Rajani Pandit, often known as the first woman private investigator, has an inspiring story that will leave you mesmerized. Also known as Lady James Bond of India or Desi Sherlock, Rajani’s story will inspire you to fight for your dreams, no matter how difficult they are.
While sharing her inspiring story with HoB, Rajani mentioned:
“I was in college when I solved my first case. I worked part-time in my first year as an office clerk. A woman who I worked with told me about the thefts in her house. She had her eyes on her new daughter-in-law but had no proof. So I offered to investigate. I was always a curious person–with my father in CID, I had learned the art of a thorough investigation. I set up a watch across the street. I found out that this lady’s son was actually the thief. When questioned, he admitted to the thefts… after that, my career took off! I was 22 years old when I started.”
She further added how she became India’s first female detective:
“Through word of mouth, people started tracking me down to help them solve their cases. I was approached by news channels and papers–I became India’s first female detective–it was unheard of! And it’s a tough job, my parents didn’t even know until much later! Once my dad found out, he reminded me of how dangerous this profession is– but if he could do it, so could I! So I continued with my investigations.”
Rajani Pandit never married because she does not want to choose between her marriage and job. She once said that she has never felt the need to start a family. She wants to help society to find out the truth to make a better India.
Talking about her toughest case, she mentioned:
“My toughest case was gathering proof for a murder investigation. Both the husband and the son were murdered, but with no proof as to who did it. For 6 months, I went undercover as a maid to live with the woman who was suspected of being the murderer. When she fell sick, I took care of her and gained her trust slowly. But once, during pin-drop silence, my recorder made a ‘click’ sound. And that’s when she started doubting me. She refrained me from going out at all. Then one day, the hitman who she hired, came to pay her a visit. That’s when I knew it was my chance. So I cut my foot with a knife and told them that I had to go out to get bandaged. I ran out, went to an STD booth, and called the client to come home with the police. They were both arrested that day!”
Talking about her achievements, she concluded:
“I’ve solved around 80,000 cases since. I’ve written two books, won countless awards, and been featured by news channels. I’ve also received a few threats here and there–but my work is clean, my mind is clear and my courage is unwavering. But most of all…I’m a homegrown, desi Sherlock — how’s that for a Resumé opener?”
At IFORHER, we are in awe of Rajani Pandit and her courage to shatter the norms. We hope her inspiring story would encourage many others to fight for their dreams.
