Bharat Gaurav Mr. Randhir Thakur - Entrepreneur
Mr. Randhir Thakur is a respected entrepreneur and social contributor with more than three decades of professional and business experience in the United States. Over the years, he has built his journey through hard work, resilience, practical thinking, and a strong commitment to family, community, and society. His experience spans multiple industries, including information technology, restaurant operations, hospitality, and emerging infrastructure development initiatives connected to India.
Having lived in the United States for over 30 years, Mr. Thakur has developed a strong understanding of global business practices, multicultural work environments, and the value of disciplined entrepreneurship. His journey reflects the spirit of an Indian-origin business leader who has grown professionally in the U.S. while remaining deeply connected to his Indian roots, culture, and community values.
Mr. Thakur has been actively involved in the IT industry for many years, where he gained strong experience in business development, staffing, client relations, technology services, and operational management. Through his work in the IT sector, he has helped connect talent with opportunities and contributed to the growth of organizations by supporting their technology and workforce needs. His ability to understand people, build relationships, and create business opportunities has been one of the important strengths of his professional journey.
In addition to IT, Mr. Thakur has also gained valuable experience in the restaurant and hotel industries. These sectors gave him direct exposure to customer service, team management, operations, financial planning, and community engagement. His work in hospitality strengthened his belief that every business succeeds only when it serves people with sincerity, quality, and responsibility. This practical experience across different industries has shaped him into a versatile entrepreneur with a broad understanding of business challenges and opportunities.
Today, Mr. Thakur is also focused on contributing to infrastructure development initiatives in India. His interest in this area reflects his larger vision of supporting long-term economic growth, employment generation, and nation-building. He believes that India’s future growth will be driven by strong infrastructure, education, technology, and responsible investment. Through his business vision, he hopes to participate in meaningful projects that can create opportunities for future generations and contribute to India’s progress.
Beyond business, Mr. Thakur has always believed in giving back to society. He has supported social and community organizations, including the American Telugu Association and Seva International, in their efforts toward education, community welfare, humanitarian service, and cultural support. His involvement with such organizations reflects his belief that successful individuals have a responsibility to support society in whatever way they can.
His social contributions include support for educational causes, assistance to underprivileged students, community development programs, and help during times of need. He has shown interest in initiatives that provide practical support to people, especially where education, healthcare, and emergency assistance are involved. For him, social service is not only about financial contribution, but also about connecting people, creating awareness, and encouraging others to participate in meaningful causes.
Mr. Thakur is also known for encouraging a culture of giving within the community. He believes that when people come together with good intentions, even small efforts can create a large impact. Whether through supporting social organizations, helping community programs, or guiding individuals toward useful resources, he has always tried to contribute in a meaningful and practical way.
His personal and professional journey has been shaped by many challenges, but his strength lies in his ability to keep moving forward with courage and determination. He values honesty, responsibility, family values, and service to others. These principles continue to guide his work and his vision for the future.
Mr. Randhir Thakur’s life reflects the journey of an entrepreneur who has built experience across industries, stayed connected to his cultural roots, and remained committed to social responsibility. His story is not only about business success, but also about using experience, resources, and relationships to create positive change.
Through his work in IT, hospitality, infrastructure vision, and community service, Mr. Thakur continues to inspire others to think beyond personal success and contribute to society. His journey stands as an example of resilience, integrity, and purposeful leadership.
With a strong foundation in business and a deep commitment to social impact, Mr. Randhir Thakur continues to work toward creating lasting value for communities, future generations, and the broader society.
Bharat Gaurav Prof. Dr. Nirmala S. Mourya
Prof. (Dr.) Nirmala S. Mourya stands as a towering figure in the field of higher education and Hindi literary scholarship, whose exemplary contributions have left an indelible mark on academia and society. A visionary leader, prolific writer, and devoted educationist, she has dedicated her life to the advancement of knowledge, the promotion of Indian languages, and the empowerment of generations through education.
