From an early age, Dr. Yatri Thacker was determined to pursue a career in medicine. Fascinated by the human body and intrigued by the connection between physical health and mental well-being, she developed a deep interest in the science of healing during her childhood. Her passion was further nurtured by watching her grandfather organize free medical camps, where she witnessed healthcare professionals serving patients with compassion, dedication, and a commitment to community welfare.

A significant turning point in her life came during the Gujarat earthquake in 2000. As a volunteer assisting victims of the disaster, she observed not only the physical injuries suffered by survivors but also the profound emotional trauma they carried. This experience highlighted the importance of empathy, communication, and psychological support in the healing process and inspired her to explore the field of psychology alongside her medical training.

Education

Dr. Yatri Thacker pursued her studies in homeopathic medicine, laying the foundation for her clinical career. Motivated by her experiences in disaster relief and her growing interest in emotional well-being, she subsequently studied psychology to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, mental health, and the mind-body connection.

Later, following her journey into motherhood and recognizing the need for greater awareness around postpartum depression and maternal mental health, she became an International Childbirth Educator. Her commitment to holistic wellness eventually led her to train as an Art of Living teacher, integrating breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness practices into her healthcare approach.

Career

With more than 22 years of clinical experience in Mumbai, Dr. Yatri Thacker has established herself as a practitioner of integrative healthcare, combining homeopathy, psychotherapy, counseling, childbirth education, breathwork, and holistic wellness practices.

Throughout her career, she has championed a comprehensive approach to healing, believing that true wellness involves addressing physical, emotional, and mental health simultaneously. She developed a unique healthcare model that integrates traditional homeopathic treatment with psychological counseling and wellness practices, enabling patients to achieve long-term health outcomes.

Her clinical work focuses on chronic disease management and holistic healing, including treatment and support for hair fall, hormonal imbalances, allergies, skin disorders, stress-related conditions, anxiety, and emotional wellness. Through her global online consultation platform, she serves patients across India and in more than ten countries worldwide.

Dr. Thacker has also developed “Dr. Yatri’s Products,” a wellness range designed to support natural health, preventive care, hormonal balance, hair wellness, and emotional well-being.

Beyond clinical practice, she is a recognized speaker on holistic health, mental wellness, stress management, and workplace well-being. She regularly conducts corporate wellness seminars, webinars, and educational programs aimed at promoting preventive healthcare and lifestyle transformation.

Personal Life

Motherhood played a transformative role in Dr. Yatri Thacker’s professional journey. Observing the emotional challenges faced by women during pregnancy and after childbirth inspired her to expand her work into maternal mental health and childbirth education.

Her personal experiences reinforced her belief that healthcare must extend beyond treating symptoms to supporting emotional resilience, self-awareness, and overall well-being. This philosophy continues to guide her practice and her mission of helping individuals achieve holistic health.

Achievements and Recognition

Dr. Yatri Thacker has received several honors and recognitions for her contributions to healthcare, holistic wellness, and patient education.

Her notable achievements include:

• Recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
• Recipient of the Nari Bhushan Puraskar.
• Recognized among the “99 Women Achievers of India.”
• Built a global integrative healthcare practice serving patients across India and internationally.
• Featured speaker at corporate wellness seminars, webinars, and healthcare forums.
• Featured on CNBC TV18 and various radio platforms for her insights on holistic wellness and mental health.
• Featured in newspapers, television channels, and media forums for her contribution to healthcare awareness.
• Contributor of expert articles and opinions to publications including Bombay Times, Femina, and Baby and Me magazine.

Sheeja Shaju grew up in a modest one-room kitchen apartment, sharing a tightly knit home with her parents and two siblings. Money was often tight, but the household prioritized hard work and resilience over material comfort. Showing a natural academic spark from her early years, Sheeja consistently excelled in school despite the family’s financial hurdles.

Determined to carve out her own path, she began working at nineteen to fund her aspirations. Her early jobs were remarkably diverse and hands-on, including an unconventional assignment where she operated a camera from a high crane inside a factory to document automotive manufacturing. She went on to secure an educational loan to finance her postgraduate studies entirely on her own. By balancing demanding roles in business and knowledge process outsourcing sectors with night shifts and study sessions, she successfully completed her Master’s degree while gaining a deep, practical understanding of how corporate systems and teams operate under pressure.

Personal Life

A pivotal chapter in Sheeja’s life opened when she chose to step away from full-time corporate employment for six years to focus entirely on raising her child. Far from a quiet sabbatical, this period became one of intense personal growth. She managed independent small business ventures, edited local magazines, and continuously studied human behavior. This phase anchored her ability to manage multiple high-stakes roles with complete clarity and presence.

