At 11, Payal Jangid defied child marriage in her village of Heensla, Rajasthan. Twice elected Bal Sarpanch under the Bal Mitra Gram program, she helped 76 children return to school, stopped six child marriages, and fought for dignity and education. Her work has taken her to Sweden for the World’s Children’s Prize, earned her the Goalkeepers Award (2019) and Reebok’s “Fit to Fight” award, and global recognition as a youth leader. Now 21, she is pursuing a B.Ed., preparing for the Rajasthan Administrative Services, and teaching village children in her spare time.

For Thangammal, समर्पण is muscle memory. At 80, she still free-dives off Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, sari-clad, holding her breath for minutes to harvest seaweed that sustains her family. She follows a 12-day lunar cycle to protect marine life and rotates across 21 islands to ease pressure on reefs. Keeper of generational knowledge, she mentors younger women in diving, sales, and survival, while joining women-led groups to share boats and risks in protected waters. With cloth-wrapped fingers, T-shirts over saris, and rubber slippers, she makes this hard work a little safer. Her life is a story of समर्पण – to her community, her sisterhood, and the sea.

At 55, Ruby Pareek from Dausa, Rajasthan, has spent two decades transforming farming and lives. After losing her father to cancer, she turned to organic methods, determined to stop “feeding poison” to the next generation. With NABARD’s support in 2006, Ruby expanded her work beyond her own fields, freely sharing earthworms, compost sprays, and techniques, especially with women. Her efforts not only improved farms but also gave women the courage to step beyond purdah and earn livelihoods. From a single vermicomposting unit, her mission has reached over 26,000 people, including 11,000 women. Today at her Didwana center, she continues to grow more than crops—she nurtures dignity, empowerment, and faith in the soil itself.

Since 2002, Aparajita Datta has worked in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, discovering the Arunachal macaque, leading the first wildlife census, and helping tribes shift from hunting to education and healthcare. Author of 90+ publications and field guides, she has saved hornbills, and fought for the endangered leaf deer and black barking deer. A wildlife ecologist with the Nature Conservation Foundation, she is a Whitley Award winner and Co-Chair of the IUCN Hornbill Specialist Group. In every hornbill’s return and every tree restored, her koshish lives on. Aparajita lives on.

As Executive Director of Century Plyboards (India) Ltd., Mr. Keshav Bhajanka has played a pivotal role in expanding one of India’s most trusted manufacturing brands through innovation, operational excellence, and strategic growth. Equally passionate about inclusive progress, he believes that businesses thrive when communities do. His presence on the Aparajita Council reflects his commitment to leadership that creates lasting opportunities and meaningful social impact.

A pioneer in Indian manufacturing, Mr. Madan Mohan Mohanka has built Tega Industries into a globally respected leader in mining and mineral processing solutions. His entrepreneurial vision has transformed an Indian enterprise into an international success story while remaining rooted in innovation, integrity, and sustainable growth. Through his association with the Aparajita Council, he continues to champion enterprise that creates enduring value for both industry and society.

An accomplished business leader with distinguished academic credentials from Princeton University and Harvard Business School, Mr. Kaul has led Nicco Engineering Services Ltd. while contributing extensively to industry through organisations including CII, FICCI, and the Indian Chamber of Commerce. His leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to institution-building, innovation, and responsible growth. At Aparajita, he brings a valuable perspective on creating businesses and communities that thrive together.

One of India’s foremost neurologists, Dr. Hrishikesh Kumar has dedicated his career to advancing neuroscience through clinical excellence, research, and education. As Vice Chairman, Director of Research, and Head of Neurology at the Institute of Neurosciences Kolkata, his work has transformed the understanding and treatment of movement disorders and Parkinson’s disease. His presence on the Aparajita Council reinforces our commitment to health, scientific advancement, and compassionate care.

As Managing Director of Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Ram Sharma continues the legacy of one of India’s most respected Ayurvedic institutions while embracing innovation for a global future. Under his leadership, the organisation has expanded its reach without losing sight of its commitment to authenticity, research, and holistic wellness. His association with the Aparajita Council reflects a shared belief that lasting well-being is built by honouring both tradition and progress.

