Smriti Harijan: Journey of Nepal’s First Madhesi Dalit Woman Doctor
Santaram Harijan of Bahadurganj, Kapilvastu, has spent his life battling hardship, all while nurturing dreams of a better future for his children.
From Krishna Nagar Municipality–8, Bahadurganj, Smriti Harijan has now made history as the first woman doctor from the Madhesi Dalit community—especially among the Chamar, Dom, Musahar, and Badi castes.
A Childhood Marked by Determination
Born into a Dalit family, her early years were shaped by poverty, discrimination, and the smoke-filled, suffocating environment of brick kilns.
Despite caste-based insults and extreme financial hardship, Smriti never gave up on her education.
Her Achievement Is Not Hers Alone
Smriti’s success is more than personal—it is symbolic. Her achievement proves that systemic barriers can be broken through education.
She earned her MBBS degree from Janaki Medical College, Janakpur on a government scholarship and is currently completing her internship in Janakpur.
After passing the Nepal Medical Council (NMC) exam, she received waves of congratulations on social media. Following her internship, she is required to serve the government for two years as per policy.
From Local School to Medical Degree
Smriti completed her secondary education from Ram Gorkha Secondary School, a local school. She was always academically strong. She says,
"It’s difficult for girls from our community to even finish grade 8. Once we reach higher grades, efforts are made to stop us. The belief still exists that Dalits should not study."
She adds,
"I may be the first, but I won’t be the last. I am the drawer that opens to break down barriers, the star that lights the way for thousands to follow. Education is liberation. I want more girls like me to become doctors and engineers."
Her Father’s Struggles Sparked a Revolution at Home
Smriti’s father, Santaram Harijan, is a story of inspiration in his own right. He passed his SLC in 2039 BS and joined Nepal Police as an Assistant Sub-Inspector.
However, after arresting a powerful individual, he was falsely accused of taking a bribe of three thousand rupees and was dismissed.
"I was innocent, but you cannot win against power," he recalls.
After losing his job, he turned to teaching. Through labor, loans, and selling family jewelry, he ensured that his children never had to compromise on education.
A Family of Achievers
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Dr. Smriti Harijan is the youngest daughter, and now Nepal’s first Madhesi Dalit woman doctor.
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Srijana Harijan, the middle daughter, is currently studying MBA (Finance) in the United Kingdom. Her journey from a remote village to a prestigious European university is remarkable.
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Sandeep Harijan, their son, is pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Engineering at NIT Rourkela, India, on a full scholarship from the Government of India.
A Message That Echoes Beyond Borders
Smriti Harijan’s success is not just a personal milestone; it’s a symbol of transformation. It opens new doors for the Dalit community, especially women.
As Dalit leader CB Gahatraj states:
"It’s not caste, gender, or poverty that defines a person’s worth—but their dreams, struggle, and determination. Smriti’s story redefines what is possible."
