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Some people quietly follow the path laid out for them, but then there are those who carve their own way, leaving behind a legacy of courage and inspiration. Athilakshmi is one such woman. Born into an orthodox family where girls were not encouraged to study, she defied all expectations to become a trailblazer in her field. From boldly stepping into the world of engineering to proving her worth in a male-dominated industry, her journey is a testament to resilience, wisdom, and unwavering determination. And even after retirement, she continues to inspire, proving that life's adventures never truly end.
Against the Odds: A Leap of Faith and Determination
Growing up in a conservative household, Athilakshmi never imagined she would one day step into the world of engineering. Education for girls was limited to school, and higher studies were rarely considered an option. But fate had other plans. When she secured admission to an engineering college, her father, initially hesitant, saw it as an opportunity too rare to ignore. Encouraged by relatives who reminded him how difficult it was to get a free engineering seat, he decided to support her.
The journey wasn’t easy. The first college she was assigned to didn’t have a hostel for girls. Not wanting her to stay in a PG accommodation, her father searched tirelessly for a better option. Eventually, she secured admission elsewhere, and she embraced the challenge of a five-year engineering program, something very few women in her family had ever attempted. “I didn’t have to convince my father,” she says. “My hard work spoke for itself.”
She recalls how overwhelming her first day in college felt. “Walking into a room full of men, being one of the few women in my class it was intimidating. But I told myself, I belong here. I deserve this.”
Beyond Success: A Leadership Style That Prioritizes Learning
Graduating as an engineer was only the beginning. Athilakshmi joined DPSU, one of India’s most respected organizations. Over the next 31 years, she built a reputation for hard work, precision, and leadership. Her dedication was so valued that when she requested a transfer, her bosses refused. “I could transfer only after others retired mine never came until my own retirement”
She still remembers the day a senior officer, whom she had never met, immediately recognized her name. “I know her,” he said. “Whatever work is given to her, it will be done perfectly and without delay.”
But what truly set Athilakshmi apart was her approach to leadership. While most seniors shared their successes, she focused on her mistakes, ensuring others could learn from them. “I tell people what I did wrong so they don’t repeat my mistakes. That’s the best way to lead.”
Her subordinates adored her, and when she retired, many expressed how much she had inspired them. “I never thought I was inspiring anyone,” she says, “But when people told me I was, it felt like my greatest achievement.”
Her thirst for learning never faded. “My achievement was completing my MBA and PMP at the age of 50. I believe in learning new things. Learning makes you grow.”
She took pride in constantly improving herself. “I wanted to prove that learning doesn’t stop with age. It keeps you young, it keeps you sharp.”
Graduating as an engineer was only the beginning. Athilakshmi joined DPSU, one of India’s most respected organizations. Over the next 31 years, she built a reputation for hard work, precision, and leadership. Her dedication was so valued that when she requested a transfer, her bosses refused. “I could transfer only after others retired mine never came until my own retirement”
She still remembers the day a senior officer, whom she had never met, immediately recognized her name. “I know her,” he said. “Whatever work is given to her, it will be done perfectly and without delay.”
But what truly set Athilakshmi apart was her approach to leadership. While most seniors shared their successes, she focused on her mistakes, ensuring others could learn from them. “I tell people what I did wrong so they don’t repeat my mistakes. That’s the best way to lead.”
Her subordinates adored her, and when she retired, many expressed how much she had inspired them. “I never thought I was inspiring anyone,” she says, “But when people told me I was, it felt like my greatest achievement.”
Her thirst for learning never faded. “My achievement was completing my MBA and PMP at the age of 50. I believe in learning new things. Learning makes you grow.”
She took pride in constantly improving herself. “I wanted to prove that learning doesn’t stop with age. It keeps you young, it keeps you sharp.”
Against the Odds: Reclaiming Mobility Through Sheer Willpower
In 2021, Athilakshmi faced her toughest challenge yet serious health issues. A hysterectomy followed by radiation therapy left her with nerve damage in her legs. Walking became a struggle, and for months, she relied on a stick. But giving up was never an option.
Her father had always told her, “Five elephants can stand on your chest, you are that strong.” Holding onto that belief, she pushed herself every day. After two years of determination and perseverance, she finally started walking without a stick.
Colleagues who had once admired her swift movements now saw her struggle, but when she regained her strength, they told her, “You are an inspiration. Most people at this age stop trying, but you didn’t.” She laughs as she recalls, “I never thought of myself as inspiring, but when people say it, I feel so proud.”
She believes that resilience is a mindset. “Life will test you. But if you refuse to give up, you will always find a way forward.”
In 2021, Athilakshmi faced her toughest challenge yet serious health issues. A hysterectomy followed by radiation therapy left her with nerve damage in her legs. Walking became a struggle, and for months, she relied on a stick. But giving up was never an option.
Her father had always told her, “Five elephants can stand on your chest, you are that strong.” Holding onto that belief, she pushed herself every day. After two years of determination and perseverance, she finally started walking without a stick.
Colleagues who had once admired her swift movements now saw her struggle, but when she regained her strength, they told her, “You are an inspiration. Most people at this age stop trying, but you didn’t.” She laughs as she recalls, “I never thought of myself as inspiring, but when people say it, I feel so proud.”
She believes that resilience is a mindset. “Life will test you. But if you refuse to give up, you will always find a way forward.”
When Athilakshmi retired in January 2022, she initially felt lost. For the first four months, she struggled to fill her days. Then, she rediscovered her love for craftwork basket weaving from waste paper, quilling, and crochet.
“I don’t even remember when I started basket weaving,” she says with a smile. “Maybe from my sister. Maybe from school. But now, I love it.”
She found joy in gifting her handmade crafts to friends and family. “When people come home, I give them something I made, and their happiness makes me happy.”
Life, she realized, is about the small joys. “I enjoy small things rather than big things. I make people happy when they come to me.”
Her days now begin with yoga, a practice that keeps her balanced and mindful. “Be happy, enjoy this moment. Don’t wait for something to make you happy.” Despite all her achievements, she still dreams of learning music. “I always wanted to learn vocal music. Maybe I will, someday.”
She has traveled to Europe, Australia, and Malaysia but dreams of visiting Rome, Dubai, and Sweden. “No plans yet,” she says. “But who knows? Maybe next year.”
The Endless Journey: Moving Forward with Purpose and Joy
Retirement is often seen as a time to slow down, but for Athilakshmi, it became a time to rediscover herself. A woman of resilience and determination, she has faced life’s challenges head-on whether it was fighting for her education, building a fulfilling career, or overcoming health struggles. And now, in this new chapter, she continues to inspire.
At Sukoon Unlimited, she found a space where experiences are valued, wisdom is shared, and friendships are formed. Here, she teaches basket weaving, mentors younger members, and reminds everyone that age is never a barrier to learning something new.
“Retirement isn’t the end of the road,” she says. “It’s a chance to explore, to give back, and to embrace life in new ways.”
Athilakshmi’s story is a testament to perseverance, courage, and the endless possibilities that come with an open heart and a curious mind. She proves that life after retirement isn’t about looking back it’s about moving forward, with purpose and joy.
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