Category Archives: News

From Impact to Inspiration: DNA Women Achievers Awards Season 3 to celebrate India’s Women visionaries

The city of Nawabs is set to witness a powerful celebration of leadership, innovation, and transformation as the DNA Women Achievers Awards 2025 – Season 3, powered by Z News, takes centre stage in Lucknow on 27th June 2025. A landmark initiative that goes beyond recognition, this edition of the awards stands as a national tribute to women who are driving India’s growth story with courage, creativity, and commitment. With the powerful theme ‘Honouring Women Leaders for Their Contributions to Innovation, Impact, and Growth’, this on-ground event will spotlight women whose extraordinary work continues to shape industries, uplift communities, and influence the course of the nation. The ceremony will be graced by Shri Brajesh Pathak, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, as the Chief Guest, reinforcing the state’s dedication to encouraging inclusive development and celebrating empowered voices.

Season 3 of DNA Women Achievers Awards 2025 looks forward towards honouring achievers across 20 distinctive categories, encompassing fields such as governance, healthcare, science, education, entrepreneurship, technology, arts, and social innovation. The presence of iconic personalities as Guests of Honour will elevate the event’s prestige. The celebrated lineup includes Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi, MLA Aditi Singh, actor Akshara Singh—each a testament to the diverse spectrum of powerful women shaping our society.

Speaking about the platform’s growing impact, Mr. Sushant S Mohan, Chief Editor and Business Manager at IndiaDotcom Digital, said, “The DNA Women Achievers Awards is a bold declaration that women are not just part of India’s growth story—they are leading it. This platform is about power, purpose, and progress. It recognises women who are breaking barriers, shaping industries, and transforming lives. By celebrating their achievements, we are igniting a nationwide movement of inspiration, action, and unstoppable leadership.”

Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Rohit Panwar, General Manager – Strategy, Zee Media Corporation Limited, further highlighted, “Women today are not just participating in India’s development—they are leading it. The DNA Women Achievers Awards is our effort to celebrate this leadership, spark conversations that matter, and build a sustained ecosystem of recognition and visibility. This is not just about celebration—it’s about creating a legacy of empowerment.”

Over the years, the DNA Women Achievers Awards has grown into one of India’s most respected recognitions dedicated to women’s excellence. More than just a ceremony, it serves as a dynamic forum for celebrating changemakers, amplifying unheard voices, and inspiring a new generation to rise. As Lucknow prepares to host the 2025 edition, this grand event promises to be a vibrant confluence of purpose, power, and progress—one that will leave a lasting impact on hearts, minds, and policy.

Frenchie X by VIP Clothing Limited Debuts in Kerala, Strengthening the Brand’s Southern Stronghold

Launch follows successful roll‑outs in Goa, Mumbai, Pune and Delhi; premium innerwear line now reaches 200 + outlets across the above mentioned cities.

25th June 2025, Kerala: VIP Clothing Limited, India’s heritage innerwear company, has announced the Kerala debut of its premium men’s innerwear range Frenchie X, further widening the brand’s national footprint. With this latest expansion, Frenchie X collections will be available in more than 40 key multi‑brand outlets and large‑format stores across Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram and tier‑II towns, taking the line’s overall presence to over 140 stores nationwide.

“Kerala has long been one of VIP Clothing’s most vibrant markets, known for its discerning consumers and strong brand loyalty,” said Sunil Pathare, Chairman & Managing Director, VIP Clothing Limited. “After the encouraging response in Goa and our rapid scale‑up across Mumbai, Pune and Delhi, bringing Frenchie X to Kerala was the natural next step. Shoppers here can now experience premium fabrics, futuristic waistbands and fresh colour stories—everyday essentials that combine comfort with style.”

Meeting demand, online and offline

The Kerala launch is part of VIP Clothing’s dual‑channel growth blueprint: expanding shop‑floor visibility while accelerating e‑commerce and quick‑commerce tie‑ups. Earlier this year the company partnered with Swiggy Instamart and Zepto to deliver select Frenchie X styles in under an hour, a service that will now cover major Kerala pincodes.

Innovation‑led portfolio

Frenchie X features micro‑modal and cotton‑elastane blends, moisture‑management finishes and signature gradient waist elastics tailored for India’s humid climate—attributes that resonate with Kerala’s coastal consumer base. The range spans briefs, trunks, vests and gym vests, each offered in multiple colourways.