Her life took a significant turn at age thirty-five when she joined the Institute for Generative Leadership. The experience transformed how she viewed human relationships and organizational structures. Over years of deep study, she sought out world-class mentorship, learning directly from globally respected educators like Bob Dunham, Sameer Dua, Josephina Santiago, and Vinay Kumar. To refine her holistic approach, she also invested in advanced leadership programs with pioneers like Tony Robbins, Dean Graziosi, and Richard Strozzi-Heckler.

Career

Sheeja’s early professional career was defined by an impressive functional range. She cut her teeth in the fast-paced trading environment of the Pune Stock Exchange, moved into technical and systems support within the aviation sector, and worked as a corporate IT trainer.

After finding her true calling at the IGL, she spent eight years rising through the ranks from an initial manager to the Director of both learning and business functions across Asia. Armed with this extensive experience, she stepped out to build her own vision, founding iCreate Leadership Coaching and Training, where she serves as Founder and CEO.

Today, as an executive leadership coach, keynote speaker, and author, Sheeja brings over twenty-five years of professional industry experience and thousands of hours of hands-on coaching to the boardroom. Her practice cuts through corporate fluff, focusing on radical personal ownership, decisive choice-making, and strong leadership presence for corporate executives.

Her client portfolio includes senior executives at global organizations such as Globant, Epiroc Mining, Hershey’s, BMC Software, Siemens Healthineers, Volvo, and ArcelorMittal. Her coaching practice crosses cultural borders effortlessly, transforming leaders across India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Ukraine, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

Achievements and Corporate Social Responsibility

Sheeja’s contributions to corporate growth and social empowerment have earned wide recognition across the business community.

Fox Story India named her among the 50 Under 50 Empowered Indians, and she received the Experience that Inspires Award at the World Women Leadership Congress, where she also shared her insights as an official panelist and shared the stage with powerful women across the globe.

Under her strategic guidance, iCreate Leadership Coaching and Training has rapidly scaled, more than doubling its revenue over the recent financial year and launching a formal corporate training alliance with DY Patil University.

She is also a successful author, channeling her field experiences into writing. She co-authored the Amazon bestselling books Become and Growing Groups Into Teams, the latter earning high praise from top industry veterans like Tapan Singhel, the Managing Director of Bajaj Allianz. She also authored the insightful e-book The Conscious Leader.

Her progressive ideas on leadership and somatic intelligence are frequently featured in mainstream publications like Business Standard, The Times of India, Hindustan Times, and the All India Management Association Magazine. She has also shared her philosophy on popular digital platforms, appearing as a guest on podcasts like Missing Conversations and She is Tech to discuss how personal stories and true presence shape career trajectories.

Believing that leadership means lifting others, Sheeja founded Project Azaadi. This grassroots philanthropic initiative provides free basic education to underprivileged women, bringing the same opportunities for growth and self-reliance she champions in corporate boardrooms out into the wider world.

Garima Bhargava was born in Uttar Pradesh, India, as the third daughter of Late Shri Mukesh Kumar Bhargava and Mrs. Veena Bhargava. She grew up in a simple middle class family environment where strong values, discipline, and hard work were an integral part of everyday life. Her upbringing played an important role in shaping her personality and her determination to succeed.

She completed her graduation from Delhi University. Alongside her academic studies, she pursued a course in Interior Designing from IIFT Delhi, which allowed her to explore her creative interests and gain professional skills. After completing her education, she began her professional journey as an apprentice at an architectural firm, where she gained early exposure to the working world and developed a sense of professionalism and responsibility.

Career

Garima Bhargava’s career took a significant turn after her marriage to Mr. Rohit Bhargava in 2002. Following her marriage, she joined the family business, Hyderabad Ammonia and Chemicals Private Limited. The company, established more than thirty five years ago, is a well known dealer of Anhydrous Ammonia and a manufacturer of Liquor Ammonia, supplying ammonia products across Telangana and the southern region of India.

Entering the chemical industry was both a challenge and an opportunity. Through dedication, continuous learning, and strong leadership, Garima Bhargava gradually established herself within the organization. Over the years she took on increasing responsibilities and played a key role in strengthening the company’s market presence and reputation.

