Last updated on: November 29, 2025
Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri was much more than Priyanka Chopra’s grandmother. She was a freedom fighter, a nurse, a social worker, and leader who deeply cared for people. Full of courage, full of service, her life inspired her family and many others around her. Even today, her story is remembered with respect and love.
Quick Facts About Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri
| Full Name | Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri |
| Birthdate
Died |
1922
2016 |
| Occupation | Freedom Fighter, Nurse, Social Activist, Former MLA |
| Husband/Wife | Dr. Manohar Kishan Akhouri |
| Education | Nursing training in Kerala |
| Age | 94 (at the time of her death) |
| Parents | Born into a Malayali Jacobite Syrian Christian family (names not known) |
| Grandchildren | Priyanka Chopra, Siddharth Chopra |
| Children | Dr. Madhu Chopra and others |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Roots
Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri was born as Mary John in Kumarakom, Kerala. She hailed from the Malayali Jacobite Syrian Christian community. Her childhood was simple and peaceful. She grew up in a home that valued kindness, hard work, and faith.
When young, Mary trained to be a nurse to serve her country and help the people in it. It was this dream that guided her through life.
Moving to Bihar and Marriage
She moved to Bihar for work after completing her training in nursing. This changed her future. In Bihar, she met Dr. Manohar Kishan Akhouri, a respected medical doctor and politician. They soon married.
After marriage, Mary John became Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri. She stepped into a larger world of public service and social change. Her husband was active in the freedom movement and the Congress party. Their home was full of discussions about society, politics, and the future of India. This environment encouraged her to join public service too.
Her Work as a Social Activist
She cared a lot for the poor. She believed that each child was entitled to food, protection, and education. Most of her time was spent in slums. She assisted in the establishment of food programs, schooling aid, and other forms of aid for underprivileged children.
She was regarded by all in her community as a strong but kind woman. And she was a guide and helper to many people. Her work made a real difference in the lives of hundreds of families.
Stepping Into Politics
Her passion for helping people soon grew into a larger mission. With strong support from the Indian National Congress, and even from Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, she entered politics. In 1967, she contested the Jamshedpur East Assembly seat.
She won the election and became the first woman to hold that seat at the time. This was quite an accomplishment, especially in an era when very few women ran for public office. She inspired many young women to dream bigger by winning the election.
Since there were mid-term elections, her time as an MLA was short. Even after leaving politics in 1969, she continued with social work for the people. Her dedication never stopped.
A Strong Influence on Her Family
Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri was the mother of Dr. Madhu Chopra, who later became an Army doctor and businesswoman. She was also the grandmother to Priyanka Chopra Jonas, one of the most successful Indian actresses in the world.
Priyanka was very attached to her grandmother. She would speak about her wisdom and strength constantly. Priyanka lived with her grandparents during parts of her childhood. That time shaped her values and confidence. Madhu Jyotsna taught her to stay grounded, work hard, and stay connected to her roots.
READ ALSO: Priyanka Chopra Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Final Years and Legacy
Madhu Jyotsna Akhouri lived a long and meaningful life. She died in 2016 when she was 94 years old. According to her wish, her last rites were performed in Kerala, the land of her birth.
Her life is remembered for her bravery, her kindness, and her service. She broke barriers as a woman in politics. She supported many children and families. And she raised a family that continues to inspire millions. Today, her story reminds one that a single individual’s integrity, bravery, and effort can reverberate across generations.
