This is a story of the woman who “created” history. She was a freedom fighter, a Gandhian, a prisoner, a social activist and a groundbreaking pioneer. She didn't just break barriers, but she carved her own path when the world had a little room for women in leadership and became India's first female Chartered Accountant. Her name? R. Sivabhogam. Now, being the first woman to enter a field still dominated by men - today with a ratio around 70:30 was no easy feat. Yet, it's the way she faced and overcame each challenge that makes the story truly inspiring and worth telling. To better understand her remarkable journey, let's go back to where it all began.
Born on July 23rd 1907, in Chennai, when India was still under British rule, R. Sivabhogam grew up in a time when opportunities for women were limited. She completed her schooling from Lady Wellington school in Chennai, where she was taught by a respected social service leader, R. S. Subbalakshmi, who inspired her dedication to community and justice. Sivabhogam later graduated from Queen Mary's College, the first women's college in Chennai and the third oldest in India. These early experiences, combined with intense freedom struggles surrounding her, sparked her commitment to the cause of India's Independence, inspired by Gandhian ideology, Sivabhogam, along with her friends, became an active participant in the Civil Disobedience Movement, an act that led to her imprisonment for 1 year.
Unlike most, who might lose hope in the face of imprisonment, Sivabhogam instead found a new purpose- developing a keen interest in the field of auditing. After her release, she shared her aspirations with her family, but her parents worried that no man would marry her if she became too educated and they opposed her idea. Despite this, with the unwavering support of her elder sister, she registered for a Government Diploma in Accountancy and created history by becoming the first female Chartered Accountant of India in the year 1933. But was this the end of her story? Not at all, the real struggle was just beginning.
After obtaining her diploma, she underwent articleship training under one of India’s esteemed CAs - Mr. C.S. Sastri. However, when she sought to start her own practice, she discovered a harsh obstacle- the British government had enacted a law barring former prisoners from registering as accountants. Stunned by this unjust law, Sivabhogam took action and filed a petition against it, ultimately winning a favorable verdict. Notably, a separate file titled “Sivabhogam” was opened in Delhi to document her petition. After all her hard fought battles, she was finally able to start her independent practice in 1937.
Sivabhogam’s remarkable achievements went well beyond her role as India's first female Chartered Accountant. Following the formation of Indian institute of Chartered Accountant (ICAI) in 1949, she became a member and later a fellow in 1950, where she made valuable contributions to the profession. She notably served as the only women chairperson of the Southern India Regional Council for three consecutive years from 1955 to 1958.
In addition to her auditing work for various government organizations, including Reserved Bank of India, she was deeply involved in social service, conducting audits for a number of charitable organizations on an honorary basis. Being a passionate advocate for girls' education, she provided scholarships and coaching classes to empower young women. She even established an award in the form of a gold locket for the best female candidate in the ICAI’s final examination, to inspire the future generation of female accountants.
On June 14, 1966, at the age of 58, R. Sivabhogam passed away. Though her life was relatively short, the impact she made was extraordinary. As the saying goes “ Zindagi lambi nahi, badi honi chahiye” and her life was the perfect example of this belief. Despite her accomplishments, she remained humble, wearing khadi and traveling by public transport all throughout her lifetime, reflecting her commitment to her values. R. Sivabhogam is remembered not only as the trailblazer but also as a symbol of perseverance and empowerment. Her journey inspires us to strive for excellence while holding true to our values, reminding us that a meaningful life is one that leaves a lasting impact.
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