Today she serves as the Managing Director of Hyderabad Ammonia and Chemicals Private Limited and is widely respected for her expertise and leadership in the ammonia industry. She is recognized as the only woman entrepreneur heading a chemical company in the Hyderabad region. Her professional philosophy is guided by the principles of service before self and customer is king, values that have helped the company maintain strong trust and goodwill among clients and partners.

Her leadership has not only helped sustain the legacy of the company but has also positioned it as a reliable supplier in the chemical sector.

Personal Life

Garima Bhargava is married to Mr. Rohit Bhargava and together they have built a strong family foundation while managing professional responsibilities. Despite the demanding nature of running a business, she has successfully balanced her role as a business leader with her responsibilities at home.

She is the proud mother of two children. Her daughter Urvashi Bhargava is a Software Engineer working with Apple India, while her son Ishaan Bhargava is currently pursuing his studies in Class 12. Garima Bhargava believes that maintaining harmony between family life and professional commitments is one of the key aspects of her journey.

Achievements and Recognition

Garima Bhargava’s contributions to entrepreneurship and the chemical industry have been recognized through several prestigious awards and honors. Her achievements reflect her dedication, leadership, and impact in a highly specialized field.

Some of her notable recognitions include:

FTCCI Outstanding Woman Entrepreneur Award in 2023
Fox Story Women Face of the Year Award in 2024
Finalist for the Pride of Telangana Award in 2025

In addition to these recognitions, she has received several other industry acknowledgments that celebrate her leadership and entrepreneurial journey. Her expertise and influence in the ammonia sector have also earned her the informal yet widely recognized title of Queen of Ammonia, a recognition proudly given by peers and competitors in the industry.

External Links

Hyderabad Ammonia and Chemicals Private Limited official website

Rajshree Dayanand Katke was born into an environment that deeply valued academic discipline, intellectual pursuit, and selfless public service. Her parents, Smt. Kamal Sonkawde and the late R. N. Sonkawde, were dedicated schoolteachers whose pedagogical ethics and strong principles profoundly shaped her early perspective. Growing up in the remote rural terrain of Maharashtra, she witnessed firsthand the profound challenges resulting from limited regional infrastructure. Undeterred, she pursued her early education with remarkable resilience, often walking multiple kilometers daily across rustic villages to reach school. Her family recognized her exceptional cognitive aptitude and wholeheartedly supported her aspirations for a higher career in medicine.

Education

Dr. Katke pursued her medical education at the Government Medical College, Aurangabad. She completed her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree with distinction in 1987, receiving the prestigious Gold Medal in Medicine during her final year. Driven by a deep empathy for women’s health, she specialized further at the same institution, successfully obtaining her Doctor of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 1993.

Committed to continuous clinical mastery, she expanded her surgical horizons through advanced certifications and fellowships over the subsequent two decades. She was bestowed with the Fellowship of the Indian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in 2011, followed by a Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery in 2013. She has bestowed fellowship of Maharashtra college of Obstetrics and Gynecology on 14 th March 2026.Her specialized credentials further include intensive training in Gynecological Endoscopic Surgery, Advanced Obstetric and Gynecological Ultrasound, Fetal Heart Monitoring, and Robotic Assisted Surgical Systems.

Personal Life

Despite the intense and relentless demands of navigating high-volume public operating rooms, emergency disaster response, and sprawling institutional administration, Dr. Katke remains deeply anchored by her family and core spiritual values. She credits her husband, Dr. Dayanand Katke, who is also a respected medical professional, and her daughters, Sonam and Monisha, as her enduring pillars of unconditional support, balance, and inspiration throughout her demanding public career.

For over twenty consecutive years, Dr. Katke has been a deeply dedicated practitioner of Vipassana meditation. She attributes this strict mental discipline as the true source of her emotional equilibrium, absolute clarity, and inner resilience while making split-second, life-and-death decisions within high-stress clinical systems. Operating under the guiding spiritual framework that direct service to vulnerable, suffering populations is the ultimate expression of faith, she beautifully embodies the profound ancient philosophy that work is truly worship.

Career

Dr. Katke has accumulated over thirty years of active clinical, surgical, and administrative experience within the public healthcare apparatus of Maharashtra. Her diverse professional journey spans major clinical breakthrough operations, high-level institutional governance, academic leadership, and dedicated grassroots advocacy.

