SheThePeople 40 Over 40 Awards: Meet The Winners

We live in a world where expectations of women are often as towering as the skyscrapers they strive to conquer, and acknowledgement and appreciation can sometimes seem as scarce as an oasis in a desert. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, there are those who not only excel in their careers but also manage to leave a lasting mark on society, inspiring others to reach for the stars regardless of age, gender, or societal expectations.

SheThePeople 40 Over 40 Awards acknowledges women who have touched numerous lives with their impactful work, challenging existing dynamics and ushering in a positive change in their fields of choice. Their work, past and present, needs to be celebrated, as they not only brought their unique gaze to their field but also encouraged other women to follow their dreams by helping them overcome inhibitions of age, gender, and other social stigmas. SheThePeople, in collaboration with Social Offline, brings the 40 over 40 Awards 2024, to put the spotlight firmly on those women who have taken the leap of faith, once they’ve crossed forty, to chase their dreams, to go for the jugular, to become super achievers.

SheThePeople's 40 Over 40 Awards 2024: Meet the Extraordinary Winners

1. Addite Malik 

 Addite Malik, a name that shines brightly without any introduction. From entertaining audiences on beloved TV shows like Shararat and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki to leading innovation in hospitality, she radiates versatility. With her seven bustling restaurants in Mumbai and one in Bengaluru, she's more than a businesswoman; she's a guiding light for women, showing them how to forge ahead fearlessly in their careers.

2. Adhuna Bhabani

Adhuna Bhabani isn't just a hairstylist; she's a living brand. From her iconic work in Bollywood to creating her own line of products and salons, she's become a force to be reckoned with. Since launching BBlunt in 2004, she's soared to new heights, styling for blockbuster films like Dil Dhadakne Do, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Dangal, Raaes, and over 50 more Bollywood projects, amassing a devoted following. Adhuna inspires us to pursue our passions relentlessly and carve our own path to success.

3. Alankrita Shrivastava 

Alankrita Shrivastava, screenwriter and director, is popularly known to defy norms with her acclaimed works like "Lipstick Under My Burkha" and "Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare." Her accolades, including the Films de Femmes Grand Prix and Filmfare nominations, testify to her impact. As a fervent advocate for marginalized voices, she fearlessly amplifies women's stories, inspiring us all to embrace our own narratives and break barriers.

4. Amrita Raichand 

Amrita Raichand, a versatile personality, wears many hats as a celebrity chef, former model, and TV host. Through "Mummy Ka Magic," she champions nutritious eating for families. As a TEDx speaker and active social media influencer, she spreads her culinary wisdom and promotes healthy lifestyles. Recognized as India's Culinary Ambassador, Amrita's recipes go beyond borders, uniting people worldwide through the joy of food.

5. Anindita Chatterjee

Anindita Chatterjee, a fearless traveler and blogger, embodies the spirit of courage and determination by leaving her corporate job to pursue her wanderlust. Having explored over 70 countries, she's been honored with prestigious awards like the Global Women of Worth Achievements (W.O.W) Award and featured on the 40 Under 40 Indian Achiever’s 2020 list. Recognized by LONELY PLANET as a Wonder Woman of Travel, her blog, Travel Chatter, not only shares adventures but also ignites the spark for others to chase their dreams without hesitation.

6. Anuradha Menon

Anuradha Menon, a pioneer in female stand-up comedy, captured hearts with her alter ego 'Lola Kutty' on Channel V. Despite film offers after her fame, she remains dedicated to theater. With acclaimed performances in plays like Zen Katha and Sammy, and directing films like "London, Paris, New York" and "Waiting,"  Menon exemplifies versatility and courage, breaking barriers in the entertainment industry with every step.

7.  Aparna Piramal Raje

Aparna Piramal Raje's journey seems like a picture of success, hailing from a well-known business family, married with two children, a published author, a popular columnist with a leading daily, and the CEO of a leading furniture company by profession, yet, behind the scenes, she battled bipolar disorder for two decades. In her bestseller "Chemical Khichdi: How I Hacked My Mental Health," she bravely shares her story, inspiring countless others to prioritize self-care and break the stigma surrounding mental well-being.

8. Deepika Mhatre 

Deepika Mhatre, once a humble housemaid navigating the complexities of survival, now commands the spotlight as a rising star in the comedy scene. Her journey from the shadows of domestic servitude to the forefront of stand-up comedy is nothing short of extraordinary. With her comedic genius and inspirational journey,  Mhatre has kept audiences on the hook as a stand-up comedian, proving that laughter truly is the best medicine, especially in the face of adversity.