After a successful corporate career, Mr. Ritesh Bawri chose a different path—helping people reclaim their health through preventive care, nutrition, and sustainable lifestyle change. As Founder of Breathe Again, he has empowered thousands to embrace healthier lives through science-backed wellness practices and behavioural transformation. His work reminds us that true success begins with well-being, making him a valued voice on the Aparajita Council.

For Rukshana A. Kapadia, food has always been about people, culture, and belonging. As co-founder of Ammolite Ideators, she has spent over a decade helping restaurants and hospitality brands discover authentic stories while championing diversity and inclusion across the industry. A proud advocate for LGBTQ+ representation and a long-standing member of the Aparajita family, she continues to inspire meaningful conversations around identity, creativity, and belonging.

Business leader, sports administrator, and advocate for women’s participation in sport, Ms. Sanaya Mehta brings together enterprise and purpose with remarkable ease. As Vice President of Rugby India and Director of Selvel One Group, she has worked to expand the reach of rugby while creating greater opportunities for women to lead both on and off the field. Her presence on the Aparajita Council reflects a deep commitment to empowering future generations through sport, leadership, and inclusion.

A distinguished Naval Aviator with more than 2,500 flying hours, Commander Mrinmoy Ghosh has served the nation with courage across critical military operations and maritime security missions. Today, as Commanding Officer of 2 Bengal Naval NCC, he is shaping the next generation of leaders by instilling discipline, resilience, and a spirit of service. His association with the Aparajita Council reflects the values of integrity, leadership, and nation-building.

Richa Agarwal has reimagined Kolkata’s cultural landscape by transforming the Kolkata Centre for Creativity into one of India’s most vibrant spaces for contemporary art and dialogue. As CEO of Emami Art, she has consistently championed emerging artists, particularly women, through exhibitions, mentorships, and creative platforms that encourage bold new voices. A cherished member of the Aparajita family, she continues to enrich our journey with her vision, generosity, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of art.

For Sister Supriya, leadership begins within. As a Rajyoga teacher and HQ Coordinator at the Rajyoga Thought Laboratory of the Brahma Kumaris, she has guided countless individuals towards greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and values-based living. Through her teachings, she continues to inspire personal transformation rooted in compassion and inner strength. Her presence on the Aparajita Council reminds us that meaningful change begins with a peaceful and empowered mind.

An Aparajita awardee since 2018 and one of our strongest champions, Ms. Vinita Bajoria exemplifies leadership that combines business excellence with purpose. As Chairperson of Nicco Cables and a respected voice across corporate and academic institutions, including the Board of Governors at IIM Kozhikode, she has consistently advocated for greater opportunities for women in leadership. Her continued association with Aparajita reflects her unwavering commitment to building a future where more women lead, inspire, and thrive.

An educationist, entrepreneur, and institution-builder, Mr. Miraj Shah has played a defining role in strengthening The Bhawanipur Education Society College into one of Eastern India’s most dynamic centres of higher learning. His commitment to nurturing young talent and bridging academia with industry reflects a deep belief in education as a catalyst for transformation. As a member of the Aparajita Council, he brings invaluable insight into leadership, youth development, and the power of creating opportunities for future generations.

A visionary entrepreneur, Mr. M. L. Lohia transformed Jupiter Wagons into one of India’s leading rail freight and mobility companies, contributing significantly to the nation’s infrastructure growth. Alongside his industrial achievements, he has consistently championed education and women’s sports, believing that lasting progress is built through equal opportunity. His association with the Aparajita Council reflects a lifelong commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening India’s future through enterprise and social responsibility.

For over three decades, Mr. Utsav Parekh has helped shape Eastern India’s financial landscape through visionary investments and institution-building. As Chairman of Nexome Capital Markets Ltd. and a driving force behind landmark initiatives such as Bengal Aerotropolis, he has consistently believed in creating long-term value for both business and society. A steadfast supporter of Aparajita for nearly a decade, he continues to strengthen our mission with his conviction, generosity, and enduring belief in women-led change.