Professor,Clinical Practice and Surgical Breakthroughs

Specialized in Obstetrics and  Gynecology  and complex maternal care, Dr. Katke built a stellar reputation for handling extreme pathologies that standard facilities were unequipped to treat. Among her most notable surgical interventions are the successful resections of exceptionally large abdominal masses, including a thirty-kilogram (30KG Tumour)uterine leiomyomatous tumor and a separate twenty-kilogram(20 KG) ovarian tumor. In another high-stakes case, she successfully excised a ten-kilogram (10KG)ovarian tumor from a patient during gestation, managing to preserve the pregnancy safely until a full-term delivery. Her clinical expertise also includes managing critical reproductive system emergencies, treating advanced uterine inversions, and safely delivering macrosomic infants weighing over five kilograms.

Institutional Leadership and Public Administration

Her career is equally defined by her extensive tenure in medical governance and state health administration. For seven years, she served as the Medical Superintendent of Mumbai’s historic Cama and Albless Hospitals, a premier public facility dedicated entirely to women and children. During her administration, she drove significant infrastructural modernization, establishing advanced oncology care pathways by introducing a Linear Accelerator for radiotherapy alongside a dedicated chemotherapy unit. Her tenure at Cama and Albless Hospitals also included managing the emergency response and post-crisis care during the tragic terrorist attacks in Mumbai, an effort she later commemorated by erecting a permanent memorial on the hospital grounds for the fallen security personnel.

Her administrative footprint spans several other key state roles. She served as the Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at both Grant Government Medical College in Mumbai and the Swami Ramanand Teerth Rural Medical College in Ambajogai. During the pandemic crisis, she was deputed by the Director of Medical Educationdirectly to the Department of Medical Education and Research, where she served on the state’s Member of Ayush task force and contributed to the strategic purchase committee establishing dedicated hospitals at St. George’s and G.T. Hospital. She has represented medical experts on the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques State Advisory Committee to combat female foeticide, and worked closely with the Indian Council of Medical Research on maternal emergency care projects. she has worked tremendously in Covid 19 Pandemic.

Academic and Educational Contributions

As an educator, Dr. Katke has over twenty-eight years of undergraduate teaching experience and twenty years of postgraduate medical mentorship, shaping generations of physicians. Her research portfolio includes more than one hundred (100+)scientific publications in indexed national and international medical journals, which have garnered over 444 academic citations and more than 2.15 lakh global reads. She has authored numerous textbook chapters on critical conditions like postpartum collapse and first-trimester medical termination of pregnancy. Her editorial work includes serving as the Editor-in- for competitive examination books and as a co-editor for definitive texts addressing government healthcare policies, legal acts, and non-communicable diseases in pregnancy. She has written a book on women’s Health awareness and Health Issues in Regional Language Marathi for the Rural and all women to read. the book has been selected by the Committee of Asiatic Library to keep this Book for its 43 Government Branches of Asiatic Library for Common public to read and to get health awareness.

Grassroots Public Health and Social Impact

Believing that medical expertise must extend beyond the walls of elite tertiary hospitals, Dr. Katke has dedicated a massive portion of her career to driving healthcare access into under-resourced segments of society. She has done  extensive diagnostic, operative, and ,preventive medical camps in remote tribal corridors and rural villages, including targeted health camps in Beed, Dharavi, and Nandurbar. To bridge public knowledge gaps, she frequently speaks on state media networks, lecturing on family planning, contraceptive literacy to prevent regional malnourishment, gestational hypertension, and breastfeeding guidelines for working mothers,women’s cancer awareness and prevention,Unwed Mothers,Human Milk Banking,HIV&AIDS Awreness Etc.

Achievements

Dr. Katke’s medical and administrative work has received prominent regional and international citations. Her international accolades include a formal letter of appreciation from the former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, who highly praised her hospital administration and maternal safety metrics during an official diplomatic visit to Mumbai. Her work is further cited via a commitment certificate from the World Record of London.

On the national front, she was conferred the Gaurav Pramanpatra by the Governor of Maharashtra in strict recognition of her medical administration during the height of the pandemic. She was also consecutively named both Best Associate Professor and Best Medical Superintendent by the leadership of the Directorate of Medical Education and Research. Her civil and media honors include the Rajiv Gandhi Excellence Award and Gold Medal, the National Mahila Ratna Gold Medal, the Lokmat Women’s Achievers Award for Women’s Health, the Mumbai Achievers Award, the Waghini Puraskar, the Dr. Sarojini Naidu International Award for Working Women, and a special operative excellence citation from the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for delivering life-saving surgical interventions during the state mega-medical camps.

