The second edition of ‘Shakti, the Inner Story’ took place at JW Marriott on the 30th of September, 2019. Once again, under the charge of Window On Travel’s leading ladyDr. Tehnaz Dastoor and DigitalBrandz’ Ritusmita Biswas, in collaboration with the theatre artist Ramanjit Kaur, the event showcased the brilliance of five remarkable individuals who were celebrated for their roles in empowering women and quietly changing the world with their philanthropy.

The carefully curated audience comprised of Consul Generals, industrialists, theatre and dance artists, NGOs, fashion designers and media professionals among others. A wide range of spirits and hors d’oeuvres were circulated both prior to and following the evening performances. Dr. Dastoor thanked her sponsors which included JW Marriott and Mr. Gaurav Singh for being the venue partner, Tanishq (for being the most-trusted jewelry brand), Nova (with their stylish eyewear for both men and women), Century Ply for always supporting women’s issues), LG, and 91.9 Friends FM and Jimmy Tangree as the radio partners and finally Harper’s Bazaar as its on-line magazine partner.

The event began with an evocation to the goddess Shakti, which was particularly compelling so close to the eve of Durga Pujo. A terrific musical performance by NamitBajoria’s band followed leading to a dhak-like crescendo which mesmerized the audience, kindling the Pujo spirit within the audience.The celebrations ceremony began soon after, where the awardees were all introduced by thoughtfully conceptualized video clippings of their life’s work that was geared towards making women feel more confident and powerful in society.

AnanyaChakraborti, a child-rights activist and chairperson of the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights was awarded for her contribution towards making the world a kinder and safer place for children by making them aware of their rights, and aiding them in their education.

Neena Singh, founder of Akshar and the DishaFoundation was awarded for creating a unique environment for holistic development of children and for her outstanding work with educating children from underprivileged backgrounds, and those with special needs.

NamitBajoria, owner of Kutchina, was felicitated for his inconspicuous but sincere philanthropic organization that coaches women of stigma and economically challenged backgrounds through the world of business, urging them to be entrepreneurs.

Leena Kejriwal, social media sensation due to her ‘Missing’ campaign, was recognized for her tremendous achievement in working with missing girls that are trafficked into the flesh trade and the like.

Finally, Alokananda Roy, dancer and transgender activist, was awarded for her momentous efforts in trying to rehabilitate prison inmates and using dance as a means of acceptance to communicate with them, later taking on both ex-convicts and transgenders in her performances.

The ceremony ended with a breath-taking dance recital by Alokananda Roy and her students, that was also goddess themed like the essence of the event.

The evening was moving, inspiring and informative. It not only celebrated the greatness of four powerful females and one extremely sensitive and supportive male in empowering women and making them feel comfortable in their own skin while forging a path for themselves, but also taught the audience that the world needs to be more accommodating to all women, and give them opportunities because they are booming with potential.

The second edition of ‘Shakti, the Inner Story’ took place at JW Marriott on the 30th of September, 2019. Once again, under the charge of Window On Travel’s leading ladyDr. Tehnaz Dastoor and DigitalBrandz’ Ritusmita Biswas, in collaboration with the theatre artist Ramanjit Kaur, the event showcased the brilliance of five remarkable indi