Former President Ram Nath Kovind to Inaugurate National Conference of CA Students 2025 in Kolkata

Kolkata, 25th June, 2025: The Eastern India Chartered Accountants Students’ Association (EICASA), jointly with the Eastern India Regional Council (EIRC), is set to host its signature annual event – the National Conference of CA Students 2025 – on 28th and 29th June at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, New Town, Kolkata, organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), Board of Studies (Operations).

Centred on the inspiring theme “RRR Returns – Reskill, Resolve, Rejoice”, the two-day event promises a dynamic mix of learning and celebration with 4,500+ CA students participating from the Eastern Region and beyond.

The event will be graced by Hon’ble Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Former President of India, as Chief Guest, and Shri Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, Vice Chairman & MD, Emami Ltd., as Guest of Honour. Also attending will be CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda, Hon’ble President of ICAI, CA. Rohit Ruwatia, Chairman BoS (Operations), CA Sanjib Sanghi, Vice Chairman BoS (Operations), and CA Ravi Kumar Patwa, Council Member, ICAI.

The hosts CA Vishnu K Tulsyan, Chairman, EIRC, and CA Mayur Agrawal, Chairman, EICASA and Vice Chairman, EIRC, along with their team of Regional Council and the able Students’ Association are preparing for a landmark event, including an attempt to set a World Record for the largest Ethics lecture in the World Book of Records, London.

Paper presenters from across the country will showcase insightful presentations on behavioural finance, decision-making, and evolving roles of finance professionals. The speaker lineup spans multiple sectors – from public service and media to corporate and education – including: Shri Faizal Khan (Khan Sir), Dr. Deepak Vohra, Dr. Anand Ranganathan, Capt. Raghu Raman, Dr. Vijender Singh Chauhan.

Equally powerful will be the sessions led by young achievers and digital educators who have made significant impact in the fields of finance education and entrepreneurship. The presence of CA Bhanwar Borana, CA Aakash Kandoi, CA Yashwanth Mangal, CA Subham Singhal, CA Sakchi Jain, CA Yashwanth Mangal, CA Arihant Baid, and CA Isha Jaiswal will bring relatability and relevance to the stage and will enhance student relatability and insight.

To add vibrancy, the event also features performances and interactions by Shri Ravi Gupta, Mentalist Karan Singh Magic and Actor-writer Gopal Dutt.

A testament to the excellence of EIRC and EICASA, this meticulously planned conference is not just an academic gathering, but a celebration of youth empowerment, professional excellence, and lifelong learning in an ever-evolving world.

Experience A Dream Monsoon Gateway At Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar, 25th June 2025: When the monsoon hits Mahabaleshwar, it takes on an entirely new look. The mornings are misty, nature wears a vibrant green hue, and everything seems oh so serene. Time seems to just slow down, asking you to take a pause and indulge in the scintillating beauty of the hill station. If you have been seeking that kind of a break, there’s no place better than Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar.

Nestled in the spectacular Sahyadri hills, right above Lingmala Waterfalls, and overlooking the Venna River, this picturesque escape offers you sights that will take your breath away. Whether you’re watching the clouds roll in from your balcony or just relishing the view with a warm cup of tea, this place will surely offer you unparalleled peace.

Settle into your own private one-bedroom villa with a personal plunge pool located just outside your door. Surrounded by lush greenery and soft mist, this place offers you a perfectly intimate setting to kick back and unwind. With thoughtfully designed accommodations that include valley-view garden rooms and mountain-facing ones with balconies, you get to revel in the monsoon magic while enjoying the utmost luxury.

Making the gateway a little sweeter is our Monsoon Gateway Offer which includes –

• Daily buffet breakfast
• Dinner at our signature Berry Library
• One-time complimentary minibar
• INR 500 spa discount per treatment
• 15% off on food and soft beverages
• Evening tea/coffee service between 4–5 PM
• A complimentary bottle of house wine on arrival.

If you are in the mood for a little excursion, you can step out and explore Wilson Point and Kate’s Point which are located just minutes away.

We take pride in our top-tier hospitality, immaculate service, and delectable meals that keep you wanting more. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a trip with friends, or a retreat with family, our Monsoon Gateway Offer is just the excuse you need to stop and enjoy the beautiful moments in life.

Protean eGov Technologies Appoints Ranbheer Singh Dhariwal as Group Head – Social Security and Welfare

Mumbai, June 24, 2025: Protean eGov Technologies Ltd. (formerly NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Ltd.), a pioneer in building Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and delivering population-scale e-Governance solutions, has appointed Mr. Ranbheer Singh Dhariwal as Group Head – Social Security & Welfare (GH-SSW).

