3rd March 2017, New Delhi – Le Meridien, 8 Windsor Place, Janpath, New Delhi
Mrs Ratan Kaul and Mrs Leher Sethi hosted the Indian Council for UN Relations "International Women's Day Awards" on 3rd March at Le Meridien in the presence of Mr. Kapil Mishra, Hon’ble Minister (Art, Culture & Languages/ Tourism) Govt. of National Capital Territory of Delhi. This is a much anticipated calendar event in New Delhi in its 10th anniversary edition which is a celebration of womanhood in all its myriad facets.
The event in the capital celebrated Women’s Day by awarding women achievers from different genres of life that have set an example for women across the globe by gaining expertise in their respective fields, while at the same time providing a solid platform for people willing to join a similar profession. It is one in a series of hi profile events showcasing the diverse culture, art, literature that our capital city has to offer for the discerning aesthete!
The event was organized in partnership with brands like Rabanna Couture, The Jehan and Indiabulls Home Loans with Cover Story, Episode, ShrilalMahal Empire Basmati Rice and Mantra Authentic Ayurveda as Gift Sponsors.
The guests were welcomed with a note by Mr. K.L. Malhotra, General Secretary - ICUNR which was followed by the felicitation of the Chief Guest and the Guests of Honour. The evening witnessed some power packed acceptance speeches along with encouraging and inspiring words from Hon'ble Minister Kapil Mishra in his keynote speech. The audience also had some fun time with the lucky draw which made them win beauty and fashion gift hampers.
The panel discussion steered towards the gurmehar Kaur debate towards the end. Also, Swati Maliwal stressed on the importance of protecting women from the abuse within the family.
The Awards presentation was preceded by a Panel discussion on “The Idea of India – Brand India & the Role of Women in Nation Building” with Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Naina Lal Kidwai, Shereen Bhan & Swati Maliwal as panellists.
Mrs Ratan Kaul is a very well known figure in New Delhi's cultural, social, diplomatic, business & political circles, an environmental activist and a writer. She has been recognized and awarded by many national and international organizations for her contribution and work as an
activist. Ms Leher Sethi is an entrepreneur, avid reader, writer and co-founder of Literature Corner. She has spoken at various events and conferences.
Ms Leher Sethi, the Official Co-ordinator for ICUNR said, “Even as we celebrate International Women’s Day to celebrate womanhood and pay tribute to the indomitable spirit of women across the globe, there are many who languish in fear in their homes, or outside, as gender parity remains a distant dream, in India. This is my humble opinion, and I wish and hope that this changes for the better. This year’s campaign theme is #BeBoldForChange and I hope we can forge a world where women can dare to be bold.”
Mr Neeraj Kumar of Le Magnifique events said, " It was an occasion to show our gratitude and respect for women and the unflinching spirit of womanhood. Congratulations to all the awardees "
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List of Awardees:
•Asha Devi for Women Empowerment
•Axelle Nicaise for India – EU Relations
•Evelyne Collin for Excellence in Banking
•Girija Krishan Varma for Excellence in Law
•H.E. Ms. Katabarumwe Ragine for excellence in Political Diplomacy
•Li Hong Ying for excellence in Social Diplomacy
•Payal S. Kanwar for Indo – French Releations
•Priya Sachdev for Excellence in Fashion
•Rekha Mehra for Excellence in Kathak
•Renu Hussain for Excellence in Poetry
•Shereen Bhan for Excellence in Journalism
•Dr. Surbhi Singh for Excellence in Social Work
•Swati Maliwal for Excellence in Social Activism