Reaching for the Skies

Running parallel to the country's early years after independence, was the story of young Sumitra Sinha, later Bhattacharya, who rose above personal trials and tribulations to overcome family setbacks and literally soar in the skies. "Reaching For The Skies" is her autobiography that traces the exciting graph of a teenager who dared to dream in the 1950s. Joining Indian Airlines in 1956 as an air hostess, she witnessed the country's early years of air travel when 21-seater Dakotas and 44-seater Viscounts ferried passengers across the country in challenging circumstances.

Never one to be discouraged by obstacles, Sumitra rose to every occasion with grit and determination, balancing her career and family life with marvellous dexterity. Her story is inspirational even today, urging young girls to have ambitions and succeed in whatever field they choose to shine in.