9. Deepshikha Deshmukh  

Deepshikha Deshmukh effortlessly navigates various roles, from film production to entrepreneurship. With notable works like "Bellbottom," "Ganapath," and "Cuttpulli," she leaves her mark in Hindi cinema. As the founder of the skin-care brands Love Organically India and Love Veda Co., she inspires others to pursue their passions with dedication and creativity.

10. Dolly Jain 

Dolly Jain, a renowned saree and dupatta draper from Kolkata, caters to both everyday individuals and top celebrities. With her incredible speed, she can drape a saree in just 18.5 seconds, earning her a spot in the Limca Book of Records for showcasing 125 different styles. Now, with a record of 325, she's not just an entrepreneur but a trendsetter, reshaping perceptions of sarees and inspiring a new wave of enthusiasts with her innovative techniques.

11. Geetarsh Kaur

Geetarsh Kaur, the visionary behind The Skill School, empowers individuals through soft skills enhancement and image consultancy. Her TEDx talks inspire personal growth and self-discovery. As a model and entrepreneur, she's reshaping beauty norms and advocating for authentic self-expression.

12. Ishita Mookherjee 

Ishita Mookherjee, with over two decades of experience in strategic communications and PR, currently spearheads Global Corporate Communications at PDS Limited, a global fashion solutions company. Leading marketing strategies worldwide, she embodies the spirit of a 'go-getter' in her field, inspiring others to chase their ambitions with determination.

13. Dr Jaishree Sharad 

Dr. Jaishree stands as the sole Indian female on the Executive Board of the European Society of Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dermatology (ESCAD). Renowned as India's foremost celebrity dermatologist, with 23 years of experience, she's delivered over 500 lectures and 200 workshops. As the bestselling author of "Skin Rules" and "Skin Talks," she's passionate about sparking a skincare revolution in India, inspiring others to embrace healthy skin habits.

14. Kainaz Jussawalla

Kainaz Jussawalla, a renowned columnist, influencer, and prolific author, shines brightly in the literary world. With bestsellers such as "Coffee Days, Champagne Nights" and "Who Wants To Marry Kai Juicewalla?," she mesmerizes readers with her profound storytelling. As an executive editor and recipient of the Reader's Choice Global award, she leaves a mark in travel writing and lifestyle blogging. Hosting 'Chai with Kai' on YouTube, she spreads joy through celebrity interviews and lifestyle content, inspiring others to chase their dreams.

15. Khushnaz Ashdin Turner 

Known affectionately as "Kat Diaries" to her followers on Instagram, Turner wears many hats with ease—she's a mom, an entrepreneur, and an influencer. Her versatility shines through in everything she does. Through her work, she not only encourages people to be themselves but also  celebrates what makes each person unique.

16. Dr Manisha Mishra Goswami 

Dr. Manisha Mishra Goswami, an esteemed Ayurveda physician and medical adviser at Charak Pharma Pvt Ltd., seamlessly merges ancient wisdom with modern science. Through diverse platforms like social media and articles, she spreads Ayurvedic insights far and wide. As a practitioner blending traditional and contemporary medicine, she provides holistic solutions for overall well-being, inspiring others to embrace a balanced approach to health.

17. Mansi Zaveri 

Mansi Zaveri is the founder & CEO of Kidsstoppress.com, India’s go-to parenting and childcare discovery platform, reaching 10 million digital users monthly. Recognized in Business World's 40 Under 40: Content, her journey is fueled by passion and perseverance. Under her leadership, Kidsstoppress.com has flourished into a thriving brand, offering online courses for kids and women entrepreneurs. Hosting India’s First Parenting Original podcast on Jio Saavn, with over 1.5 million streams in just 6 months, she's inspiring countless families and entrepreneurs alike.

18. Maria Goretti

Maria Goretti's journey from maternal instinct to culinary mastery is truly inspiring. Leaving her comfort zone, she pursued her passion at Tante Marie in London, earning her Cordon Bleu Certificate. As an Indian MTV VJ and host of acclaimed TV shows like "Do It Sweet" and "I Love Cooking," she's shared her love for food with the world. Maria's bestselling books and her Instagram platform, "The Maria Goretti Corner," showcase her culinary wisdom, encouraging others to follow their passions fearlessly.

19. Mandira Bedi 

Renowned actress and cricket presenter, Mandira Bedi, has captured hearts both on the silver screen and on the field. From her memorable roles in iconic films like "DDLJ" to her groundbreaking stint as a cricket presenter, Bedi has redefined versatility and charisma. Her journey serves as an inspiration  to women everywhere, proving that passion knows no boundaries.

