Inclusivity, inequality, gender bias, and pay gaps—are just a few of the challenges women continue to face. In a country where goddesses are worshipped, the question remains: when will true equality become a reality? When will society embrace inclusivity for all? To spark these conversations and drive change, The Architect’s Diary presents a groundbreaking list of “30 Powerful Women of India,” highlighting the crucial role of women in shaping a stronger nation. This Women’s Day, we honor solo women-led practices in art, architecture, and design—trailblazers paving the way for a progressive and empowered India.

1. Sunita Kohli, Kohelika Kohli Architects

“Pioneer in Interior Design, an Author, and Cultural Icon Shaping India’s Design Legacy.“

Sunita Kohli is a national award-winning interior designer, furniture manufacturer, and conservator-restorer since 1971. She is the President of K2India, co-founded with Ar. Kohelika Kohli, and a former Chairperson of SPA Bhopal. In 1992, she was conferred the Padma Shri, the first person in the discipline of interior design, and the Mahila Shiromani Award by Mother Teresa. Sunita Kohli is an essayist and author. With her mother, Chand Sur, she co-authored The Lucknow Cookbook. The second book of her Cuisine Trilogy is ‘The India Cookbook – From the Tables of My Friends’. ‘KALA – Essays on Contemporary Design Aesthetics’, an edited compendium of essays, was first launched in Milan, London, New York, and Lahore. Presently, five books are under preparation for publication.

2. Brinda Somaya, Somaya + Sampat

“Challenging conventional creative boundaries through extensive research-driven process.”

Brinda Somaya is a visionary architect whose work seamlessly blends heritage, modernity, and sustainability. With a career spanning over five decades, she has redefined India’s architectural landscape through projects that honor cultural roots while embracing innovation. Her mastery lies in crafting spaces that are deeply contextual and socially responsible.

As a pioneering voice in contemporary design, adaptive reuse, and conservation, she has transformed institutions, urban landscapes, and public spaces with sensitivity and intellect. A true inspiration, Somaya’s philosophy—‘the architect is a guardian of the built and unbuilt environments’—continues to shape the discourse of Indian architecture with wisdom and grace.

She has served on multiple international design juries, actively influencing the global evolution of architecture and design. In recognition of her contributions, she has been awarded an honorary doctorate from Smith College, USA (alma mater), named A.D. White Professor-at-Large Emerita at Cornell University, USA, and honored with the prestigious IIA Baburao Mhatre Gold Medal for Lifetime Achievement.

3. Sheila Sri Prakash, Shilpa Architects

“The first Indian woman to establish her own architectural practice in 1979.”

Sheila Sri Prakash founded Shilpa Architects in 1979, becoming the first Indian woman to establish her own architectural practice. Over the decades, her firm has evolved into a leader in sustainable and socially responsible design, integrating traditional Indian philosophies with contemporary global standards. With a strong commitment to ecological sensitivity and cultural preservation, Shilpa Architects has shaped landmark projects such as Mahindra World City (Chennai), MMA Centre, and Chennai International Centre (CICON), and the restoration of Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur). Beyond architecture, Sheila Sri Prakash’s influence extends to global sustainability discussions through The Reciprocity Foundation, which she founded to foster research and collaboration in urban development. Her ability to merge innovation with cultural identity has not only redefined modern Indian architecture but also positioned her as a thought leader on the international stage. Through her work, she continues to inspire a new generation of architects, urban planners, and sustainability advocates.

4. Canna Patel, HCP ID Pvt. Ltd.

“Shaping India’s Design Landscape with Vision and Purpose.”

With over 3 decades of experience, Ar. Canna Patel is a distinguished architect and interior designer. As the Founder & Chairperson of HCP Interior Design Pvt. Ltd. and a key force behind Statement Interiors, she has led over 300 projects across private residences, corporate offices, hospitality, and institutional spaces. Her work seamlessly integrates interiors with architectural forms, balancing global standards with India’s rich cultural sensibilities.

Moreover, her notable work includes the Alliance Française Building, Raj Bhawan, Swarnim Sankul, and her role as an interior sub-consultant for the Central Vista Project. Her contribution expands on the upliftment of Ahmedabad’s urban fabric through metro station facelifts and public art initiatives.

