Then she dismayed modern India by claiming she had experienced a `` divine premonition '' that she was destined for higher office from a long dead spiritual guru . India ' first female president , official results on YouTube . President Gandhi 's supporters are calling victory a boost for women 's rights . Bitter election campaign was marked by controversy . 72-year - old Patil was the ruling coalition 's nominee for mainly ceremonial post .
India ' first female president , official results on YouTube . President Gandhi 's supporters are calling victory a boost for women 's rights . Bitter election campaign was marked by controversy . 72-year - old Patil was the ruling coalition 's nominee for mainly ceremonial post .