20. Meghna Pant

Meghna Pant, an Indian author, journalist, and speaker, embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery. Leaving her successful career as a business news anchor to pursue writing full-time, she followed her passion back to India. Along the way, she's garnered numerous accolades for her literary contributions and advocacy for gender issues. From winning the Muse India National Literary Awards Young Writer Award,  being long-listed for the Frank O’Connor International Award, to the creation of "Feminist Rani" and subsequent publication in collaboration with SheThePeople founder Shaili Chopra, it inspires us all to chase our dreams relentlessly. 

21. Mini Mathur 

Mini Mathur, a celebrated Indian television host, actor, and model, stands as an icon in women's health advocacy. From hosting the Indian reality singing contest Indian Idol for six seasons to captivating audiences on MTV India, her versatility knows no bounds. Her portrayal in the Amazon original series Mind the Malhotras earned her 7 Best Actor awards, showcasing her talent and dedication.  An icon in the world of entertainment and women's health advocacy, Mini Mathur's infectious charm has endeared her to audiences across the nation as a television host, actor, and voice for women's wellness. 

22. Mona Singh

Mona Singh, known for her breakout role in the 2000s soap opera "Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin," has evolved into a prominent figure in celebrated Hindi films and series like "Laal Singh Chaddha" and "Made In Heaven." With a career spanning two decades, her journey in showbiz reflects her versatility and willingness to explore diverse mediums, inspiring others to embrace new opportunities and strive for excellence in their own pursuits.

23. Neeru Saini

A digital creator, passionate dancer, fitness enthusiast, biker, and educator, Neeru Saini defies categorization. At 52, with a substantial Instagram following, she shares her energetic performances, such as those to "Suru Ru," which ignite enthusiasm and inspire over 314K followers. Her dynamism and zest for life inspire others to embrace their passions without reservation.

24. Niyati Nagda

With nearly two decades of digital marketing expertise, Niyati Nagda fuels transformative campaigns with her leadership. For over six years, she's been at the helm of Abbott's pharmaceutical business in India, spearheading innovation and setting a stellar example. Under her guidance, she's led the digital marketing efforts for both Chronic and Acute therapy at EPD India, showcasing her skillset to drive impactful change in healthcare.

25. Palki Malhotra 

Palki Malhotra's impact on Indian television is truly undeniable, with hits like ‘Dill Mill Gayye‘ and ‘Dil Dostii Dance‘ under her belt. Now, she continues to make waves with her latest creation, ‘Campus Beats’. A master storyteller, Palki's work has not only captivated audiences globally but also inspired countless aspiring creators to share their own stories with the world.

26. Pallavi Barnwal

After a decade as a management consultant, Pallavi Barnwal was inspired by the lack of awareness and support around intimacy and sexuality to embark on her journey as a sexuality educator. Her mission is to empower both couples and individuals to break free from sexual shame and discover joy in their sexuality, spreading positivity and liberation along the way. A pioneer in the area of intimacy education, she is keen to foster deeper connections and understanding in relationships and  empowers individuals to embrace vulnerability and intimacy.

27. Rajeshwari Sachdev 

Rajeshwari Sachdev, renowned for her award-winning performance in Shyam Benegal's film "Sardari Begum," is a multifaceted artist with a rich blend of tradition and innovation. From co-hosting the beloved Zee TV show "Antakshari" to excelling as an actor, classical dancer, singer, and advocate for Ayurveda, she epitomizes cultural preservation and adaptation. Rajeshwari's journey inspires us to embrace our heritage while embracing change, showcasing the beauty of evolution in art and life.

28. Roopali Aggarwal

Roopali Agrawal, a highly successful makeup artist with over a decade of experience, has brought joy to countless women through her expert skills. Whether at your preferred location or in her studio, she ensures a flawless beauty transformation, making every bride feel radiant. Transitioning from architecture to skincare and makeup, Roopali embodies the essence of reinvention. Her inspiring journey reminds us to embrace change and pursue our passions without any inhibitions. 

29. Sapna Bhavnani 

Sapna Bhavnani, renowned celebrity hairstylist and former Bigg Boss 6 contestant, has left a lasting mark in Bollywood with her decades of expertise. Beyond hairstyling, she's a prolific Producer/Director of the award-winning documentary "Sindhustan" and founder of Wench Films, empowering the female gaze. Her pioneering spirit led to the creation of Wench Film Festival, India's first Horror Film Festival, spotlighting 268 women. As a celebrity hairstylist, writer, photographer, and entertainer, she continues to push the boundaries of creativity and self-expression.

