Asian Descent > India Archives

Dr Kalpana Chawla

Indian-American astronaut

Kamala Lakshmi Narayanan

Kamala Lakshmi Narayanan is recognized the world over as the foremost proponent of Bharatanatyam, a southern Indian classical dance which combines artistic expression with rhythmic footwork.

An Indian American inventor known for creating a revolutionary dental filling material that improved the way dentists restore teeth, Sumita Mitra used her curiosity and imagination to discover the idea for the material where she least expected it.

Dr Sangeeta Bhatia

A biomedical researcher, MIT professor, and biotech entrepreneur, she has invented human microlivers to study drug metabolism and liver disease as well as nanoparticles that help diagnose, study, and treat ailments like cancer.

Gitanjali Rao

At 16 years old, Gitanjali Rao has invented a device to detect lead in water (inspired by the crisis in Flint, Michigan), an anti-bullying app, and was named TIME’s first “Kid of the Year” in 2020, among other notable accomplishments.

Anjani Ambegaokar

Anjani Ambegaokar came to the United States in 1967 from her native India and went on to become the most well known dancer, choreographer, and educator of Kathak in the nation.

Aayushi Khillan

Aayushi has made exceptional contributions to health education, youth empowerment and philanthropy. As the founder of Body Buddies, she has creatively engaged with communities worldwide.

Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha

India’s first female electrical engineering professional.

Mona Das

In 2018, Das was elected as a Washington state senator; Das’s career has been centered around advocating for BIPOC women, and her work in the Pacific Northwest has shed light on housing insecurity, the environment, equity and inclusion.

Pramila Jayapal

The first South Asian American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing the 7th district of Washington State.