‘When Physics overwhelmed me, I turned to novels: That led me to an IIT’ | Life in an IIT

Ahalya's love for reading often overshadowed her struggles with Physics during her Class 12 years. This habit of turning to novels provided her with a sense of purpose and clarity that she found elusive in her academic pursuits. Born in Theni, Tamil Nadu, Ahalya's father is a defense civilian who worked with the Indian Navy, causing her to move schools frequently throughout her childhood. This constant change of environment taught her adaptability and resilience.

During her Class 11 and 12 studies, Ahalya was enrolled in the Computer Science stream, taking mathematics, physics, chemistry, and English. Despite her parents' hopes for her to pursue a technical degree, Ahalya's passion for language and reading led her down a different path. After completing her Class 12, she opted for a BA in English, a decision that surprised many, including her parents.

This choice led Ahalya to pursue a Masters in English at NIT Tiruchirappalli, where she encountered Biolinguistics, the interdisciplinary study of the biological and cognitive foundations of language acquisition and usage. This newfound field inspired her to write her Masters dissertation and eventually led her to prepare for and pass the UGC NET exam for assistant professorship. She then took the Junior Research Fellowship examination, which she also cleared.

Ahalya applied to only one institution for her PhD - IIT Hyderabad, drawn to its humanities department and its unique program at the intersection of language and cognitive science. The rigorous admission process, including a proposal and interview, tested her resolve. However, Ahalya's determination prevailed, and she joined IIT Hyderabad in July 2025.

At IIT Hyderabad, Ahalya's research focuses on the theoretical aspects of language and cognition, specifically examining the relationship between word order in sentences and their internal connectivity. Her work aims to explain how humans effortlessly produce and comprehend complex sentences, an ability that most take for granted. While her research is primarily theoretical, relying on academic journals and a notebook, she also leads the Visit IITH club, which organizes campus tours for prospective students.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Ahalya enjoys crocheting, cycling, and walking. She even cycled around 50 kilometers within the IIT campus on Independence Day. On evenings when her work allows, she enjoys walking towards the water reservoir near the convention center, watching the sunset over the water - a moment of serenity amidst her demanding academic life.