External Links

Research gate:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rajshree-Katke
Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshree-dayanand-katke-sonkawde-katke-58722a80?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1By3FQebum/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Youtube:
https://youtube.com/@drrajshreedayanandkatke1?si=wu5FAyvXnRdB3bid
Blogspot:
https://share.google/mOySjlczp369ADyZv
Scholar:
https://scholar.google.com/citations?u

Early Life and Family

Dr. Sirsath-Shinde was born into an agricultural family in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Raised in a rural environment with no family history of formal higher education, she became the first individual in her family to pursue advanced academic studies.

She is married to Akash Shinde, an engineer who has been a key supporter throughout her educational and professional advancement.

Education

Raised in a community where academic opportunities were limited, Dr. Sirsath-Shinde completed her primary and secondary schooling locally before entering the medical and healthcare sector. Navigating the higher education system without an existing family legacy or professional network, she completed her medical training and earned her degree through independent discipline and study.

Career

Healthcare Leadership

Dr. Sirsath-Shinde is the Director of Prayas Multi-speciality Hospital, located in the Bajajnagar MIDC industrial zone of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The hospital operates as a 30-bed facility managed primarily by women professionals. Under her management, the hospital provides specialized and accessible healthcare services to industrial laborers, local workers, and neighboring communities within the manufacturing belt. Her administrative style is noted for active clinical oversight and direct patient interaction.

Non-Profit and Social Work

In addition to her clinical role, Dr. Sirsath-Shinde serves as the Vice President of the Eco Wings Youth Foundation NGO. Through this organization, she directs grassroots initiatives focused on youth empowerment, civic engagement, and community welfare, bridging health services with public development programs.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Sirsath-Shinde’s work in community health administration and social leadership has been recognized by various regional and professional organizations. Her notable honors include:

• Brave Women Award
• Young Health Care Leader Award
• Kartabgar Mahila Award

Neha Padia began her journey in healthcare with a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from MGM Institute of Health Sciences. During her early training, she developed a deep fascination for the human nervous system and the life changing impact of neurological rehabilitation. Her internship became a defining period in her life, where small but meaningful moments left a lasting impression on her. Whether it was watching a baby make eye contact for the first time or seeing a paralysed patient slowly regain movement, these experiences strengthened her belief that rehabilitation can restore not only physical function but also dignity and hope.

Motivated by these experiences, Neha pursued her Master’s in Neuro Physiotherapy from the same institute. Her academic journey further refined her clinical expertise and strengthened her commitment to improving neurological care. She is currently preparing for a PhD in Physiotherapy with the vision of contributing to advanced research and improving rehabilitation practices in India.

Career

Neha started her professional career as a part time physiotherapist at Neel Clinic and Multi Speciality Hospital. The experience helped her understand the importance of teamwork, patience, and adaptability in healthcare. Through her compassionate approach and dedication towards patient recovery, she gradually became known for promoting the belief that “movement is medicine.”

Her passion for learning eventually led her into academics, where she served as an Assistant Professor at her alma mater for more than two years. Teaching became a meaningful part of her journey, allowing her to mentor students while continuing to grow professionally. Inspired deeply by her mother’s role as a teacher, she developed a strong belief in the value of education, mentorship, and continuous learning.

Currently, Neha works at the Society for Rehabilitation of Paraplegics, an organisation she had admired since her student years. Her work focuses on helping people with disabilities rediscover confidence, independence, and strength in their daily lives. She actively contributes to creating rehabilitation programs that are inclusive, accessible, and empowering for both patients and their families.

Beyond clinical work, Neha envisions a future where neurological rehabilitation in India becomes more affordable, accessible, and widely accepted. Through her combined roles as a clinician, educator, and innovator, she continues to work toward creating meaningful change in healthcare.

Personal Life

Neha lives in Navi Mumbai with her family and credits her upbringing for shaping her values of empathy, compassion, and service. She shares a close bond with her mother, whose influence as a teacher inspired her love for mentorship and learning. Outside her professional responsibilities, Neha enjoys guiding others and contributing positively to the lives of people around her.

Achievements and Recognition

Neha’s dedication to physiotherapy and rehabilitation has earned her several academic and professional recognitions. In 2023, she received the Inspiring Personality Award from the Women Power and Social Awareness Foundation. She was also recognised as a Gold Medalist by the Indian Association of Physiotherapy in Neuro Physiotherapy and secured a Silver Medal at the university level during her Master’s degree.

Her innovative contributions in healthcare were recognised at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, where she received the Best Engineered Device Award at MEDIC 2022 and the Best Creative Team Award at MEDHA 2021. She has also been honoured with the Scientific Inclination Award for her contributions to research and higher education.