As an advocate for meaningful design, she authored Meaning is More—Interior Design for India (CEPT Press, 2023). Recognized by Forbes India’s The Bold Club and termed the Doyen of Design, Canna Patel continues to shape India’s design narratives with her profound vision.

5. Shimul Javeri Kadri, SJK Architects

“Impactful Designs from a solo practice to a collective when the three like-minded peers joined as partners.”

SJK Architects is a Mumbai-based architecture, interior design, and master planning practice founded by Shimul Javeri Kadri and led by her and partners—Vaishali Mangalvedhekar, Sarika Shetty, and Roshni Kshirsagar.

Striding away from an unconventional path, Shimul established her independent architectural practice in 1990. Three years ago, the firm marked a significant turning point by transitioning from a solo practice to a collective. This was when the three like-minded peers, Vaishali, Sarika, and Roshni, joined as partners. Over the years, the firm has grown in stature and size, evolving into a dynamic team of 40+ like-minded individuals. It is dedicated to crafting meaningful cultural narratives through architecture, interior design, and master planning.

Since the beginning, SJK Architects have strived to engage sensitively with the built environment. They design spaces for a rapidly urbanizing India, meticulously crafted from a study of climate, culture, history, and technology. Their portfolio cuts across scales and typologies, including residential, retail, hotels and resorts, museums and galleries, industrial, and healthcare. Dedicated to fostering diversity, creativity, and collaboration, SJK Architects continues to grow in the architectural landscape, shaping spaces that resonate with the people and places they serve.

6. Samira Rathod, Samira Rathod Design Atelier

“An uncompromising sense of ethics and passion for design.“

Working from the maximum city, Mumbai, India, Samira Rathod is an architect, teacher, writer, and editor. She is the principal architect and founder of Samira Rathod Design Atelier (SRDA). Established in 2000 with an uncompromising sense of ethics and passion for design, SRDA has built an enviable portfolio of a variety of architecture, interior projects, furniture designs, and art installations across the country and overseas.

Rathod earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Sir J. J. College of Architecture, an affiliate of the University of Mumbai, in 1986. Additionally, she accrued a Master’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Samira Rathod founded the SPADE India Foundation—a non-profit discussion forum for architects, designers, photographers, authors, and editors interested in gathering and disseminating unfiltered viewpoints from within the practice of architecture through their critical publication SPADE India, of which Rathod serves as an editor.

Having designed over 500 pieces of furniture products already, Samira revisits her early love for furniture design through Big Piano. It is a studio that designs and crafts handmade, whimsical furniture.

7. Sarah Sham, Essajees Atelier

“Bridging Heritage and Contemporary Design.“

Sarah Sham’s journey embodies the seamless fusion of heritage and contemporary design. As an extension to her 130-year-old family antique and furniture business in Mumbai’s historic Colaba district, she founded Essajees Atelier in 2014, breathing new life into the legacy. Sarah’s vision was to create a design firm that honored the past while embracing the future. To craft spaces that are both functional and aesthetically compelling. Her conscious decision to avoid a ”signature style” allows each project to evolve organically. Thus, resulted in a diverse portfolio of over 100 projects spanning 350,000 sq. ft. across 12 cities. This approach, coupled with her leadership, has cultivated a thriving team of 35 design experts and an enviable online presence.

Beyond her design work, Sarah demonstrates a commitment to community building. In 2020, she leveraged Essajees Atelier’s social media platform to create an online hub for interior designers across India. This initiative fostered collaboration and knowledge sharing among thousands of professionals, connecting them across geographical boundaries.

Continuing her trajectory of growth and innovation, in 2024, Sarah launched a premium design consultancy in Dubai. It further expanded her reach and influence. Her achievements have garnered widespread recognition, including a TEDx speaking engagement and numerous accolades from prominent publications and organisations.

8. Urmila Kanoria, Kanoria Centre for Arts

“A cultural pioneer: Propelling Indian Art through vision & generosity.”

Urmila Kanoria, a cultural leader and philanthropist, has been a pioneering force in Indian art and design. Inspired by Santiniketan’s artistic philosophy, she founded the Kanoria Centre for Arts (KCA) in Ahmedabad in 1984. It shaped the city’s contemporary art landscape with the support of Balkrishna Doshi and Priyakant Munshaw. Born into the distinguished Modi family, she inherited a strong sense of social responsibility from her parents, Gujjarmal and Dayavati Modi. She actively supports charitable organizations like Women’s Interlink, Child Welfare, and Missionaries of Charity.

