Arati Saha, born on 24 September 1940 in Kolkata, became the first Indian and Asian woman to swim across the English Channel. On 29 September 1959, she swam from Cape Gris Nez, France to Sandgate, England, covering 42 miles in 16 hours and 20 minutes. She proudly hoisted the Indian flag upon finishing her swim. In recognition of her achievement, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 1960.

A passionate swimmer since childhood, Arati won 22 state-level competitions between 1945 and 1951, including setting an all-India record in 1949. She also represented India at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Arati passed away from jaundice on 23 August 1994. In 1998, the Government of India honored her legacy by issuing a postage stamp in her memory.