Ranbheer Singh Dhariwal

In his new role, Mr. Dhariwal will lead Protean’s Central Recordkeeping Agency (CRA) under Social Security & Welfare vertical, serving as CRA Head & Principal Officer under PFRDA regulations. He will be responsible for driving strategic growth, enhancing product development for NPS, APY & UPS, strengthening operational efficiency, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Speaking on the appointment, Mr. Suresh Sethi, MD & CEO of Protean eGov Technologies, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Ranbheer to our team. With his extensive experience in pension fund management and operations, Ranbheer is well-positioned to drive Protean’s mission towards creating a pensioned society and ensuring a secure future for all Indians. Ranbheer’s expertise will be instrumental in leveraging technology to enhance pension coverage, improve user experience, and foster financial security for millions.”

Adding to it, Mr. Ranbheer Singh Dhariwal said, “Retirement planning is critical to financial resilience. I’m honoured to join Protean eGov, an organisation with a legacy of enabling transformative digital infrastructure in India. I look forward to advancing inclusive, scalable pension solutions for millions across the country.”

Mr. Dhariwal was most recently the CEO of Max Life Pension Fund and brings over twenty five years of experience across pension funds, insurance, and BPO services. Protean currently commands a dominant 98% market share in the CRA segment for NPS, APY & UPS.

With India’s pension penetration at just ~3% of GDP, the potential for impact and growth remains significant.

Yara India reaffirms its ongoing commitment to ESG stewardship

June 24th, 2025:  Yara India, a part of Norwegian multinational Yara International – the world’s leading crop nutrition company and a provider of agricultural, industrial, and environmental solutions, today announced the release of its 3rd Sustainability Report 2024, titled “Greener Pathways – Fostering a Nature-Positive Food Future.”

The report highlights Yara India’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, inclusive growth, and agricultural transformation through innovative and sustainable practices. This is Yara India’s third sustainability report, developed in alignment with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Universal Standards 2021 and externally assured by TÜV SÜD South Asia (BIS 14489:1998 and ISO 14001:2015 certified). The report captures the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance across its operations in India and especially manufacturing plant in Babrala, Uttar Pradesh, and community initiatives under Kiran – A Yara India Community Initiative.

Key Highlights from the Report:

· Farmer Engagement: Over 650,000 farmers reached through agronomy sessions and digital platforms like FarmCare and YaraConnect.
· Sustainable Logistics: Shift to rail transport reduced carbon emissions and saved over $205,000 in logistics costs.
· Environmental Performance: Reused 967 million litres of water, afforested 7.4 acres, and targeted a 70,000 tCO₂e reduction in emissions by 2026.
· Gender Inclusion: Targeting 30% senior women leadership by 2025 and empowering women farmers through tailored interventions.

· Yara Leadership Academy: Empowered 699 youth- and women-led MSMEs across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar through a 15-week accredited capacity-building program, equipping them with leadership and business skills to drive sustainable growth.

· Community Impact: Reached 20,000+ students, provided healthcare to 6,389 patients, and supported 379 women’s self-help groups.
· Zero Corruption: Maintained zero confirmed incidents of corruption with 100% of operations assessed for corruption risks, supported by robust policies including Code of Conduct, Anti-Bribery, Whistleblower, and POSH.
· Sustainable Logistics: Shift to rail transport reduced carbon emissions by 27% and saved over $205,000 in logistics costs.

Speaking on the release of the report, Sanjiv Kanwar, Managing Director, Yara South Asia, said, “Sustainability is not just an initiative, but how we operate at Yara. From building resilient farming communities to transforming how food is grown and delivered, Yara India is committed to creating lasting value. This year’s report reflects our focus on empowering smallholder farmers, advancing women in agriculture, and scaling innovations that support a nature-positive food future. The third edition of our Sustainability Report highlights our collective effort to nurture a regenerative agricultural future, empower farmers, and build resilient rural communities. The challenges are real, but so is our resolve to address them with solutions that are inclusive, science-led, and locally rooted.”

Sharing her thoughts on the release of Greener Pathways, May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, said, “Sustainability is a key priority for Norway across all sectors. It is encouraging to see this commitment reflected in the work of Norwegian companies like Yara in India. I congratulate Yara India on the release of its Sustainability Report 2024. This is a testament to Norway’s strong commitment to responsible business and climate action.”

