Grihshobha Inspire Awards 2025 celebrates trailblazing women across India

In a powerful celebration of courage, innovation, and leadership, the Grihshobha Inspire Awards 2025 were held at Travancore Palace in New Delhi on March 20. The event brought together extraordinary women from diverse fields, honouring those who have made a lasting impact in areas ranging from public health and governance to entertainment, business, science, and social activism.

The evening’s most poignant moment came with the recognition of Ms. K.K. Shailaja, former Kerala Health Minister, whose leadership during public health crises earned her widespread admiration and respect. Her presence at the event underscored the spirit of resilience and vision that defined the night.

Among the most celebrated winners was legendary actor and activist Ms. Shabana Azmi, who was honoured as the “Empowerment through Entertainment – Icon” for her powerful performances and relentless advocacy for social justice. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan was named “Nation Builder – Icon” for her pathbreaking contributions to scientific research and public health leadership, while Ms. Suparna Mitra, CEO of Titan Watches, received the “Business Leadership – Icon” award for setting new benchmarks in corporate innovation and excellence.

The awards also spotlighted remarkable grassroots changemakers. Ms. Ruma Devi was honoured for empowering rural artisans and preserving India’s rich craft traditions, and Ms. Amla Ruia received recognition for her pioneering efforts in water conservation. Social impact took centre stage with honourees such as Ms. Viji Venkatesh, whose work in cancer care advocacy earned her the “New Beginnings – Icon” title, and Ms. Kiruba Munusamy, who was celebrated for her legal activism advancing the rights of marginalized communities.

In the entrepreneurial space, Ms. Tage Rita Takhe, India’s first Kiwi winemaker, was acknowledged for her trailblazing journey in the beverage industry. Ms. Aditi Gupta, the founder of Menstrupedia, was awarded for transforming menstrual education and breaking taboos across India. Contributions to the automotive industry were also recognized, with Ms. Kripa Ananthan honoured as a changemaker in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

Legal crusaders Dr. Menaka Guruswamy and Ms. Arundhati Katju were jointly awarded for their historic work in gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights, further cementing the event’s emphasis on social transformation. In the realm of folk arts, Dr. Rani Jha was honoured for her role in preserving India’s folk heritage, while Dr. Bushra Ateeq was recognized for her excellence in STEM research.

Digital content creators and entertainers also found space under the spotlight. Ms. Tillotama Shome and Ms. Konkona Sen Sharma were lauded for their powerful portrayals of women on screen and their off-screen voices for change. Influencer-educators like Ms. Leeza Mangaldas, Dr. Tanaya Narendra, and Ms. Shruti Seth were acknowledged for using their platforms to speak boldly about empowerment, health, and parenting.

The awards were presented by distinguished guests including RTI activist Ms. Aruna Roy, senior advocate Ms. Indira Jaisingh, renowned Kathak dancer Ms. Shovana Narayan, and politician and women’s rights activist Ms. Subhashini Ali. Their presence added gravitas and inspiration to the evening.

A prestigious jury panel consisting of writer and former Femina editor Ms. Sathya Saran, actor Ms. Padmapriya Janakiraman, Champak editor Ms. Richa Shah, Learning Links Foundation president Ms. Nuriya Ansari, Outward Bound Himalaya director Ms. Dilshad Master, and The Caravan’s web editor Ms. Surabhi Kanga was responsible for the selection of winners across various categories.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Paresh Nath, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Delhi Press, remarked that the Grihshobha Inspire Awards were “a tribute to those who refuse to settle for the ordinary, who use creativity and courage to challenge norms and shape the future.” He added that in a noisy world, these awardees remind us that true leadership lies in “quiet yet transformative impact.”

Published by Delhi Press, Grihshobha remains one of India’s most influential women’s magazines with a legacy spanning over four decades and a readership of more than one million. Available in eight languages, the magazine continues to inspire and inform women across urban and rural India alike.