Born on 5th August 1958 in Unnao (Uttar Pradesh), Prof. Mourya pursued her academic excellence at Banaras Hindu University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Science, followed by a Master’s degree, Ph.D., and later a D.Litt. in Hindi Literature. Her scholarly work, particularly in the domain of Bhakti literature and comparative studies, reflects intellectual depth, originality, and a profound engagement with India’s rich literary heritage.
With an illustrious academic career spanning over 30 years, Prof. Mourya served with distinction at the Higher Education and Research Institute, Dakshin Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha, Madras—an Institution of National Importance—where she held key positions including Professor, Head of Department, and Registrar. Her pioneering efforts significantly strengthened the foundation of Hindi education in South India, inspiring thousands of students to embrace the language as a medium of learning, livelihood, and cultural connection. At a time when Hindi learning in South India faced structural and cultural challenges, Prof. Mourya emerged as a pioneering force, dedicating her life to the promotion and popularization of Hindi as a language of opportunity and empowerment. Her efforts enabled countless students to pursue careers in government services, banking, railways, education, and administrative sectors, thereby establishing Hindi not merely as a subject, but as a viable profession and means of livelihood. Her work significantly bridged the linguistic divide between North and South India, fostering national unity through language.
An accomplished mentor and guide, she has supervised an extraordinary number of research scholars, with over 90 M.Phil., 89 Ph.D., and 6 D.Litt. degrees awarded under her guidance. Her scholarly contributions include more than 200 research papers, Elevan Edited Book and ten notable book publications encompassing novels, poetry, literary criticism, and cultural discourse, thereby enriching the corpus of Hindi literature.
Her tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, Jaunpur(U.P.) (2020–2023), was marked by visionary leadership and transformative reforms. Under her stewardship, the university achieved the prestigious A+ accreditation from NAAC, implemented the National Education Policy (2020), established Centres of Excellence, strengthened research ecosystems, and introduced progressive digital and administrative innovations. Her dynamic leadership elevated the institution to new heights of academic excellence and national recognition.
Prof. Mourya has also rendered invaluable service in academic governance as a member of key statutory bodies, including the Executive Council of Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University and the Academic Council of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya. As a NAAC Peer Team member and academic expert, she has contributed significantly to quality assurance and policy development in higher education across India.
A distinguished ambassador of Indian language and culture, she has actively promoted Hindi at national and international platforms, including the World Hindi Conference in New York(2007). Her contributions to the translation of Tamil Sangam literature into Hindi stand as a testament to her commitment to fostering linguistic harmony and cultural integration.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Prof. Mourya has been the recipient of numerous prestigious honours at state, national, and international levels. These include the Hindi Ratna Award, Acharya Kshemendra Sahitya Samman, Swami Vivekananda Sharda Samman, the internationally acclaimed Pablo Neruda Award and honoured by Indian – Norwegian cultural Forum, Oslo Norway – Aug 2009 for contribution in field of Research and Comparative Study of literature. She has also been honoured by the Governor of Tamil Nadu and several eminent institutions for her outstanding achievements in education, research, and literary excellence.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Prof. Mourya is deeply committed to social upliftment and women’s empowerment. She has tirelessly worked to support economically disadvantaged students, encourage women to resume education, and promote self-reliance through knowledge and skill development. Her compassionate and inclusive approach has transformed countless lives, reflecting her enduring commitment to nation-building.
A revered scholar, inspiring mentor, and transformative leader, Prof. (Dr.) Nirmala S. Mourya embodies the highest ideals of education, scholarship, and service. Her distinguished journey continues to inspire the academic community and stands as a beacon of excellence, dedication, and visionary leadership.
Bharat Gaurav Ms. Rita Sagrani - Healer Ayurvedic Wellness
Rita Sagrani is a distinguished entrepreneur and wellness visionary whose life’s journey reflects an extraordinary blend of heritage, enterprise, and purposeful transformation. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and a lifelong commitment to meaningful contribution.