Deepa Mohanraj is an educator, social entrepreneur, and advocate for neurodiverse children whose life journey has been deeply shaped by personal experience and resilience. Born with a strong sense of compassion and empathy, she pursued higher education in psychology and later completed her M.Sc. in Psychology. However, the defining turning point in her life came after the birth of her daughter, Richee, in 2002.

Soon after birth, Richee was diagnosed with craniosynostosis, a rare medical condition in which the skull bones fuse prematurely, affecting brain growth and development. The diagnosis brought emotional challenges, uncertainty, and depression into Deepa’s life. During one of the most difficult moments, while her daughter underwent surgery, Deepa discovered a renewed sense of purpose and strength through faith and hope. She later described this period as the beginning of her mission to support children with special needs and their families.

Career

Inspired by her daughter’s journey, Deepa founded Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy in 2006 under the Kaumaram Prashanthi Trust. The institution began as a small initiative with only three children, one therapist, and one helper. Over the years, it evolved into one of the leading institutions for neurodiverse and differently abled children in the region.

Located in Saravanampatti, Coimbatore, the academy today spans a 20,000 square feet campus spread across 60 cents of land and supports more than 300 students with the help of 90 multidisciplinary staff members. The institution offers occupational therapy, vocational training, computer education, bakery and cooking units, music sessions, sports activities, and adventure-based learning programs designed to encourage independence and skill development among children.

In 2010, the academy expanded to Tirupur and later established additional centres in Saibaba Colony and Singanallur. In 2023, Deepa launched YASYA, a doorstep intervention initiative aimed at reaching differently abled individuals within their homes and communities. Her vision further expanded through the “What After Us” project, focused on ensuring safe and independent living for neurodiverse adults after parental care.

In 2024, the Tamil Nadu Government selected Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy as a CSP provider under the World Bank-funded TN RIGHTS Project, allowing the institution to support the neurodiverse community across Coimbatore district.

Apart from her work at the academy, Deepa serves as a Board Member of the Institutional Review Board at Ganga Hospital and was elected President of Special Olympics Bharat for the Coimbatore Zone.

Personal Life

Deepa Mohanraj’s personal life remains closely connected to her mission of inclusion and empowerment. Her daughter Richee continues to be the inspiration behind her work and achievements. What began as a mother’s effort to support her child gradually transformed into a lifelong commitment to helping hundreds of families facing similar challenges.

To strengthen her expertise in the field, she pursued specialised certifications including PECS Trainer, FIE Trainer, Certified Art Based Therapist, and Dance and Movement Therapy Facilitator. Her life reflects the belief that adversity can be transformed into purpose through determination and compassion.

Achievements and Recognition

Deepa’s contribution to special education and social service has earned her widespread recognition. She has received several prestigious honours including the 100 Inspiring Women 2023 Award, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Education Excellence Award, National Mahila Rathna Gold Medal, Women of Impact Award, Wonder Woman Award, Soulmates Award, Aatma Navaratna Award, and the Indian Award for Social Service.

She has also been invited as a TEDx Speaker, speaker at CSR Fest 2023, participant at the South India’s Iconic Women Summit, and Special Invitee at the CII Nilgiris Economic Dialogue 2025.

Under her leadership, Kaumaram Prashanthi Academy has successfully organised inclusive initiatives such as INQ-FEST, Special Olympics Bharat Training Camps, and Special Walkathons, creating awareness and support for neurodiverse communities across India.

Through compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication, Deepa Mohanraj continues to transform lives and redefine inclusive education in India.

Swati Shankar was born into a bureaucratic family where discipline, integrity, and public service were deeply valued. Her father, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, played a significant role in shaping her personality and worldview. From an early age, she was inspired by his commitment to duty, leadership, and justice. Her mother, a homemaker, provided emotional strength and unwavering support, becoming a guiding force throughout her life.

Growing up in such an environment helped Swati develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of purpose. She learned early on that resilience and hard work are essential to overcoming challenges. These values would later become the foundation of both her personal and professional journey.

Education

Swati Shankar completed her schooling at Apeejay School, where she excelled academically and developed a keen interest in public affairs and social issues. Her passion for justice and advocacy motivated her to pursue legal studies at the University of Delhi, one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions.

Determined to deepen her understanding of the legal system, she went on to earn a Master’s degree in Criminal Law. Her academic background equipped her with a strong foundation in legal principles, constitutional values, and criminal jurisprudence, preparing her for the demanding world of litigation.

