From trailblazing leaders and activists to groundbreaking artists and entrepreneurs, several women were honoured at The Hindu World of Women 2024 in Chennai on Friday.
Nirmala Lakshman, chairperson of The Hindu Group of Publishing Private Limited, said, “In this journey of celebration and reflection, let us not forget the countless women who paved the way, breaking barriers and challenging convention to create a more inclusive and equitable world for generations to come.”
“I would like to point out that while gender equality is critical, so is equity, which means that while equality is the cornerstone of every society, equity ensures that everyone reaches and gets the same outcome. And it’s important that it is available to all women, as equity is an important aspect to equality,” Ms. Lakshman said, adding that all organisations, corporates, and NGOs must level up to meet the critical needs of women to ensure that equity and equality are delivered.
Justice Anita Sumanth of Madras High Court said, “All role models today have great power, and with that comes great responsibility. What we truly celebrate today is their unwavering grit, tenacity and most importantly, their intention to give back to society.”
She added that there are many with talent, skills and expertise but few achieve oneness in their art or their calling. There are a few people who look beyond and use that experience to benefit others, she said.
Veteran actor and Bharatanatyam exponent Vyjayanthimala Bali was presented with The Hindu Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ms. Bali, upon receiving the award, said, “It gives me immense pleasure to receive the lifetime achievement award from The Hindu Group. I receive the award with joy and humility.”
The Hindu Excellence in Music Award went to carnatic musician Bombay Jayashri. “It is a humbling moment to be amongst extraordinary women. I want to dedicate this award to my Amma and I’m here today because of her,” Ms. Jayashri said.
While The Hindu Excellence in Entertainment Award was presented to actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu (who could not be present), motivational speaker Bharathy Baskar received The Hindu Excellence in Art & Culture Award.
Para athlete Malathi Krishnamurthy Holla, who received The Hindu Achievement in Surpassing Disability Award, and R. Roja, who ensures dignified burials to abandoned corpses, was honoured with The Hindu Contribution to Society Award.
Rifle shooter and Olympian Elavenil Valarivan was given The Hindu Excellence in Sports Award and transwoman K. Prithika Yashini received The Hindu Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Award.
Gynaecologists Kamala Selvaraj and Priya Selvaraj of GG Hospital got The Hindu Generational Pride Award; ISRO scientist Nigar Shaji got The Hindu Excellence in Education, Science, and Technology Award.
Women’s Collective, a non-profit organisation, received The Hindu Excellence in Agriculture & Rural Development Award. Sheelu Francis of Women’s Collective said that they have been striving to empower women across the State.
“We have been concentrating on establishing ourselves as women farmers and trying to do climate resilient agriculture,” she said.
While P. Poorna Chandrika, professor, Institute of Mental Health received The Hindu Excellence in Health & Hygiene Award, Saranya Ponvannan, actor and founder of Designing School of Fashion Technology, got The Hindu Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award.
The Hindu World of Women 2024 was presented by GRT Jewellers, and co-presented by Hatsun Curd in association with SRM Institute of Science & Technology and Naga. The event was powered by Aqua Group & RKG Ghee. The realty partner was Gsquare, luxury partner was DA Milano Italia, telecast partner was Puthuyugam TV, news TV partner was Puthiya Thalaimurai, and the gift partner was Lifespice.