The report also outlines Yara India’s forward-looking initiatives, including expanding regenerative agriculture, adopting vessel-based shipping to further reduce its carbon footprint, and accelerating the adoption of biostimulants and digital technologies.

As India’s agricultural landscape evolves, Yara India reaffirms its role as a catalyst for sustainable transformation, partnering with farmers, communities, and policymakers to create a food system that is climate-smart, inclusive, and resilient.

TCL Celebrates International Olympic Day with Donors’ Wall Unveiling at Olympic Museum

24 June, 2025: As part of its first global celebration of Olympic Day as a Worldwide Olympic Partner, TCL was honoured in a ceremony on June 22 by being added to the Donors’ Wall at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland. Recognized for its contribution of smart devices and display solutions, including LED displays, smart interactive tablets and other products, TCL’s donation will help to empower the development of sports and culture through innovative technology.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) including President Thomas Bach, President-elect Kirsty Coventry, and Angelita Teo, Olympic Museum Director, as well as Kevin Wang, Chief Operating Officer of TCL Technology. A commemorative marble stone, engraved with TCL’s logo, was unveiled as a permanent addition to the wall, which honours organisations that have made outstanding contributions to the Olympic Museum.

Speaking at the unveiling, Kevin Wang said, “This donation reflects alignment between the Olympic spirit of ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger—Together’ and TCL’s own commitment to ‘Inspire Greatness’. Together, we strive to motivate people around the world, encouraging them to dare to be extraordinary. By enhancing the Olympic Museum’s technology capabilities, we aspire to enrich the experience for visitors and immerse them in the rich legacy of the Olympic Games.”

The unveiling follows TCL becoming the latest Worldwide Olympic Partner, with celebrations for Olympic Day further demonstrating its dedication to sporting culture, sustainable development and technological innovation within the Olympic Movement. As a relevant partner in the IOC’s Olympic AI Agenda, TCL is set to enhance the action both on-site and at-home, including “Athlete Moments” that support athletes by connecting them with loved ones during competitions. TCL’s products will also elevate the experience for both fans and athletes, from digital displays at the Olympic Games to household appliances in the Olympic Village.

IOC President Thomas Bach said: “To our friends from TCL, our partnership has begun so well. Our founder, Pierre de Coubertin, said Olympism is a way of life, blending sport and culture. Today you are joining the Olympic Museum. You are supporting museums around the world; and with today’s commemorative stone unveiling, you are in great company. Thank you to our friends from TCL and we are looking forward to a great partnership. Thanks for joining the Olympic Museum and the TOP Programme – all the best to you, TCL, and all the best for our cooperation.”

Inauguration of new IOC President is a new Olympic milestone

Further extending this collaboration, TCL was invited to witness the historic inauguration of Kirsty Coventry as the 10^th IOC President on June 23, with Bach becoming IOC Honorary Life President. Coventry’s groundbreaking leadership as the first female and first African IOC President marks a new chapter for the Olympic Movement. It also resonates with TCL’s ‘TCLforHer’ initiative, a platform advocating for women’s global visibility and empowerment in every aspect of their lives through technology and culture.

IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry said: “It’s truly an honour to be here with you all today. To the TCL family, thank you so much for this incredible donation. You told me that moving fast is something in the TCL spirit, and that is definitely something in the DNA of the Olympic Movement. We look forward to moving even faster with you in the future – as President Bach said, ‘the sky is the limit’”.

Celebrating Olympic Values with the Heart of India

To further back its commitment to celebrate sports and global unity, TCL India has also launched a multi-touchpoint campaign around Olympic Day. The initiative features a vibrant Trivia/Quiz Contest for its customers with a chance to win exciting prizes including a TCL washing machine. It has also partnered with prominent Indian athletes such as Lakshay Sen, Bajrang Punia and Sangeeta Phogat to leverage their influence to amplify the brand’s Olympic association and build buzz around cricket’s much-awaited Olympic debut.

The campaign also includes a programmatic and rich media push to ensure high-impact digital visibility across platforms. Additionally, it will feature its brand ambassador and the cricket icon Rohit Sharma will be featured in an exclusive Olympic themed content snippet to energize fans and reinforce TCL’s connection to global sporting excellence.

