Trailblazing Woman Driver: A Story of Firsts

M Vasanthakumari, hailing from Elavuvilai, a small village in Kanniyakumari, shattered gender stereotypes by becoming the first woman bus driver for TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation). Growing up without a mother and grandmother, Vasanthakumari faced numerous challenges but managed to pursue her passion for driving. Despite dropping out of school, she honed her driving skills and eventually joined a driving school in Palliyadi. Overcoming societal discomfort and prejudices, she approached Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa after a failed interview due to an incorrect height measurement. The CM intervened, and Vasanthakumari successfully qualified for the position.

On March 30, 1993, she was appointed as the first woman bus driver, receiving her appointment order directly from Jayalalithaa. Vasanthakumari’s exceptional journey saw her earn respect from her male colleagues and cover various routes across Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Thiruvananthapuram. After 24 years of service, she retired in 2017 but continued to inspire as a role model. Despite health challenges, she remains dedicated to helping others, including providing transportation for the elderly and advocating for women’s rights. Vasanthakumari’s ultimate dream is to see more women breaking barriers and taking the wheel.

-Re-reported from the article originally published in The New Indian Express