Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja's Inspiring Tale From Being A DU Professor To An International Swimmer

Within every woman, one can find attributes like patience, resilience, love, and nurturing. Whenever a woman sets her mind on a task, she demonstrates her determination through her actions. She shines the brightest when faced with the most challenging circumstances, showcasing her inner strength.

As part of Her Zindagi's new campaign called 'Shakti Rupena Sasthita,' we bring you the narratives of such remarkable women. Today, we will delve into the life of Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja, India's pioneering female marathon swimmer, a dedicated social activist, and currently, an Associate Professor at Lady Shri Ram College (Delhi University). Her achievements were acknowledged with the Women Power Award presented by President Ram Nath Kovind in 2018. She is often hailed as the 'mermaid of India.'

HerZindagi’s new campaign, 'Shakti Rupen Sansthita', is an initiative to bring you stories of inspiring, independent, and strong women from different corners of India. We see every woman as an embodiment of strength. Some influence the world with their professional growth, others by personal choices. We believe that there is Goddesses Durga in every woman, and this initiative glorifies their efforts to bring a positive change in our society.

Who Is Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja?

Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja holds the distinction of being India's pioneering female marathon swimmer, a title that has earned her the affectionate moniker, the 'Mermaid of India.' Her journey into the world of swimming commenced during her formative years at Delhi's Modern School. It was during this time that her journey towards becoming a celebrated marathon swimmer began, under the guidance of a rather unique coach, her late father.

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Currently, Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja serves as an associate professor at Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University. Beyond her remarkable achievements in the realm of swimming, she is also an ardent social activist. Her dedicated efforts are primarily focused on uplifting underprivileged women and children, with an unwavering commitment to securing brighter prospects for their future.

Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja's Journey To Become An International Swimmer

Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja's journey has been characterised by a series of significant accomplishments. She initiated her swimming journey at the early age of five and, by the time she was nine, had already secured the Junior Champion title, ultimately becoming a three-time National Champion before she turned eleven. Her unwavering commitment and relentless efforts culminated in her setting three Limca Book of Records, achieving this feat in 2013, 2016, and 2018.

Her aspiration to excel in long-distance (long distance quotes for partner) marathon swimming was ignited in 2006 when she ventured into open water swimming in the Bhagirathi River in West Bengal. Pursuing this dream demanded rigorous training and determination.

In 2006, Dr. Pahuja embarked on her inaugural open water swim, covering a distance of 19 kilometres in the Bhagirathi River. Her journey eventually led her to international level, where she made history as the first Indian woman to participate in an open water marathon swim in Florida in 2016. Her extraordinary achievements continued in 2017 when she secured a gold medal for India in the marathon swim held in Minsk.

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In 2018, she accomplished the formidable feat of Crossing Constance Lake in Germany. Her remarkable contributions to the realm of swimming were duly acknowledged when she was honoured with the Nari Shakti Puraskar (Women Empowerment Award) by the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, in 2018.

Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja Currenty Works As A DU Professor

At present, Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja serves as an associate professor at Lady Shri Ram College, affiliated with Delhi University. She stands as a matter of great national pride, having significantly enhanced India's standing in the realm of sports. Moreover, Dr. Meenakshi Pahuja is deeply committed to social activism and dedicates her unwavering efforts to securing a promising future for disadvantaged children.

She also collaborates with various non-governmental organisations that are dedicated to motivating children in both academics and sports, extending support as needed. Additionally, she advocates for enhanced educational facilities for differently-abled children. Her tireless efforts in these areas have garnered her several accolades and honours.