Beyond KCA, she has held key positions, including Vice-President of The Bombay Art Society and Vice-Chairperson of the Women’s Interlink Foundation. Honored for her contributions, she has received awards such as the JSAF Nari Shakti Award, the FICCI Flo Sambhavna Cultural Icon Award, and the World Leadership Congress Award for Excellence in Arts & Culture.

9. Kiran Nadar, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art

“Bridging Art, Culture, and Philanthropy on the Global Stage.”

Kiran Nadar is a transformative figure in Indian art, renowned for establishing the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) in 2010. With over 15,000 artworks spanning various phases of modern and contemporary Indian art, KNMA, as a non-commercial, not-for-profit organization, intends to exemplify the dynamic relationship between art and culture through its exhibitions, publications, educational, and public programs. Her global collaborations and initiatives, such as the upcoming 100,000 sq.m cultural hub near Delhi’s airport, solidify her commitment to promoting Indian art on the world stage. Additionally, she has forged stellar collaborations with globally renowned museums. Including the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Madrid), The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), Tate Modern (London), Musée Des Arts Asiatiques (Nice), Sharjah Art Foundation (Sharjah), Barbican (London), and Musée Guimet (Paris). Beyond art, Kiran is a celebrated bridge player and a driving force behind the HCL International Bridge Championship.

Alongside her husband Shiv Nadar, she champions philanthropy through the Shiv Nadar Foundation, which has significantly impacted education in India by establishing institutions. Recognized globally for her contributions, she has received prestigious awards such as ‘Collector of the Year 2018’ and ‘Public Art of the Year.’ Her recent accolades, including the Padma Shri (2024) and the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur (2023) highlight her profound impact.

10. Dipali Goenka, Welspun Living Limited

“An Eloquent Leader: From Textile Industry Innovator to Empowering Change.“

Dipali Goenka, the CEO and MD of Welspun Living Limited, leads one of India’s largest home solutions companies. Her entry into Welspun Living marked a transformative shift. She successfully navigated and thrived in the traditionally male-dominated textile industry. She also earned widespread respect and admiration. Recognized as one of the Most Powerful Women in Business by Business Today and honored as a Changemaker by CNBC International, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership. A psychology graduate and Harvard alumnus, Dipali is a sought-after speaker on global platform, including the Fortune Innovation Forum in Hong Kong and the World Economic Forum in Davos, where she continues to inspire with her vision and accomplishments.

She is a visionary leader who has revolutionized the textile industry with her innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Under her leadership, Welspun Living has seamlessly integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. It pioneers eco-friendly production processes and renewable energy adoption to reduce its carbon footprint. Her efforts have propelled Welspun Living to ESG excellence, earning a top rank on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and an impressive S&P Global ESG Score of 66 in 2023.

This remarkable achievement places Welspun Living as the top-ranked Indian textile company and within the top 3% of companies globally in the industry. Her leadership reflects her strong belief that educating women uplifts entire communities. She champions women’s empowerment, emphasizing that when a woman earns, she enables her child to access education. Under her leadership, the female workforce at Welspun Living has grown significantly, from just 7% to nearly 27%. Her vision has driven Welspun Living to achieve over $1 billion in revenue for three consecutive years. From launching a brand to leading a global home solutions powerhouse, Dipali’s journey is a testament to her visionary leadership and determination.

11. Sarita Handa, Sarita Handa Exports Pvt. Ltd.

“It is exceedingly gratifying to be involved in a line of work that makes a difference for women.”

What do you get when you combine a keen eye for aesthetics, a passion for Indian craftsmanship, and a love for textiles? A craftsman-led, heritage-focused lifestyle brand that brought forth a revolution in the domestic and international luxury home design markets. Mrs. Sarita Handa, a powerhouse name in the Indian design field, started her journey into entrepreneurship from humble beginnings. Over the years, her love for domestic textile techniques grew. She also had the vision to create a brand that reinvigorated pride and interest in Indian textiles worldwide. So determined was Mrs. Handa that she put her life savings into starting the business. She launched the eponymous brand, Sarita Handa, in 1992, with nothing but grit and conviction.

