Who Was Anna Mani? The Forgotten Indian Weather Scientist

Long before climate change became a global concern, Anna Mani, a pioneer in meteorology, devoted her life to crafting instruments that would enhance our understanding of the environment. Unfortunately, despite being one of the world's first weather scientists, Mani remains largely unknown in her home country of India.

Mani's journey to becoming a pioneering meteorologist was marked by resilience against societal norms. In a time when women faced barriers to higher education and professional pursuits, she displayed an unwavering passion for meteorology. Born into a wealthy family, Mani defied convention by rejecting diamond earrings in favour of encyclopedias on her eighth birthday, setting the stage for a life dedicated to knowledge.

A Journey of Independence and Innovation

Born in 1918 in Travancore, Anna Mani emerged as a key figure in India's quest for self-reliance in weather measurement technology. Recognizing the importance of autonomy, Mani played a crucial role in steering India away from dependence on other nations for weather instruments. Her endeavours laid the groundwork for the country's meteorological independence.

Scientific Breakthroughs

In 1964, Mani achieved a significant milestone by creating the first Indian-made ozonesonde, an instrument launched into the atmosphere via balloon to measure ozone levels up to 35km above the Earth's surface. This innovation became instrumental in Indian expeditions to Antarctica, enabling scientists to swiftly corroborate Joseph Farman's groundbreaking discovery of an ozone layer "hole" in 1985.

Pioneering Green Technologies

Anna Mani was not only a weather scientist but also a visionary for green technologies. In the 1980s and 90s, she established approximately 150 sites to survey wind energy, contributing significantly to the foundation of renewable energy initiatives in India. Her meticulous findings facilitated the establishment of numerous wind farms across the country, showcasing her commitment to sustainable practices.

Mentorship Under CV Raman

Mani's journey began under the mentorship of the renowned physicist CV Raman. While Raman was an important influence in her career, he maintained a stringent policy of admitting only a few women to his lab, subjecting them to various restrictions. Raman's insistence on strict gender segregation within the laboratory limited Mani's opportunities for collaboration and intellectual exchange with her peers.

Working alongside another female student, Mani often found herself isolated from the mainstream discourse in the laboratory. The lack of healthy discussion and debate on scientific ideas hindered her professional growth. Colleagues, driven by gender bias, would unfairly perceive even minor errors in her work as signs of "female incompetence," reflecting the prevailing discriminatory attitudes of the time. Even when Mani audited a course on theoretical physics, the assumption prevailed that the material was "beyond her ken." Such preconceived notions about women's intellectual capabilities added an additional layer of challenge to Mani's educational pursuits.

Resilience in the Face of Patriarchy

In the early 1960s, Mani faced another setback when she was unable to participate fully in the International Indian Ocean Expedition. Despite her expertise and willingness, societal norms prevented her from boarding Indian Navy ships to collect vital data. This restriction reflected the pervasive gender bias that hindered women's participation in various professional spheres.

Despite these obstacles, Anna Mani demonstrated remarkable resilience. Refusing to perceive herself as a victim of patriarchal attitudes, she insisted that her gender never impeded her professional aspirations. Her unwavering determination and commitment to her work paved the way for future generations of women aspiring to break free from gender constraints in the scientific community.

Legacy and Continued Inspiration

Anna Mani passed away in 2001, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Her refusal to see herself as a victim of patriarchal attitudes speaks volumes about her determination. Mani's impact on weather science, renewable energy, and her pioneering spirit serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a woman who navigated uncharted territories, leaving an indelible mark on India's scientific landscape.