Born in Alexandria, Egypt, to Indian parents, Rita was raised within a family deeply rooted in the silk trade. Her father and grandfather were respected merchants and proprietors of Bombay Bazaar, a store that served as both a business and a cultural bridge for the Indian community abroad. These early influences instilled in her a strong sense of enterprise, cultural identity, and respect for tradition.
At the age of two, Rita returned to Pune, India, with her mother to pursue an English education. She was educated at the Convent of Jesus and Mary, an institution that played a formative role in shaping her values of discipline, integrity, and quiet determination. She later trained as a school teacher and began her professional life in education, a path that nurtured her natural ability to connect with people and contribute meaningfully to their growth.
In 1969, following her marriage, Rita migrated to Australia—an experience that marked the beginning of a new chapter defined by courage and adaptability. Arriving in a new country with limited familiarity, she embraced the challenges of building a life from the ground up. After a brief period in teaching, her entrepreneurial spirit began to take form.
What began as a modest retail shop in Kings Cross, Sydney—selling Beatles shirts, incense, and fashion—soon evolved into a thriving business. Guided by intuition, creativity, and a strong work ethic, Rita expanded this single store into a network of successful retail outlets across Sydney, later extending into New Zealand and South Africa. Her ventures reflected not only commercial success but also an ability to anticipate cultural trends and connect with a diverse and evolving customer base.
This momentum culminated in the creation of Orientique, an iconic Australian fashion brand that would go on to achieve national and international recognition. Under Rita’s leadership, Orientique became known for its distinctive aesthetic and quality, with representation in over 400 stores across Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Over a distinguished 33-year career in the fashion industry, she built a brand and a legacy defined by vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial excellence.
Yet, beyond business success, Rita’s journey has been guided by an inner quest for deeper purpose. In a significant and courageous transition, she chose to step away from the commercial world to pursue a path aligned with holistic wellbeing and healing.
She went on to establish an Ayurvedic centre in Bondi Junction, Sydney, dedicated to offering authentic Indian Ayurvedic practices to the local community. For over 14 years, the centre has served as a sanctuary for healing, grounded in the ancient science of Ayurveda and supported by highly trained doctors and practitioners. Under Rita’s guidance, it has become a trusted and respected space, known for its integrity, authenticity, and commitment to excellence.
Rita remains deeply devoted to Ayurveda and holds profound respect for the knowledge, skill, and dedication of the practitioners she works alongside. She attributes the centre’s enduring success not only to this expertise but also to the trust and heartfelt gratitude of the clients it serves—an ongoing source of inspiration for her and her team.
Her life’s work stands as a testament to the power of reinvention, the courage to follow one’s inner calling, and the ability to bridge tradition with modern enterprise. From fashion to wellness, from commerce to healing, Rita Sagrani’s journey reflects a rare depth of vision and purpose.
- As she reflects on her journey, Rita shares, “Honesty and integrity have always been my compass. I have trusted them in every decision, and they have never once failed me.”
Bharat Gaurav Dr. Ram Savani - MD Savani Heritage Conservation
Dr. Ram Savani is the Managing Director of Savani Heritage Conservation and one of the leading figures in the field of heritage restoration and conservation in India today. A civil engineer by education and a conservationist by passion, he represents a rare blend of technical expertise, visionary leadership and deep respect for India’s cultural legacy. Honoured with a Doctorate in Conservation from IEMS, Dr. Savani has dedicated more than two decades of his life to preserving India’s architectural heritage through scientific conservation practices, traditional craftsmanship and sustainable restoration methodologies.
Coming from a family deeply connected with craftsmanship and conservation, Dr. Ram Savani transformed inherited traditional knowledge into a professionally managed and nationally respected conservation enterprise. Under his leadership, Savani Heritage Conservation has emerged as one of India’s most recognized heritage conservation organizations, known for handling highly complex and historically significant restoration projects across the country.
Today, the organization has successfully restored and conserved more than 400 monuments and heritage structures across 22 states and union territories of India. The company’s work spans forts, palaces, temples, churches, colonial-era structures, museums and culturally significant heritage sites. What makes this achievement remarkable is not only the scale of work, but also the diversity of architectural styles, materials and conservation challenges addressed over the years.