Sarita Handa, the brand launched a much-lauded concept store in New Delhi towards the latter half of 2022. In line with the millennial philosophy of ‘less is more,’ this store is a fresh direction for the brand. The sprawling 11,000 sq ft space functions as a delightful sensorial experience. It allows customers to engage with each piece and visualize it as if it were their own. Today, this renaissance woman continues to make an impact in both her professional and personal lives.

12. Srila Chatterjee, Baro Market

“A Visionary Curator & Entrepreneur in India’s Design and Craft Scene.”

Srila’s journey has been incredibly varied and far from the beaten path. Every stage flowed into the other—and she considers it seamless! As an MBA who ran a film production house, she used her skills to build a company of excellent systems, people, and standards. Through her time running Highlight Films, she traveled, was exposed to designs of various kinds, and worked with her directors on art and set design.

Her management skills and time management starred in her role as Director of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (2004-5), where she redesigned the format to have 9 separate sections with separate curators, highlighting all the arts. In partnership with 3 others, she brought Blue Frog to life, a venue for live music like no other ever before or since, that was included in the list of the 10 Best Live Music Venues in the world in its first year!

She used that space to start her interest in curating markets, which so easily morphed into the experimental Highlight Living in her film office that morphed 2 years later into Baro, a stunning, big space that started as a store for handcrafted furniture, furnishings, lights, and accessories but became a hub for art, handcrafted wonders of all kinds, and the prototype for the markets that Baro Market now has all over the country. Her passion for indigenous craft and art has brought countless small brands and individuals into the mainstream with astonishing products that are universally loved. Baro Art is built on her belief in art being a joy that should be accessible to everyone.

13. Shabnam Gupta, The Orange Lane

“Creating Iconic Spaces and Experiences with The Orange Lane & Peacock Life.”

A designer by profession, a thinker by habit, and an inventor by choice, Shabnam Gupta is a visionary in the evolving design landscape. Her journey is fueled by an unrelenting passion for design and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. It redefines her identity through her creative endeavors.

The Orange Lane, founded in 2003, has grown into a powerhouse of design excellence. As a full-service interior design firm, it offers turnkey solutions and has successfully completed prestigious projects across India. Recognized with international awards, the firm has also made strides into global markets.

In 2010, Shabnam launched her first retail store in Mumbai, followed by a second in 2017. Adapting to the global pandemic, Peacock Life, is her home décor brand. It expanded its online presence in 2021 and introduced a retail warehouse in Karjat. Celebrating India’s heritage, tradition, and culture through contemporary design, Peacock Life combines bespoke interior services with artisanal craftsmanship. In 2023, the brand extended its footprint to Hyderabad with a new store.

In 2021, Shabnam also introduced Peacock Life Living, a nature-inspired retreat born from her love for the outdoors and a desire for soulful rejuvenation. Designed as her personal sanctuary, this serene getaway now welcomes guests to experience its tranquil charm.

14. Anjali Mody, Josmo Studio

“Specialising the art of interaction through design.”

As an artist in her personal life, she spent many years questioning her role as a designer and the role of design in the world. Intuitively, she knew that good design had the ability to influence how we live, love, and learn collectively. But after a decade of running Josmo, she now has the proof to back up these initial instincts.

After years of fine-tuning a process that allows for true creative freedom on the foundations of operational efficiency, she discovered that the best design comes from deep listening to the people we make with, the people we make for, and the culture we all coexist within. The context of being from India informs everything they do, whether it is investing the time and resources to upskill their craftsmen or researching the ergonomics of how people there actually live so their designs can do more than just beautify a space.

Today, Anjali’s dream extends beyond an intrinsic need for personal expression to a deeper desire to encourage others to cultivate design sensibilities that feel like a true extension of their own personalities. There is power in knowing ourselves better, and in her experience, design is a rare vehicle to help us do just that. She hopes that every interaction with Josmo across their products, people, and philosophies leaves you inspired, interested, and in tune with the space that surrounds you. She hopes every interaction makes design a greater source of joy in your daily life.

15. Vibha Dhawan, Teri

“Redefining India’s built environment sustainably.”

Dr. Vibha Dhawan has been working with the Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) since 1985. In 2021, she assumed the mantle of the Institute’s Director-General. Over her nearly four-decade career, Dr. Dhawan has established herself as a national as well as global thought leader in environmental research and sustainable development. Dr. Dhawan is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India, an Adjunct Professor at Michigan State University, and has been involved in various national and international committees.