A pioneering scientist, educator, and institution-builder, Prof. Anuradha Lohia has spent her career proving that intellectual excellence is at its most powerful when guided by compassion. From leading Presidency University as Vice Chancellor to establishing the Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance and now serving as Chairperson of Manovikas Kendra, she has shaped institutions that nurture knowledge, inclusion, and human potential. Her presence on the Aparajita Council brings a rare blend of scientific rigor, empathy, and visionary leadership—qualities that continue to inspire generations of changemakers.

Madhu Neotia has dedicated herself to preserving India’s creative soul. As the founder of The India Story, she has built one of the country’s most respected platforms celebrating design, craft, and cultural heritage, while also contributing to the hospitality and healthcare ventures of the Ambuja Neotia Group. An Aparajita awardee from our very first edition, she has remained one of our strongest guiding forces ever since. Her wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in women’s voices continue to shape Aparajita’s journey with grace and purpose.

A respected industrialist and philanthropist, Mr. Om Jalan has led Bengal Energy Ltd. to become one of Eastern India’s leading producers of metallurgical coke and power solutions. While driving industrial growth and innovation, he has remained equally committed to creating opportunities that uplift communities and improve lives. His presence on the Aparajita Council reflects his belief that meaningful leadership is measured not only by business success but also by the positive impact it leaves on society.

At the helm of a third-generation conglomerate, Piyush Dhoot leads the Dhoot Group with vision and stability. With wide-ranging influence across Eastern India and metros like Mumbai and Gurgaon, the group has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s real estate and infrastructure landscape. For over a decade, Dhoot Group has stood beside Aparajita—not just as a sponsor or advisor, but as a steady pillar committed to our growth and belief in meaningful recognition.

A prominent legal figure with deep expertise in corporate law, R.N. Jhunjhunwala is especially known for his work in mergers & acquisitions and dispute resolution. As a senior partner at Khaitan & Co, one of India’s leading law firms, he has been an integral part of the firm since 1990. We are honoured to welcome his legal acumen to Aparajita—ensuring fairness, transparency, and compliance at every step of the process.

Shri S.K. Tulsiyan, founder of S.K. Tulsiyan & Co., leads a distinguished team of chartered accountants, former revenue officers, and legal experts. The firm is widely respected for its counsel on complex tax matters. His insights will be imperative in upholding the financial integrity of the Aparajita initiative—anchoring the process in rigor, accountability, and trust.

With nearly two decades of experience, Devina Swarup leads strategy and direction at Paharpur 3P, the flexible packaging manufacturing arm of the Paharpur Group. Under her leadership, the once loss-making unit has grown 5x, become cash-flow positive and now funds its own capacity expansions-including the construction of a new factory in South India. Today, the company is recognised as one of India’s foremost flexible packaging companies. Swarup also actively manages the Group’s equity portfolio, focusing on generational wealth stewardship, sustainable returns and discovering new opportunities whilst staying aligned with the group’s long term legacy and values.

A first-generation entrepreneur, Smita Chatterji serves as the Founder and Group CEO of Centreax Group. For over two decades, she has led Centreax Technologies – an agile IT firm delivering cutting edge, cloud-based digital solutions across banking, insurance, agri-tech and education etc. Her work has powered core process automation, robust high end system architecture and solutions and digital transformation as well as migration and maintenance for enterprises and institutions alike. She was the first Indian woman to pioneer a sustainability framework in the tea sector using digital traceability. Through her work with Centreax Textiles, Smita ji combines enterprise with ethics to promote artisan empowerment through e-commerce and technology-driven innovation.

Sriranjani Joshi has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between education and employment for the Indian youth. As a director at the George Group of Colleges, she works to integrate higher education with skill-based training. A strategic leader, she has led the establishment and transformation of over six institutions, launching career-focussed, industry-aligned programmes that prepare students for the modern workforce. With over 20 years of experience, she is a recognised voice in education policy and social impact and has held key roles across prestigious chambers of commerce.