Among the most iconic projects executed under Dr. Savani’s leadership is the restoration of the historic Cellular Jail in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, one of India’s most emotionally significant freedom movement landmarks. The company has also undertaken restoration works at Mumbai’s celebrated Rajabai Clock Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage structure admired globally for its Gothic architectural excellence.
Another major contribution has been the conservation works associated with the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, a place deeply linked to Mahatma Gandhi and India’s independence movement. The project focused on preserving the emotional, architectural and historical authenticity of one of the nation’s most sacred landmarks.
Under his guidance, the organization has also worked on the restoration of Pratapgad Fort in Maharashtra, one of the most historically important forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In addition to this, the company has restored more than 20 iconic temples across Maharashtra, reviving traditional lime technologies, indigenous materials and heritage craftsmanship techniques that are slowly disappearing in modern construction culture.
In Chennai, the restoration of the historic Victoria Public Hall stands as another example of Dr. Savani’s commitment toward preserving India’s architectural legacy. The company has also contributed to conservation works at Sanskar Kendra in Ahmedabad, designed by the legendary architect Le Corbusier. These projects reflect the organization’s capability to work across varied architectural periods while maintaining historical integrity and authenticity.
Under Dr. Ram Savani’s leadership, Savani Heritage Conservation has earned 12 UNESCO awards and more than 65 national and international recognitions for excellence in conservation and restoration. Among the most prestigious honours received are the Mahatma Gandhi Samman Award at the House of Commons in London and the Jewel of India Award at the United States Capitol.
Recently, Savani Heritage Conservation created history on national television through Shark Tank India, where the company secured the highest revenue deal of the season. This milestone brought unprecedented recognition to the heritage conservation industry and demonstrated how cultural preservation can also become a symbol of innovation, entrepreneurship and national pride.
What truly distinguishes Dr. Ram Savani is the philosophy with which he approaches conservation. For him, heritage restoration is not merely about repairing structures, it is about reviving identity, preserving collective memory and safeguarding the wisdom of generations.
The organization operates on strong core values personally championed by Dr. Savani: Client Centricity, a Solution-Based Approach, Impact-Focused Leadership, Commitment and Accountability, and the preservation of Historic Authenticity. He strongly advocates for like-to-like restoration methods, traditional materials and conservation practices that preserve the true essence of historic structures.
Beyond engineering and conservation, Dr. Ram Savani is also a student of Indian philosophy, Western philosophy and the Bhagwat Geeta. His philosophical understanding adds a deeper dimension to his work, reminding people that monuments are not merely buildings, but symbols of identity, wisdom and civilization.
Today, Dr. Ram Savani continues to lead with an ambitious vision to restore monuments across every state of India and contribute toward making India the heritage tourism hub of the world. Through conservation, research, training and awareness, he aims to ensure that India’s historic legacy continues to inspire future generations with pride and purpose.
Bharat gaurav Mr. Shunmuga G. Raja MD Rightway Health
Dr. G. Shunmuga Raja stands as a visionary leader, an inspiring mentor, and a pioneering force in the health and wellness industry. As the Managing Director of Rightway Health International Pvt. Ltd., he has redefined the landscape of natural healthcare and direct selling through his unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and human well-being.
With a strong academic foundation, Dr. Raja holds a Doctorate in Network Marketing along with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature. His intellectual curiosity and passion for holistic health led him to explore ancient Siddhar traditions—an area he has researched extensively for over two decades. This deep-rooted knowledge of traditional healing systems, combined with modern scientific understanding, became the cornerstone of his mission to create sustainable, natural solutions for a healthier society.
Driven by the belief that true wellness goes beyond the absence of disease, Dr. Raja has consistently advocated for preventive healthcare and natural living. His research into Siddhar texts uncovered powerful natural formulations that strengthen human cells, support internal balance, and promote overall vitality. By integrating this ancient wisdom with contemporary innovation, he has developed products that address modern health challenges without reliance on harmful chemicals.