A champion for sustainability, she has spearheaded the creation of the National Centre of Excellence in Green Port & Shipping and was instrumental in establishing the DBT-TERI Centre on Advanced Biofuels. Dr. Dhawan is also the President of GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment), an indigenous green building rating system of India. It was set up in 2007, with the combined efforts of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the Government of India, and TERI, to develop a rating system that suits Indian climate and construction practices.

16. Dr. Ananta Singh Raghuvanshi, NAREDCO Mahi

“Advocates for Gender Integration and Innovation in Real Estate.”

Dr. Ananta has been a corporate leader in the real estate industry for three decades. She is a PhD in Management and a distinguished Alumni Awardee of Miranda House, Delhi University. A speaker at IIT Kanpur, SRCC, Cambridge UK Asia Summit, and a TEDx speaker. She has been in CXO positions with DLF, EmaarMGF, Damac, and Experion developers. Dr. Ananta is the chairperson and founding member of NAREDCO Mahi, under the aegis of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. She is a certified independent board director. She is on the curriculum advisory board of Amity RICS and NICMAR Pune. A recipient of over 40 awards, a jury for prestigious industry awards, an author, singer, dancer, and pageant queen too. Furthermore, working extensively on gender integration, skilling, water saving, and startup accelerators in the real.

17. Kalpana Ramesh, The Rainwater Project

“Pioneering Water Conservation: Reviving Stepwells and Groundwater in Telangana.”

Kalpana spearheads the initiatives under the banner of the social enterprise, The Rainwater Project, by adopting a three-part sustainable plan involving government, community, and social enterprise. The Rainwater Project works towards groundwater improvement and water conservation in Hyderabad, which can easily be replicated in other cities to create sustainable cities for water. She devised and advocated a tripartite model involving community, government, and NGO to achieve sustainable goals. Her commitment to the cause is accentuated by her unique ability to connect her profession and passion for water and environmental conservation.

She is also an active member of the Hyderabad Design Forum (HDF), which is documenting the forgotten stepwells of Telangana. Kalpana was chosen as one of the seven women achievers who took over PM Modi’s social media accounts on Women’s Day in March 2020. Kalpana actively engages the community to drive towards vegetable gardens on terraces, composting of food waste, and water conservation with grey recycling. She has plans to save.

She has followed her vision of reconnecting people to their water source, be it lakes, borewells, stepwells, or rainwater harvesting measures. Kalpana has restored 16 stepwells and various water structures in Hyderabad and Telangana. Notable among them are the Kudikunta Lake at Kondapur, the stepwell at Gachibowli, the 17th-century historical stepwell at Bansilalpet, and Baaram Baavi at Narayanpet.

18. Karishma Swali, Chanakya School of Craft

“Weaving Art, Craft, and Cultural Revival.”

Immersed in art and craft from a young age and influenced by the philosophies of Rabindranath Tagore and Jiddu Krishnamurti, Karishma Swali has been at the forefront of preservation, revival and conservation of India’s intangible cultural heritage. Since 1998, she has led Chanakya International, a global textile house established in 1984.

Recognising a compelling need to address social, economic, and environmental challenges, Karishma Swali established the Chanakya Foundation in 2015. The foundation is committed to fostering cultural sustainability and holistic advancement through education, skill development, and dedicated efforts to preserve India’s rich artisanal heritage while promoting the arts. In 2016, Karishma Swali furthered this vision by founding the Chanakya School of Craft, a non-profit institution dedicated to empowering women through craft, culture, and creating a new autonomy for women.

Across her 25-year journey, Karishma Swali has collaborated with celebrated contemporary artists to forge an interdisciplinary language for contemporary art. In 2020, she and the graduated artisans of the Chanakya School of Craft collaborated with American feminist artist Judy Chicago to create 22 monumental hand-embroidered artworks, currently on display at the New Museum in New York. The following year, they partnered with French contemporary artist Eva Jospin to produce “Chambre De Soie” (Silk Room), a 40-meter immersive gallery.

19. Pooja Sood, Khoj

“Championing Experimental Art & Cultural Networks.”

