Dr. Santhadevi: The Scientist Turned Mother of Many

Meet Dr. MR Santhadevi, a 75-year-old retired scientist who devoted her life to teaching and nurturing young minds. With a background in studying the mysteries of the sea as a scientist at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Dr. Santhadevi embarked on a second career as an educator, imparting knowledge to students of all ages.

She offers her teaching services free of charge, from nursery students to aspiring researchers. Despite not having children of her own, she considers her students as her own kids and dedicates most of her pension to their well-being and education.

Dr. Santhadevi’s expertise spans various subjects, including Physics, Chemistry, Maths, English, Sanskrit, Vedanta, and even dance. She pursued Bharatanatyam under the guidance of RLV Midhuna Atheesh and recently had her Arangetram, showcasing her dedication to lifelong learning.

Throughout her career, she also learned Russian as part of her job. Dr. Santhadevi’s husband, Gopalakrishnan, a former tour guide, wholeheartedly supports her in all her endeavors. The couple resides in the Shantiniketanam Community Home in Vaduthala after giving their home to a relative.

Dr. Santhadevi’s day starts at 4 AM as she diligently prepares lessons for her students. She conducts classes at centers, catering to school, college, and research students, as well as those preparing for entrance exams.

Her journey as an educator was inspired by her father’s advice to excel in her studies and share her knowledge with deserving individuals without expecting anything in return. Her commitment to education led her to achieve academic excellence, including a Doctorate in Physical Oceanography.

After 36 years of dedicated service, she retired from the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Lab at DRDO.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Kaumudi Online