Recognizing the growing global demand for accessible and effective wellness solutions, Dr. Raja founded Rightway Global Marketing on December 3, 2020. What began as a focused initiative offering food supplements, agricultural products, and essential hygiene solutions soon evolved into a rapidly expanding enterprise built on trust, affordability, and impact. Building on this success, he established Rightway Health International Pvt. Ltd. to scale research, manufacturing, and global outreach.
Under his dynamic leadership, the company has emerged as a leading name in the food supplement and network marketing industry. Rightway Health International is distinguished by its dual mission: promoting physical well-being while enabling financial independence. Through an inclusive and empowering business model, individuals across the country are provided opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods as distributors, thereby creating a ripple effect of economic growth and self-reliance.
Dr. Raja’s influence extends far beyond entrepreneurship. He is widely regarded as a mentor in the direct selling industry, inspiring countless individuals to pursue personal and professional growth. His leadership style emphasizes ethical practices, continuous learning, and a strong sense of purpose, which has contributed significantly to the credibility and growth of the sector.
His remarkable contributions have earned him national and international recognition. In a significant acknowledgment of his expertise and leadership, Dr. Raja was appointed as a Consultative Committee Member of the Food Corporation of India—an honour that reflects his role in shaping conversations around nutrition, food systems, and public welfare at the national level.
Rightway Health International has also been the recipient of numerous prestigious accolades, underscoring its impact and excellence. These include the Holistic Health and Financial Empowerment Award by The Economic Times, the Health Care Supplement and Network Marketing Award by Navabharat, the Health Care Product of 2024 recognition by Bharat24, and the Excellence in Healthcare, Marketing and Customer Satisfaction Award by India News. The company has also been honoured as one of the Fastest Growing Indian Companies by the International Achievers Conference, received the Icons of India 2024 recognition, and earned the distinguished Hind Rattan and Mahatma Gandhi Leadership Award by the NRI Welfare Society UK at Oxford University, London.
These recognitions not only highlight the organization’s commitment to innovation and quality but also reinforce its position as a trusted name in global wellness. More importantly, they reflect Dr. Raja’s vision of creating solutions that are both impactful and accessible to people from all walks of life.
Looking ahead, Dr. G. Shunmuga Raja envisions Rightway Health International as a global leader in natural healthcare. His long-term strategy focuses on expanding international presence, fostering research collaborations, and building a worldwide community dedicated to health, wellness, and financial empowerment. He continues to drive initiatives that bridge traditional knowledge with modern science, ensuring that the benefits of holistic living reach a global audience.
At the heart of his journey lies a powerful mission—to improve world health while empowering individuals to overcome both physical and financial challenges. Through his relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, Dr. Raja is not only building a successful enterprise but also spearheading a movement that redefines how the world perceives health and well-being.
His story is one of vision, perseverance, and purpose—an inspiring testament to how knowledge, when guided by intention and compassion, can transform lives and create a lasting global impact.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Manoj Muntashir Shukla - Indian Lyricist & Poet
Manoj Muntashir Shukla is not just a name-he is a phenomenon. A commanding presence on stage, he possesses a rare ability to connect with every soul in the audience. From soldiers to mothers, from lovers to patriots, his emotionally charged performances leave no heart untouched. Widely credited with reintroducing lyrical depth into mainstream Indian cinema, he has become one of the most celebrated writers of our time.
His pen has given life to some of the most iconic songs in recent memory. From the patriotic anthem “Teri Mitti” in Kesari to the stirring “Desh Mere” from Bhuj, and the recent heart-touching “Maaye” from Sky Force, his words have stirred a collective national emotion. His chartbusters like “Kaise Hua” (KabirSingh), “Galliyan” (Ek Villain), “Tere Sang Yaara” and “Dekha Hazaro Dafaa” (Rustom), “Kaun Tujhe” (MS Dhoni – The Untold Story), and “Hua Main”(Animal) have not only topped music charts but also touched millions of hearts with their emotional depth and lyrical brilliance.