The Hindu Contribution to Society Award: R. ROJA
Roja was awarded for her remarkable dedication to humanity, commitment to providing dignity to th the abandoned and for her tireless efforts in offering solace to t o the forgot tter and lost that exemplify the highest standards of compassion and selfiessness. Through her actions, she has inspired countless others and she continues to serve as a beacon of hope in our community
The Hindu Achievement in Surpassing Disability Award: MALATHI KRISHNAMURTHY HOLLA
Despite facing significant hurdles, Malathi has emerged as a beacon remarkable of inspiration, breaking barriers and achieving remark le success imarious spheres of life. Her resilience and indomitable spirit serve as a shining example to all, proving that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible
The Hindu Excellence in Health & Hygiene Award: P. POORNA CHANDRIKA
Dr. Chandrika’s unwavering commitment, expertise, and innovative approaches have significantly improved public health outcomes and contributed toward rds reviving ving stigma for those with mental illness Through her dedication to advancing healthcare access and promoting viable livelihood options for patients, she has positively impacted countiess lives, particularly in under-sarved communities
The Hindu Excellence in Agriculture & Rural Development Award: WOMEN’S COLLECTIVE
Through tireless efforts and innovative approaches, the Wornerr’s Collective has significantly transformed rural communities, empowering women and improving agricultural practices. The organisation, led by women, has shown dedication to sustainable tarming, community development, and women’s empowerment, not only enhancing livelihood options but also strengthening the agricultural sectar
The Hindu Excellence in Education, Science, and Technology Awant NIGAR SHAJI
Nigar was awarded for her groundbreaking contributions and visionary leadership in space exploration and for spearheading ISRO’S Aditya 11 mission and overseeing various other projects, including those involving remote sensing and satellites. As the programme director for Lower Earth Orbit & Planetary Missions and Project Director for Aditya L1 spacecraft, she has demonstrated exceptional kadership
The Hindu Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Champion Award: K. PRITHIKA YASHINI
As the first transgender woman to join the police force in Tamil Nadu, Prithika hat shattered barriers and paved the way for grester representation and acceptance in the workplace. Her courage, resilience, and commitment to equality have inspired countless individuals and catalysed positive change in society
The Hindu Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award: SARANYA PONVANNAN
Saranya’s entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly beyond the silver screen. With a passion for fashion design and a desire to empower aspiring designers, especially women facing societal challenges, she founded DSOFT, Design & School of Fashion Technology Through DSOFT, Saranya provides a nurturing platform for budding fash fashion enthusiasts, extending support by waiving fees for marginalised women
The Hindu Excellence in Sports Award: ELAVENIL VALARIVAN
Elavenill’s talent, perseverance, and relentless pursuit in the field of sports have not only brought glory to herself but have also cuvated the nation’s stature on the global sports stage. Elavenil’s record-breaking performances and remarkable achievements have made her a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country
The Hindu Excellence in Arts & Culture Award: BHARATHY BASKAR
Through her tireless efforts, Bharathy has organised numerous cultural events and initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting traditional art forms, thereby bridging the gap between the past and the present. Her innovative projects have provided platformsi for emerging artists to showcase their talents and have facilitated meaningful dialogues on cultural heritage and identity
The Hindu Excellenice in Music Award: BOMBAY JAYASHRI
Bombay Jayashri was awarded for her exceptional contrib al contributions to the field of music, mastery over Carnatic music and her ability to transcend boundaries, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary influences, exemplify the highest standards of musical excellence. With her unique voice and profound interpretations, Bombay Jayashri has left an indelible mark on the music industry
The Hindu Generational Pride Award: KAMALA SELVARAJ & PRIYA SELVARAJ
For their remarkable contributions to the field of reproductive medicine, which have not only advanced medical science, but also given families aspiring to have children a succour when all else has failed. Through their pioneering work, they have significantly impacted an society, embodying the essence of excellence and dedication
The Hindu Excellence in Entertainment Award: SAMANTHA RUTH PRABHU
With her exceptional talent, versatility, and dedication, Samantha has captivated audiences across the globe, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. Her compelling performances and commitment to her craft have gamered widespread acclaim
The Hindu Lifetime Achievement Award: VIJAYANTHIMALA BALI
A legendary figure whose illustrious career has spanned decades, Vyjayanthimala has not only mesmerised audiences with her captivating performances on screen but has also set new standards of excellence as a classical dancer. Her extraordinary talent, grace, and versatility have earned her a place in the annals of Indian cinema and cultural heritage
