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Sarla Thakral – India’s First Woman to Fly an Aircraft
Sarla Thakral, born in 1914, made history at just 21 years of age by becoming the first Indian woman to fly an aircraft. Wearing a traditional saree, she climbed into a cockpit and soared into the skies – breaking not just the clouds, but also centuries of gender barriers.
Her Flight Was More Than Just Aviation…
In 1936, Sarla received her aviator license after completing 1,000 hours of flying in a Gypsy Moth aircraft – a huge feat, especially at a time when society discouraged women from stepping out of their homes, let alone into cockpits.
Her courage inspired thousands of women to dream beyond limits. She broke stereotypes, not just in aviation, but in every field she touched – including business and art.
Despite personal losses and life’s challenges, Sarla never stopped soaring. After her husband (also a pilot) passed away in a plane crash, she didn’t give up. Instead, she pursued fine arts, painting, and entrepreneurship – proving that true strength lies in adapting, evolving, and continuing to rise.