30. Shamita Shetty 

Shamita Shetty is not only an Indian actress but also an interior designer. She stepped into acting with the romantic drama "Mohabbatein" in 2000 and continued to shine in films like "Bewafaa" (2005) and "Cash" (2007). Alongside acting, Shamita pursued her passion for interior design, founding her own company, Golden Leaf Interiors. Despite challenges, Shamita's versatility and resilience have kept her in the limelight, leading to her recent appearance in the OTT version of the reality show "Bigg Boss."

31. Shatbhi Basu

India's first female bartender, Shatbhi Basu has shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail in the world of mixology. From humble beginnings to establishing her own bartending academy, Shatbhi's journey is an example of her determination and passion for her craft.With the STIR Academy of Bartending, Shatbhi has changed the game for women mixologists in India.

32. Shristi Behl Arya

With over three decades of experience in the film industry, Shristi Behl Arya is a seasoned producer known for her commitment to storytelling. As the CEO of Phantom Films, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the world of Indian cinema. Srishti also served as the Vice President (Digital and Television) of the Producers Guild of India. She also earned accolades for serving on the jury for the International Emmys (International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences) in 2014 and 2016.

33. Shwetha Bhatia 

Nourishing bodies and minds with her expertise in nutrition and entrepreneurship, Shwetha is an inspiration in the world of health and wellness. Also a columnist and a fitness athlete, Bhatia was presented with the Exceptional Women of Excellence Award 2017 by the Women Economic Forum. With mental health being a part of her practice, through her NGO ‘Talk To Me’, she decided to go forward in helping a population that is not only struggling with mental health issues but also with access and affordability. 

34. Smriti Mehra 

Mehra is an experienced revenue head with a demonstrated history of working in the media industry across mediums. Currently working as the CEO - of English and Business News for Network18 Media. Subhasree Basu-  has been a media professional for 15 years in the print and television space. Handling a roster of corporations from diverse fields.

35. Srila Chatterjee

After a successful career in the advertising films industry, Srila Chatterjee embarked on a new journey as an entrepreneur. Her venture, BARO, reflects her vision of seamlessly merging aesthetics, ethics, and ergonomics, making her an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. BARO Market brings together artists, craftsmen and designers from all over India who work together to create beautiful things that are relevant and exciting for today’s living.

36. Subhasree Basu

A veteran in the world of media, Subhasree's experience spans over 15 years across print and television platforms. Her expertise in communications has been instrumental in shaping narratives and fostering understanding in diverse fields.  With Mumbai-based Hungry Cat Kitchen, Basu is bringing the essence of slow-cooked comfort food to the restaurant scene in India.

37. Dr Sudeshna Ray

A Mumbai-based gynaecologist, Dr Sudeshna Ray simplifies complex women's health issues and champions new ideas in healthcare. Her dedication to advancing women's health and well-being has earned her widespread respect and admiration, setting new standards of care in the medical community.  Dr Ray, also the Chief Medical Director at Gytree Women’s Health Platform, has had an impressive experience in the field for over three decades. She is also a Senior Consultant at Jaslok Hospital, Reliance & Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai. Member of Royal College of Ob-Gyn, London

38. Sudha Menon 

An author and motivational speaker, Sudha Menon's work goes beyond boundaries, inspiring women from all walks of life to pursue their passions and fulfil their potential. Through her writing workshop series, 'Get Writing and Writing With Women,' she empowers aspiring writers to find their voice and share their stories with the world.  Some of Menon’s popular include Recipes For Life, Feisty At Fifty and Gifted among others. Menon has been an integral part of SheThePeople Community over the past nine years as a speaker at our Women Writers’ Fest.

39. Vishakha Verma

Vishakha Verma is a Dance Movement Therapist. She provides a platform for all-inclusive dance forms to help people strengthen their confidence and be free with their expressions. She is the director and owner of Vishakha’s Dance Academy in Dubai. Verma has taught over 250 youngsters with disabilities. Her videos of having people with disabilities dance to tunes have caught the attention of social media users and earned her praise.

40. Zainab Patel

A powerful and articulate speaker, Zainab Patel serves as the National Manager of Health & Human Rights at the UNDP country office in India. Her tireless advocacy for health equity and human rights has made her a formidable force for change, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and driving progress towards a more inclusive society.

So here's to the winners of SheThePeople's 40 Over 40 Awards 2024. May your achievements inspire countless others to dream big, reach for the stars, and never let age, gender, or societal norms hold them back. After all, the world is full of possibilities for those bold enough to seize them, and these women are living proof that greatness knows no bounds.