESCO Inter-Governmental Oceanographic Commission and founder of the Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission.
A Message for the Future
Now residing in Canada with her husband and children, Dr. Narayanan emphasizes the importance of hard work for the younger generation. “Success doesn’t come easy. Dedication allowed me to realize my dreams while supporting my family,” she asserted, highlighting Canada’s supportive environment for women in science compared to other countries where male dominance persists in the field.
Published – January 08, 2025 11:35 pm IST
