A new book titled "Iru: The Remarkable Life of Irawati Karve" illuminates the fascinating story of India's first female anthropologist, Irawati Karve. Born in 1905 in Burma (now Myanmar), Karve defied conventions and broke barriers throughout her life. She pursued higher education abroad, became a college professor, and actively challenged racist theories. Her groundbreaking writings on Indian culture and civilization, especially concerning the caste system, continue to be included in the curriculum of Indian colleges.

Karve's life was filled with unexpected turns, shaped by her experiences and the individuals she met. At the age of seven, she was sent to a boarding school in Pune, where she encountered RP Paranjpye, a progressive educator who unofficially adopted her. Paranjpye introduced her to a lifestyle that valued critical thinking and ethical living, significantly influencing Karve's trajectory and encouraging her passion for social sciences. She later earned a doctorate in anthropology in Berlin, where she bravely challenged her mentor's racist hypothesis, risking her degree and reputation.

Her work was characterized by empathy and determination, particularly in her fieldwork. Karve traveled to remote villages, often sleeping in barns and going without food for days. She confronted societal and personal prejudices head-on, recognizing the humanity in everyone she encountered. Her studies fostered profound empathy, leading her to criticize fundamentalism in various religions, including Hinduism. She believed that India belonged to everyone who called it home.

Karve's legacy endures through her scholarly work and the inspiration it provides to others. It serves as a testament to her remarkable life and contributions to Indian anthropology. The book, authored by Karve's granddaughter Urmilla Deshpande and academic Thiago Pinto Barbosa, presents a nuanced and intimate portrait of Karve's life, highlighting her courage, conviction, and compassion. As India continues to confront issues of caste, identity, and social justice, Karve's work and legacy remind us of the vital importance of empathy, critical thinking, and righteous living. Her extraordinary life exemplifies the power of individual agency and the profound impact one person can have on the world.