Expanding his creative journey beyond the realm of music, Manoj MuntashirShukla brought India’s rich history to life through the acclaimed documentary “Vadnagar” on Discovery Plus, and hosted the landmark 100th episode of Mann Ki Baat on National Geographic, interpreting the visionary connection of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the people of India. He is the first writer in the history of Hindi cinema to be associated with a `500-crore box office success-an extraordinary feat that testifies to his unparalleled contribution to Indian storytelling.
His achievements have been recognised with some of the highest honours in the industry. He received the prestigious National Film Award for “Parinda” in Saina and has been awarded the IIFA and Zee Cine Awards for “Teri Mitti.” His repertoire of awards also includes multiple IIFA Awards, numerous MirchiMusic Awards, Dadasaheb Phalke Awards, and recognition in Forbes India’s prestigious 45 Under 45 list.
Manoj Muntashir Shukla’s journey is not only one of creative brilliance but also of influence and leadership. With close associations with national leaders and global business icons, he represents a bridge between art, culture, and impact. His presence is a testament to what happens when talent meets vision-creating a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Bharat Gaurav Mrs. Kiran Agarwal - Founder WOKA
Kiran Agarwal’s life is a tapestry woven with culture, compassion, and creativity. Born in the quiet town of Sangaria in Rajasthan, and educated in the historically rich city of Patna—in Pataliputra , her early life was shaped by the echoes of India’s ancient glory. Bihar, the land of Bodh Gaya where Buddha attained enlightenment, and home to the legendary Nalanda University, infused her worldview with deep cultural and spiritual roots.
An all-rounder from the start, Kiran was not just academically inclined but deeply engaged in sports, representing her city in badminton, table tennis, and carrom. Her passion for music and poetry found equal expression in her early years, eventually blooming into a lifelong pursuit of writing. A formal course in creative writing at the prestigious London School of Journalism marked a turning point—what was once a passion became a calling.
Marriage brought her to Mumbai, and later to London, alongside her husband Anil Agarwal—a close family friend and a like-minded partner in life’s purpose. Together, they built a life rooted in values of service and giving back. As their family grew with children, Agnivesh and Priya, son in law Akarsh, granddaughter Mahii in who Kiran found a new muse —her role as a ‘Nani.’
It was through storytelling to her granddaughter that the seeds of WOKA – World of Kiran Agarwal were sown. Like grandmothers of yesteryear who passed down wisdom through tales, she saw storytelling as a way to bridge generations. But she envisioned something larger: a world where every child, regardless of background, could feel nurtured, entertained, and morally anchored.
Inspired by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family—Kiran created WOKA to help children reconnect with their roots in an age of screens, distractions, and shrinking family units. She began with short stories infused with Indian values, and over time, these evolved into beautiful animated films filled with music, color, and characters that captivated young hearts.
WOKA grew into a multi-dimensional platform, o ering books on culture, sanskar, and rituals from India’s 26 states—a cultural encyclopedia for modern parents. From prayer guides and shlokas for daily recitation, to books that explore festivals and rites of passage, Kiran’s vision has always been about preserving the essence of Indian identity in a modern world.
Her husband’s philosophy—“Life is not just about me, mine, and myself”—became a guiding light. The charitable ethos behind Vedanta’s Nandgharinitiative resonated deeply with WOKA’s mission: to raise a generation of children who are respectful, fearless, rooted, and morally strong.
In just 6 months, WOKA has touched over 10 million lives. Today, WOKA is a one-roof platform combining clean and enriching entertainment: live music, karaoke, TV, games, audiobooks, and even beloved outdoor classics like gillidanda and pithu. Parents and children a chance to bond—not through consumption, but through shared experiences.
What began 10 years ago as “Nani ki Kahaniyan” is now a global movement.And at its heart is one woman’s dream: to bring saaf aur safe manoranjan—clean, safe entertainment—to the children of the world.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Javed Akhtar - Urdu poet and film lyricist
Son of well-known Urdu poet and film lyricist Jan Nisar Akhtar and SafiaAkhtar, teacher and writer, Javed Akhtar belongs to a family lineage that can be traced back to seven generations of writers. The highly respected Urdu poet, Majaz was his mother’s brother and the work of Muzter Khairabadi, his grandfather, is looked upon as a milestone in Urdu Poetry.