Pooja Sood is a founding member and Director of Khoj International Artists’ Association, a not-for-profit society committed to experimentation and exchange in the visual arts in India. Under her leadership, Khoj has evolved from an annual event in 1997 into a dynamic institution, shaping experimental, interdisciplinary, and critical contemporary art practices across India and South Asia.

As Director of Khoj, Sood has played a key role in building a robust network across South Asia, resulting in the South Asian Network for the Arts (SANA). From curating contemporary art practices to vivid collaborations across South Asia, her contribution ranges in a wide spectrum. For over a decade, Sood has also led the ARThink South Asia (ATSA) arts management, policy, and research program, supporting a cadre of arts managers committed to the cause of capacity building in the South Asian region.

Her influence extends globally—she currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Prince Claus Foundation (2023-2026) and is a member of the International Programme Advisory Committee of IFACCA (2024-2025), as well as the Board of the Public Arts Trust of India, Jaipur. A distinguished cultural leader, she has been part of numerous international juries and was a Chevening scholar for the Clore Leadership Programme, UK (2009-2011). From 2015 to 2019, she also served as the Director-General of Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur.

20. Sahiba Madan, Insitu Design Studio

“Reviving India Craftsmanship With In-Situ.”

Sahiba completed her Bachelor’s in Architecture in 2012 from Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture, Mumbai, and subsequently worked in the industry for over two years. She is the founding partner of Kalakaari Haath (2014), a design studio specializing in home decor and furnishings. Sahiba has also served as a visiting design faculty at ISDI Parsons, Mumbai. Both Sahiba and Insitu have been recognized as one of the top 100 most influential architects and designers in India and other subcontinents in 2022, 2023, and 2024 by Architectural Digest (AD100). Additionally, Sahiba received a citation at the gold medal jury for her final-year design dissertation, “Hidden Hands: Refiguring Roles of the Architect and Craftsmen.

Moreover, INSITU DESIGN STUDIO, an architecture, interior, and space design practice founded by architect Sahiba Madan, is built on the timeless concept of crafting in place. The studio recognizes that traditional craftsmen possess invaluable skills and knowledge for utilizing traditional materials and technologies. In today’s building culture, where roles are often rigidly defined, craftsmen are frequently seen solely as an execution team, separate from the design process. Through our practice, we continuously strive to reconfigure the roles of both architects and craftsmen in every project.

21. Minnie Bhatt, Minnie Bhatt Design

“Crafting immersive dining experiences.”

Minnie Bhatt’s journey in interior design began unexpectedly but flourished into an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades. Her first project—designing the interiors of Mumbai’s Silver Beach Café in Juhu—set the stage for a dynamic path in hospitality design. Today, with over 100 restaurant projects to her name, Minnie has established herself as a leading name in the industry, shaping commercial and residential spaces with her distinctive vision.

Growing up in a heritage building in South Mumbai, surrounded by Art Deco architecture, she developed a deep appreciation for timeless design. Her approach is rooted in intuition, adaptability, and an acute understanding of her client’s needs. She ensures that every space she creates tells a unique story. From premium restaurants like PCO, Millo, and Ishaara to bespoke residences, Minnie’s work continues to push creative boundaries. With an insatiable passion for design, she remains energized and ever-evolving, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

22. Dr. Mala Singh, PEC Greening India

“Building green environments.”

Himachal Pradesh is home to many daughters who have distinguished themselves both in India and abroad, bringing pride to its roots and the nation. One such remarkable individual is Dr. Mala Singh, a leading expert in climate strategies, green buildings, net-zero approaches, carbon neutrality, ESG compliance, and sustainability solutions. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Singh has made significant contributions to various sectors, including building construction, healthcare, hospitality, educational institutes, warehouses, logistics facilities, industrial projects, government initiatives, and corporate sectors, and she has been awarded & recognized with multiple national & global awards.

Dr. Singh is the founder and director of PEC Greening India and the executive director of CSO Global Inc. USA. She also serves as the Chairperson of the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Mumbai Chapter and is an executive board member of IGBC (CII). Additionally, she is the Regional Director of FOCUS (Forum of Critical and Utility Services) and an advisory board member for several prestigious associations and institutions. Her extensive certifications include being an IGBC Fellow, GRIHA CP, LEED Green Associate, and GRI Assessor for sustainability reporting.