Global Campaign Ignites Shared Spirit of ‘Inspiring Greatness’ Through Dance

To bring the celebrations to audiences worldwide, TCL also launched its first global campaign marking Olympic Day, inspired by the IOC’s Let’s Move initiative encouraging people everywhere to get active and move together. Featuring a range of social media activations, the campaign includes a dynamic film bridging two future host cities of the Olympic Games and Olympic Winter Games through the power of TCL display technology. Wearing TCL RayNeo AR Glasses, a simultaneous flash mob performance by the acclaimed Urban Theory Dance Crew at Milan Cathedral and the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, connects audiences in Europe and America through innovative street dance and expressive storytelling. As an extension of the brand’s ‘TCLArt’ initiative celebrating the power of artists to evoke emotion and shape the future, this unique activation blurs the lines of the real and virtual worlds, inspiring people to come together and embrace the joy of physical activity.

The Future of Eco-Friendly Decorative Lighting: Trends, Tech and Challenges

Jaipur: “Sustainable lighting is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’—it is the new standard,” says Naman Jain, Founding Member of Lumeil, the premium e-commerce platform that curates’ decorative fixtures for India’s top architects and interior designers. “Designers today want clear information on material origin, repairability, and delivery timelines. Our role is to make that data visible—so a studio in Mumbai can confidently choose a bamboo-and-brass pendant just as easily as a classic crystal chandelier.” 

As the decorative lighting industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, clients continue to demand bold, expressive designs. Global regulations are speeding up the transition: according to the International Energy Agency, replacing all remaining incandescent bulbs with LEDs could cut lighting-related electricity use by up to 90%. But sustainability is not just about energy savings—it is also reshaping the aesthetics of lighting design.

From bamboo and rattan to recycled glass, today’s showrooms highlight organic forms and eco-conscious materials. Some experimental studios are even crafting lampshades from mycelium, a fungus-based material that naturally biodegrades. These new materials appeal to modern sensibilities but also require strict supply-chain oversight to guarantee quality and ethical sourcing.

Another layer of sustainability is emerging through smart lighting. The latest luminaires are equipped with occupancy sensors and machine-learning technology that automatically adjust brightness and color temperature. This not only enhances ambience but significantly reduces energy consumption. Early adopters—including hotels and office spaces—are already reporting double-digit savings and faster WELL certification approvals. Still, designers must balance the environmental cost of embedded electronics with the long-term efficiency gains they provide.

Yet, challenges persist. Sustainable materials often cost more than traditional plastics, recycling systems for mixed-material fixtures are still developing, and reliable sourcing information remains difficult to find.

Jain believes that collaboration and transparency are the way forward. “When manufacturers openly share product lifecycle data, and platforms display it clearly, adoption rises quickly,” he notes.

Lumeil is doing just that. Every eco-conscious product on its platform now includes detailed information like carbon emissions, modularity ratings, and verified delivery timelines. By offering such data at the point of selection, Lumeil helps designers make responsible choices—without slowing down procurement.

The road ahead still has hurdles: bio-material production needs to scale, LED efficiency can improve further, and reverse logistics systems require investment. But the convergence of material science, smart technology, and transparent platforms is creating a real shift.

“The future of decorative lighting won’t be measured in just lumens,” Jain says. “It will be judged by life-cycle impact. Designers who embrace that now will define the aesthetic of tomorrow.” 

With its data-first approach and commitment to highlighting sustainable innovation, Lumeil is turning eco-conscious lighting from a niche preference into the new industry norm—and shaping the next era of interior design in the process.

ITC Maurya Celebrates International Yoga Day with a Soulful Morning of Movement and Mindfulness

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, ITC Maurya hosted a revitalising morning of wellness on 21st June 2025, bringing together guests for a serene Aqua yoga experience at the hotel’s tranquil poolside venue. 

Nestled in the Capital’s exclusive Diplomatic Enclave, offering an enviable view of the green ridge, the experience offered a harmonious blend of moments and mindfulness adding to the sense of calm and rejuvenation. 

With this year’s global theme — “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” — encouraging a deeper connection with oneself, community, and planet, the event had the attendees including wellness enthusiasts social media figures and in-house guests. 

The morning commenced with a grounding Aqua yoga, performed in the hotel’s serene pool, designed to awaken the senses. In synergy with the experience at Kaya Kalp blending timeless traditions with our expertise to leave you in a state of pure tranquility. Offering a blend of movement and stillness surrounded by natural elements and under gentle light, the experience fostered a sense of harmony between body, breath, and environment. 

The session concluded with special breakfast creations by master chefs, highlighting seasonal, local, and nutrient-rich ingredients. From energising cold-pressed juices and antioxidant-packed smoothies to handcrafted granola bowls and traditional delicacies made with millets and healing spices—the menu was a celebration of nourishment rooted in sustainability. 