Career

Adv. Swati Shankar began her legal journey at a time when life presented both professional and personal responsibilities simultaneously. She entered the legal profession when her daughter was just three years old, balancing motherhood with the rigorous demands of court practice. This phase of her life became a defining chapter that demonstrated her resilience, determination, and ability to rise above challenges.

Today, she is a distinguished advocate practicing at the Supreme Court of India and has built a strong reputation for her sharp legal acumen, ethical standards, and result-oriented advocacy. She is also a respected member of the Supreme Court Bar Association and the Delhi High Court Bar Association.

Her legal practice spans a wide range of civil and criminal matters, with particular expertise in family law, matrimonial disputes, domestic violence cases, property and inheritance matters, partition suits, and criminal litigation. Over the years, she has become especially recognized for her dedicated work in safeguarding women’s rights and supporting individuals dealing with sensitive legal disputes involving maintenance, domestic abuse, and legal entitlements.

Known for her strong drafting skills and confident courtroom representation, Adv. Shankar combines compassion with strategic thinking, enabling her to handle complex disputes with clarity and precision. She actively represents clients across India and frequently appears before various High Courts, reflecting her wide professional reach and versatility.

Beyond courtroom advocacy, she has taken on several leadership roles within legal and social organizations. She currently serves as Rashtriya Mahamantri at the Rashtriya Sanyukt Adhivakta Manch, where she contributes actively to strengthening the legal fraternity at a national level. She is also the National Senior Vice President of the Hema Akhil Bhartiya Mahila Shakti Association, working extensively on women empowerment and social justice initiatives. In addition, she serves as the National Legal Advisor to the Real Help Bureau NGO, offering legal guidance on matters of public interest and community welfare.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Swati Shankar is a devoted mother who has successfully balanced career and family life with remarkable grace. As a single mother, she raised her daughter, Khushi Verma, while simultaneously building a distinguished legal career.

Khushi Verma has emerged as a successful model, artist, entrepreneur, and founder of “Reign by Khushi Verma.” She is also a Pageant and Interview Coach and has earned national recognition by winning Star Miss Teen India 2021 and becoming a finalist at Miss Universe India 2024. Swati often considers her daughter’s achievements among her greatest sources of pride.

Her journey as both a legal professional and a mother reflects extraordinary strength, perseverance, and emotional resilience. She believes strongly in empowering women to become independent, confident, and fearless in pursuing their dreams.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout her career, Adv. Swati Shankar has received numerous awards and recognitions for her contribution to law, leadership, and social service. She has been honored with the prestigious Naari Ratan Award and has been recognized among the “50 Most Powerful Women” by Zee News and Fox Story India.

Over the past decade, she has continued to earn accolades for her outstanding contribution to the legal profession and society. Her work in women’s rights advocacy, legal awareness, and social justice has made her an influential figure in both legal and social circles.

Adv. Swati Shankar’s life story is not merely a narrative of professional success but one of courage, leadership, and transformation. Through her dedication to justice, commitment to empowering women, and unwavering determination, she continues to inspire countless individuals across the country. Her journey stands as a powerful reminder that true strength lies in rising above challenges and turning adversity into purpose.

Early Life and Education

Sahanawaz Hussain’s childhood in the small village Tildanga in Farakka played a significant role in shaping his artistic sensibilities. Even as a child, he demonstrated an inherent talent and passion for the arts. He pursued his schooling at Delhi Public School, Farakka, and Kendriya Vidyalaya, NTPC Farakka. Later, he studied Geography at Krishnath College and completed management studies at Amity University, Kolkata. His early exposure to rural landscapes and wildlife inspired his creative outlook.

Career

In 2019, Hussain formally introduced Nawazi Painting and founded his own art studio, “Hussain Art.” His works combine his love of nature with geometric abstraction. Over time, he began mentoring young artists, spreading the movement across India.

Exhibitions and Recognitions

•Featured at the Bombay Art Society in 2021.

•Showcased at ICCR Kolkata’s Kajrai Art Exhibition.

•Documented in the book “Drawings and Paintings in Fine Art” by Prakhar Goonj Publication.

Contribution to Art and Painting

In 2019, Sahanawaz Hussain introduced Nawazi Painting, a groundbreaking form of modern visual art that originated from farakka, Murshidabad, West Bengal. The term “Nawazi” is derived from his own name, signifying a personal connection to this innovative art style. Nawazi paintings are known for their vibrant colors, symbolizing beauty, love, and energy. They often depict birds and animals, reflecting the artist’s deep affection for nature. Utilizing geometric patterns like squares, triangles, rectangles, cubes, and more, Sahanawaz masterfully shapes different animals and birds, capturing their essence through a wide array of colors. The paintings are bordered with colorful lines, adding to their aesthetic appeal. The intricate use of geometric patterns challenges the viewer’s perception, requiring closer examination to fully grasp the artwork’s essence. Nawazi paintings are created on various surfaces, including walls, canvas, paper, clay pots, wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, and jute bags, all using acrylic as the medium. Sahanawaz’s unique art form can be traced back to geometric abstract expressionism, highlighting the influence of geometric art on his creations.