With over five decades of experience, Aloka Mitra has dedicated her life to social service. As Chairperson of the Women’s Interlink Foundation, she runs two well-known shelters for homeless, rescued and orphan children and has established over fifty centres for the children of sex workers and street children. A pioneering social worker, she has consistently been leading efforts to campaign against and combat child labour and women and child trafficking in West Bengal.

Since 2008, Sharda Radhakrishnan has been single-handedly running the Chhaya Animal Hospital for street animals in Kolkata, offering healthcare to abandoned and injured animals. A former biology teacher at Ashoka Hall Higher Secondary School, Sharda left at age 49 to establish her own veterinary hospital that would help rehabilitate thousands of animals. For close to two decades, she has led the hospital, going beyond offering merely medical care and helping provide these animals with a home.

Hailing from New Hasimara, a tea garden region in North Bengal, Sukla Debnath got to witness firsthand how young girls and women from her area were deceived and sold into sex and human trafficking rings. Using her own income, Sukla started training women as beauticians- enabling them to find safer livelihoods. At just 35, she is fondly known as the “Mother of the Tea Gardens”. For near 2 decades she has been runing a grassroots- level campaign creating awareness around human trafficking, teaching young girls how to protect themselves and seek aid. Today, she has trained over and given hope to an entire community.

Alisha is the fourth-generation owner of Saldanha Bakery, a Kolkata institution that has been led by women since its inception nearly a century ago. A Le Cordon Bleu trained chef and a past winner of the World’s Super Extraordinary Cake Design Competition, Alisha has used her culinary expertise to spearhead the introduction of French macarons, meringues and other newer items on the menu at affordable prices. She has done this all while retaining Saldanha’s classic crowd favourites and maintaining the bakery’s old world charm.

Jayatri Biswas is the Founder and Chef at the Fat Little Penguin (Now Mischief and &co.), an artisanal ice cream brand known for their signature ice creams. A Lavonne trained pastry chef with global experience, Biswas has played a key role in re-imagining and changing how Kolkata consumes iced desserts. In a harsh industry, she has managed to create a chef-led kitchen that prioritizes employee welfare and has built a 90% women-led team, training over 20 young women through different foundations and social organisations.

A Le Cordon Bleu- trained chef and barista, Zareen is the founder of the popular Zee’s Coffeeshop in Ballygunge. Known for its hot chocolate, cold brew and curated events, Zee’s helps bring people together over music, community and coffee. She is also the founder of Bagan Farm, a family-run farm that helps deliver organic, top-quality seasonal produce throughout Bengal. Zareen also curates and hosts seasonal culinary experiences at Bagan, which doubles as a restaurant during the winter months. An interdisciplinary creative, she is passionate about design and photography.

Kavita Kajaria is the founder of 8Finity Enterprises, a purpose-driven brand that transforms waste items into a range of stylish fashion and lifestyle products. Her organisation works with a wide variety of waste materials, using them as a base to create unique embellishments. The brand recently received India’s Best Product Design Award, honouring their commitment to sustainable innovation.  She has created a women-led team, employing skilled female artisans from marginalised communities. Further, she also leads Green Pari- an initiative which stitches and distributes cloth sanitary pads to women in underserved areas, promoting menstrual hygiene and well-being. She works extensively with Jal Pari- an organisation that has so far helped over 5 rural Bengali villages gain access to clean drinking water.

Lata Bhatia began her zero-waste journey in 2016. She gradually moved away from disposables and adopted composting, recycling, and solar energy at home. Her kitchen waste feeds her terrace garden, and she follows a minimalist lifestyle. She ran a planned zero-waste store in Kolkata until recently and continues to advise organisations and raise awareness on sustainable living.

As the co-founder and CEO of Hulladek Recycling, Sriyam Mall has spent nearly a decade pioneering how e-waste is managed across Eastern India. A global thinker and innovator, she has led Hulladek in championing a door-to-door e-waste collection process which extends to business organisations as well across India, ensuring the waste goes in for recycling. From ideating and piloting a new programme on plastic waste prevention to helping expand the business’s Extended Producer Responsibility segment, sustainability is at the forefront of all her work. Throughout her career, Sriyam has successfully fostered a culture of environmental stewardship and quietly driven change in communities across Eastern India.