23. Swati Janu, Social Design Collaborative

“Works on issues of social justice from housing rights to gender inclusion.”

A cross-disciplinary professional in art, architecture, and writing, she focuses on themes of social justice and housing rights. She believes sustained collective action is a powerful medium for social change.

Swati Janu, founder of Social Design Collaborative, is an architect, activist, and artist. She works on issues of social justice, from housing rights to participatory planning. Her interdisciplinary practice combines community engagement with policy advocacy across Indian cities. For her critical spatial practice, Swati was recently awarded the Moira Gemmill Prize in Emerging Architecture 2022, which aims to create gender inclusion in architecture and urban design.

She believes it is essential to combine grassroots engagement and activism with policy advocacy for long-term impact. As such, she also works as a consultant in the domains of inclusive urban development, affordable housing, and participatory planning processes. She has written on urban issues ranging from inclusive public spaces to urban informality for CityLab, Scroll, Indian Express, and others, which, if you are curious, you can find on her profile. She also makes time to teach in alternate semesters, and if you have been a student, always feel free to reach out to her.

24. Upasana Makati, White Print

“Powerful Women Behind India’s First Lifestyle Magazine for the Visually Impaired.”

Upasana Makati is a founder and editor of White Print—India’s first English lifestyle magazine in Braille, started in 2013. One night, the idea was sown, leading to a vision that the visually impaired can read every morning and question why there is no magazine or newspaper that already exists in India. After extensive research and learnings, taking up the role to banish this parity, Upasana started White Print.

With fiery passion and a clear vision, she soon started connecting with people from the community, understanding their needs, and identifying the gaps in the ecosystem. But what kept her going was people encouraging her not to stop and give this vision a life—India’s first braille magazine.

Furthermore, White Print has collaborated with many recognized brands, pushing brands and other sectors to work more towards inclusivity. The magazine consists only of text. Alongside, they also have an alphabet book called Tactabet that uses poly-braille technology, where the image has tactile dots. They’ve also published accessible children’s storybooks (in text, braille, e-books, and audiobooks) to sensitize and sow seeds of inclusion in young minds. Run Saba, Run!, Look Out, Look Within, Flowers for Sunaina, Amay and the Braille Trail are titles published by White Print.

25. Aanchal Malhotra, Museum of Material Memory

“Preserving Memory Through History and Storytelling.”

Aanchal Malhotra is an award-winning oral historian and writer based in New Delhi. She is renowned for her work on storytelling, migration, and memory. She is the author of three critically acclaimed books—Remnants of a Separation, In the Language of Remembering, and The Book of Everlasting Things. Her work and methodology have strived to trace the long-lasting, cross-border, multi-generational impact of events like the 1947 Partition and WW1, creating a nuanced record of memory that transcends generalization and acknowledges the complexity of historical remembrance. She is also the co-founder of the Museum of Material Memory, a digital repository of family history and social ethnography told through heirlooms, collectibles, and objects of antiquity. Malhotra’s latest work is a debut novel titled The Book of Everlasting Things.

The Museum of Material Memory is a crowdsourced digital repository of the material culture of the Indian subcontinent, tracing family histories and social ethnography through heirlooms, collectibles, and objects of antiquity. It was co-founded in 2017 by Aanchal Malhotra and Navdha Malhotra. Its premise is to promote the preservation of memory infused within personal objects. It recognizes them as a significant resource in understanding culture and civilization. Moreover, the objects in the Archive are from or before the 1970s.

26. Nehal Bhatt, Studio Works

“Detail driven, distinctive-ness in her designs.”

Nehal Bhatt is a creative professional with a passion for furniture and interior design. Her journey began at CEPT University, where she completed her design education, and continued with a meaningful chapter of teaching at the same institution for nearly eight years. After her time there, Nehal practiced design in both Bangalore and Mumbai, further gaining valuable industry experience.

In 2012, driven by a desire to create furniture that truly honored the potential of materials, Nehal established Studioworks, a furniture design studio. She envisioned a design process that focused not only on the visual appeal but also on the properties of materials used. Moreover, her approach is iterative, constantly refining designs to achieve the most durable and desirable outcomes.

Nehal’s work focuses on eco-friendly practices, particularly through the use of reclaimed teakwood and green materials. Her work reflects her belief in design’s ability to positively impact both craft and the environment.

