More than a century ago, there was a woman, Annette Kellerman, who thought she could live her life according to her own terms. It was not the time when women were supposed to do so. It was when non-conformity was dangerous unlike now when going against the rules is a style statement.

This Australian swimmer refused to wear pantaloons and pioneered a revolution in bathing suits for women. She is frequently credited for conceiving synchronised swimming as a sport, as she performed water ballet for the first time at the New York Hippodrome.

She was also the first woman who attempted to swim across the English Channel, although she did not manage to be successful. She was probably destined to be known for something more significant like standing up for women's rights. Kellerman got arrested for indecency when she wore a fitted one-piece bathing suit in 1907 at the Revere Beach. Later, she started her own brand of swimwear called "Annette Kellerman."

There was an interesting study in 1908 when Dr Dudley researched about the physical attributes of 3000 women. Kellerman was dubbed as the "Perfect Woman," as she had striking resemblance with the physical features of Venus de Milo.

Kellerman acted in 12 films; however, only one of them, "Venus of the South Seas," has survived till date. She was also the first to flaunt one swimmable mermaid outfit in 1911. She was the first noteworthy actress who appeared nude in the million dollar film called "A Daughter of the Gods." Interestingly enough, it was the time when a woman hardly ever undressed even in the presence of her husband.

She was one of the very first legends who inspired women in the generations to come to stand up for their rights. She led by example, as she had the courage to stand for what she believed in.

New York