Legacy and Influence

Nawazi Painting has emerged as a distinctive contribution to contemporary Indian art, blending cultural identity with innovation. Through Hussain’s vision, it bridges traditional symbolism and modern abstraction, resonating with themes of harmony, beauty, and emotional depth. The movement continues to inspire new artists who seek to express abstract ideas through structured forms.

Books

1. Art and Culture of West Bengal published by Academic Enclave publisher in 2024
2. Introduction to textile design published by Academic Enclave in 2025
3. The colour of my life published by prakhargoonj publication in 2026
4. Drawings and Paintings in Fine Art by prakhargoonj Publication in 2023

Philosophy

• “ One colour,one brush,one thought can change the colour of whole world”  ~sahanawaz hussain

• “Art is not the subject of memorising a technique…it is something the creation of mind,so do something by your own mind it will be a great style in the modern art”  ~sahanawaz hussain.

External link

https://www.instagram.com/artist_sahanawaz_hussain?igsh=MWZqaWI0dGFrZjlqaw==

https://www.instagram.com/nawazi_painting?igsh=eGx6bjUxeTRyemQ4

https://www.facebook.com/share/1CKhudv58X

Reference

https://bengali.abplive.com/brand-wire/how-sahanwaj-hossain-s-nawaji-painting-is-redefining-indian-abstraction-1166555

https://www.dainikjagranmpcg.com/national-international/nawaz-painting-the-development-of-a-modern-visual-art-the/article-45543

https://amzn.in/d/0hBjXaMd

https://share.google/rbgIcxaC6zHZhBmeA

https://amzn.in/d/c4AXM9b

https://dl.flipkart.com/s/iQffzqNNNN

https://www.amazon.in/stores/author/B0DBFZ3K4C/about

https://amzn.in/d/dNcqND9

https://share.google/Z6tY1BOGdbxhAlES4

Maansi Makkar developed a strong inclination toward creativity and communication from an early age. She was deeply interested in journaling, writing, poetry, sketching, storytelling, dance, and artistic expression, which later became the foundation of her professional identity.

She began her corporate career with HDFC Bank and later gained international professional exposure while living and working in Dubai and Singapore. During this period, she worked with organizations including DP World, where she developed expertise in communication, business operations, relationship management, and leadership within multicultural corporate environments.

In 2020, she returned to India with a renewed vision centered around growth, creativity, and entrepreneurship, which marked the beginning of her independent professional journey.

Career

Maansi Makkar is known for her work in branding, marketing communication, storytelling, and business growth strategy. She specializes in personal branding, marketing strategy, LinkedIn positioning, content communication, and brand storytelling.

Over the years, she has worked with entrepreneurs, founders, and brands across industries including healthcare, construction, interior solutions, manufacturing, wellness, education, and lifestyle. Through strategic communication and positioning, she has helped businesses strengthen their market presence, build credibility, and create meaningful audience engagement.

She is also associated with ventures focused on branding, scaling, recruitment, career counselling, and marketing implementation. Her professional philosophy emphasizes that branding is not only about visibility, but about building trust, emotional connection, influence, and long-term business value.

Maansi is recognized for combining creativity with business psychology to create communication strategies that align with brand vision and audience behavior.

Personal Life

Outside of her professional work, Maansi remains closely connected to writing, poetry, creativity, and personal development. She believes in the power of emotional intelligence, self-growth, and meaningful communication as essential elements of both life and business.

She is also actively involved in initiatives related to women empowerment, networking, leadership development, and skill enhancement. Her communication style reflects a balance of emotional depth, strategic thinking, and creativity.

Achievements & Recognition

• Built a professional identity as a creative brand strategist and communication consultant.
• Worked with brands and businesses across multiple industries in India and international markets.
• Gained international corporate exposure through professional experience in Dubai and Singapore.
• Helped entrepreneurs and businesses strengthen brand positioning and digital communication strategies.
• Recognized for expertise in storytelling, personal branding, LinkedIn positioning, and strategic communication.
• Associated with initiatives supporting women empowerment, professional networking, and business development.