27. Shefalee Vasudev – Journalist, Author, & Therapist

“Penning Indian Fashion with New Perspectives.”

Shefalee’s journalistic career began with her writing for the Gujarat edition of The Times of India, the Sunday desk of The Navhind Times in Goa, The Asian Age in Delhi, and the India Today Group.

Shefalee later became an assistant editor at India Today, where she wrote about gender, society, and investigative features. After her extensive stint at India Today, which included impactful cover stories and long-form features on culture, health, and urban sexuality, Shefalee became the first editor of Marie Claire India, launched by the Outlook Group in 2006.

Her debut book, Powder Room: The Untold Story of Indian Fashion (Random House, 2012), is a definitive exploration of the Indian fashion industry. She later held senior editorial positions at The Indian Express and Mint Lounge before joining IMG Reliance (now RISE Worldwide) as the founding editor of The Voice of Fashion—India’s first digital-only magazine dedicated to fashion, culture, and design. Launched in 2018, The Voice of Fashion bridges India’s rich crafts and artisanal heritage with contemporary fashion, luxury, and technology, embodying Shefalee’s deep engagement with the intersection of dress, identity, and cultural discourse.

28. Arati Kumar-Rao, Photographer

“Creating critical conversation through her lens!”

Working across South Asia, Arati Kumar-Rao—an independent photographer, writer, and National Geographic Explorer—chronicles environmental degradation at cataclysmic levels. Her work sheds light on depleting groundwater, habitat destruction, and land acquisition for industry, revealing their devastating impact on biodiversity, common lands, and displaced communities.

Recognized among BBC’s 100 Influential and Inspiring Women in 2023, Arati is the author of Marginlands: Indian Landscapes On The Brink (Picador India, 2023), a critically acclaimed book shortlisted for both the Atta Galatta Bangalore Literature Festival and Tata Lit Live! Awards for First-Book Non-Fiction.

Her work has been featured in National Geographic Magazine, Emergence Magazine, BBC Outside Source, and leading Indian publications. Currently supported by a National Geographic grant, she is documenting forced human migration in India. When not on assignment, Arati divides her time between Bangalore and the Western Ghats, where she shares her home with three rescued cats.

29. Saniya Tadha, Interior Stylist

“Converting spaces into experiences.”

Saniya Tadha has been drawn to the creative world, starting with photography as a hobby over 8 years ago. Although she graduated as a chemical engineer from IIT Madras, she unexpectedly transitioned into space styling while styling her setups for photoshoots. Through a series of unforeseen events, this gradually turned into a full-time profession. While her formal education provided a strong foundation in design, it was the rollercoaster journey of real-world experience that taught her most of what she knows today, leading her to branch out as a style and aesthetics consultant.

Her work involves curating and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of spaces, often working independently and closely with interior designers as well as architects. She selects and arranges furnishings, decor, colors, and accessories to create visually appealing environments that reflect a particular style or mood. Her focus is on the finishing touches that transform a space, making it feel cohesive, stylish, and reflective of the client’s personality or the desired ambiance. She works in various settings, including homes, show houses, retail spaces, offices, and photoshoots, ensuring each space is both visually captivating and functional.

30. Pooja Khairnar, pk_iNCEPTiON

“Revitalizing architecture with identity, aspirations, and profound meaning.”

An architect, designer, and educator, Pooja Khairnar follows the ideology of responding to projects contextually, believing that architecture carries a profound responsibility and impacts every aspect of society. She is the founder and principal architect of Studio PK_iNCEPTiON, a multidisciplinary design practice established in 2014. Her work was based on some pertinent questions. Additionally, these were centered on factors like unsaid brief, critical regionalism, inclusive nature for built form, and multifunctional spaces.

For private habitable spaces or urban public projects, she strives to reduce the carbon footprint and maximize better usability with flexibility in built and unbuilt. She sees architecture as more than just function and comfort—it has the power to inspire and transform. While time is always limited, meaningful architecture can shape the world, and she believes one should never settle for less. To truly move and inspire, architecture must evolve with time, needs, and change, remaining timeless and rooted in a significant idea. Her approach is driven by the pursuit of a project’s essence. Moreover, each design challenge begins with uncovering its core values—context, user, and purpose—before shaping its physical form.