Kanupriya Agarwal: India's First Test-Tube Baby

Kanupriya Agarwal: India's First Test-Tube Baby

After 67 Days ( 2 Months and more ) of world's first test tube baby born ( Louise Brown ) , India made the history with world's 2nd test tube baby - Kanupriya Agarwal. Born under the auspicious glow of the first day of Durga Puja on October 3, 1978, Kanupriya was divinely christened 'Durga' by her parents, a name as radiant as the festival itself.

This remarkable achievement was a testament to the groundbreaking work of Dr. Subhash Mukhopadhyay a brilliant Bengali cryobiologist and the prominent gynecologist Dr. Saroj Bhattacharya from kolkata, whose pioneering efforts brought Kanupriya into the world, making India the second country to successfully perform IVF.

This milestone not only brought immense joy to Kanupriya's parents, who had endured years of infertility, but also opened doors of hope for countless couples across the nation struggling with similar challenges.

Tragically, instead of recognition, Dr. Mukherjee faced skepticism, ridicule, and rejection from scientists and peers. The medical and scientific communities, along with the government, turned against him. His groundbreaking research was dismissed by an expert panel, and his international collaborations were cruelly stifled. The relentless harassment took a devastating toll, ultimately leading to his tragic suicide on 18th of June 1981 . His final words, "I can't wait every day for a heart attack to kill me," poignantly captured the despair he endured.

It was Dr. T. C. Anand Kumar's unwavering dedication that finally brought Dr. Mukhopadhyay the recognition he so rightfully deserved, ensuring that his groundbreaking achievement in Indian reproductive medicine would not be forgotten.

Years later, justice, though belated, began to prevail. Dr. Mukherjee's contributions were finally acknowledged, and his legacy began to be celebrated. Moved by his pioneering spirit, Kanupriya, the child of his triumph, even petitioned for the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, for her "creator."

Kanupriya, now in her 40s, enjoys a quiet life in Mumbai with her husband and their 12-year-old daughter. A vocal advocate for infertility awareness, she openly shares her own journey, despite having conceived her child naturally.

Kanupriya's birth underscored the remarkable potential of medical science to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Her legacy continues to inspire and offer hope to those facing infertility, reminding us of the incredible advancements in reproductive medicine that have transformed lives and families.