Aligned with ITC Hotels ethos of Responsible Luxury, the celebration reflected a conscious approach to well-being- one that nurtures the self while remaining rooted in sustainable and mindful living. Rooted in traditional Indian philosophies of health, wellness and inner calm, Kaya Kalp – the Spa opens its doors to the world of Ayurvedic and holistic therapies designed to de-stress and detox while relaxing and rejuvenating every guest. ITC Maurya facilitates the pursuit of holistic well-being & fitness by offering a conducive sleep environment, healthy cuisine offerings, personalized fitness regimes, and exclusive amenities & facilities.

Vedanta Champions Indian Art and Culture with London Debut of ‘We The Women’

New Delhi, June 21, 2025: In a powerful celebration of voice, courage, and culture, We The Women – India’s premier women-led festival will make its landmark UK debut at the iconic Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios in London. Backed by Vedanta Founder & Chairman Anil Agarwal, this milestone edition highlights the group’s steadfast commitment to promoting Indian art & culture, talent, and inclusive storytelling on a global stage.

Curated by acclaimed journalist and author Barkha Dutt, We The Women has, over the years, become one of India’s most impactful cultural movements, spotlighting extraordinary individuals across cinema, public service, science, literature, and more. Following successful editions in Dubai and across India, the London chapter promises a compelling confluence of dialogue, performance, and inspiration.

Anil Agarwal’s vision to transform Riverside Studios into a thriving cultural hub for global Indian voices has now found new resonance through this festival. His long-standing commitment to nurturing talent and giving Indian art a world platform mirrors the essence of We The Women – a celebration of both heritage and progress.

This year’s London edition will feature an extraordinary lineup of speakers- former Union minister Smriti Irani, one of India’s most influential women in public life; to acclaimed filmmaker Karan Johar, the creative force behind some of India’s biggest cinematic hits and a trailblazer in mainstream storytelling; Shashi Tharoor, Indian politician, author, and former diplomat; megastar Kareena Kapoor Khan, an icon of Indian cinema known for redefining female stardom; and beloved actor Rashmika Mandanna, one of India’s fastest rising stars with pan-India appeal.

Cultural icons like Anoushka Shankar, Grammy-nominated sitar virtuoso and composer; Sudha Murthy, acclaimed author, philanthropist, and the first woman engineer at TATA Engineering and Locomotive Company; and Meera Syal, celebrated British Indian writer, comedian, and BAFTA-winning actor, will also bring their unique voices to the stage, bridging heritage, creativity, and empowerment.

The festival will also spotlight stories of grit and patriotism, such as the women officers behind India’s recent Operation Sindoor, and recognise Changemakers of 2025 – trailblazers from the British Indian community and beyond.

“At Vedanta, we believe that progress must be inclusive, and stories have the power to transform societies. By bringing ‘We The Women’ to Anil Agarwal Riverside Studios London, we’re building bridges between cultures and empowering voices that deserve to be heard across borders,” said Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta and a passionate advocate for inclusion and equity. She added, “We are committed to a future where every voice matters and every story inspires change, and we hope we can bring many such stories to Riverside”

Barkha Dutt, curator of the festival, added “This will be an amazing day of conversation, community, celebration and inspiration. We have an absolutely stellar line-up of speakers- the best line-up of its kind – and I am delighted to partner with Vedanta in bringing this day of glamour, gravitas and grassroots to London. We are so looking forward to celebrating women and the men who champion women for a day of fun, festivity and food”.

We The Women is not just a festival – it is a movement that unites generations, geographies, and genders. With Vedanta’s support and Anil Agarwal’s cultural vision, this edition marks a significant step in taking India’s stories to the world.

Vedanta supports a variety of ancient art forms and grassroot artists in India including Dhokra and Saura arts in Odisha, and Ajrak block printing in Rajasthan. In addition, it extends support to various cultural and literary festivals in India such as the Jaipur Literature Festival and the Udaipur World Music Festival.

Vedanta Limited is a global leader in critical minerals, energy and technology operating a diverse portfolio of world-class assets. It is the world’s largest integrated producer of zinc, the fourth-largest global producer of silver, amongst the world’s top aluminium producers, India’s only private oil and gas producer, and one of its largest private power producers. With an eye on the future, the company is strategically expanding its business portfolio by venturing into rare earths, other critical minerals, and renewable energy.