Ruma lived in a village in Tamil Nadu and wanted to go to school but her family couldn't afford it. She taught herself by listening to classes and doing chores. When her family's finances improved, she convinced her father to let her take an entrance exam. Ruma scored full marks and was admitted to the school. She worked hard and achieved high ranks in her exams. Ruma eventually became a doctor and used her skills to help her village by providing free treatment and setting up profitable local industries.