Javed Akhtar did his schooling at the Cambridge School in Bhopal, Colvin Taluqdars’ College in Lucknow, Minto Circle at Aligarh, and graduated from Vikram University, Bhopal in 1964.
His first collection of poetry ‘Tarkash' is in its twenty-seven editions. It has received rave reviews both as a book and as India’s first audio book. According to a recent survey done by a publisher’s organization, ‘Tarkash’ is the most sold book of verses in the last 75 years in India.
It has been translated in English, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi and recently in French ‘D’Autres Mondes’ to rave reviews and he was invited to recite at the historic Maison De La Poesie in Paris. It has now been translated in Italian ‘In altre parole, altri mondi’. He was invited to recite at Universities of Rome and Bologna, Italy. His 2nd publication of verses titled Lava was released in 2012 and is still on the list of 10 best sellers in Hindi.
His books ‘Talking Films’ & ‘Talking Songs’ published by Oxford University Press have been hailed by film critics as the most definitive works on Indian Cinema and are in the libraries of major Ivy League Universities in USA. Now his third book of the same series ‘Talking Life’ has been published recently by Westland Publications. ‘Jadunama’ a book on Javed Akhtar’s journey has also been published by Manjul Publications.
Javed Akhtar has been nominated to Rajya Sabha (Upper House) as Member of Parliament by President of India 2010. He is the architect of the Copyright Amendment Bill passed by both Houses of Indian Parliament which after a long struggle has finally given Copyright royalties to Writers and Music composers. He was the Vice – President of International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) the first Asian to be on the Governing Board of CISAC. Javed Akhtar is the Chairman of IPRS which is the Government recognized Copyright Society of India.
A multi-faceted personality Javed Akhtar is also a celebrated T.V anchor who has had talk shows on Zee TV, Epic Channel and Tata Sky has dedicated solely to him on which he explains the intricacies of poetry in a language that is simple to understand and relates dohas (two-line poems in Hindi) and Urdu poetry to everyday living.
Highly regarded as a social commentator and respected for his liberal progressive values Javed Akhtar is considered one of India’s 50 most powerful people in a survey conducted by India today.
He is married to film actress Shabana Azmi and has two children Zoya who is a writer – director and Farhan Akhtar who is and actor, singer, writer, director and producer.
His body of work can be categorized under four distinct categories :
AWARDS: Films
5 National Awards by Government of India as Best Lyricist three of them in a row an unprecedented achievement.
15 Film Fare Awards which are considered to be India’s Oscars as Best Script Writer and Best Lyricist.
Awards :
Hon. Doctorate (Doctor of Literature) by SOAS University of London 2023 l Shailendra Trust Memorial Award 2023 l Poet Laureate Award by Tata Literature Live 2020 l Richard Dawkins Award by Center for Inquiry and Richard Dawkins Foundation 2020 l Hon. Doctorate (Doctor of Letters) by Symbiosis International University 2019 l Lifetime Achievement Award – Times Litfest 2019 l Hon. Doctorate (Doctor of Letters) by Jamia Hamdard University 2019
l Ghalib Award for Poetry 2018 l Sankat Mochan Shanti Doot Award 2018 l Hindi Akademi Shalaka Award 2018 l Sahitya Akademi Award 2014 (The Central Academy of Literature) l Hon. Doctorate (Doctor of Letters) by Pondicherry University 2010 l Padma Bhushan Award 2007 (2nd highest civilian honour for excellence in writing) by Government of India l Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration 2006 l Padmashri in 1999 by the Government of India.
Universities Addressed :
Harvard University l Columbia University l University of Mary Land l Berkeley California
l University of Cambridge l University of Oxford l London School of Economics
Bharat Gaurav Dr. Tejas Patel - Interventional Cardiologist
Prof. Dr. Tejas Patel is a renowned interventional cardiologist with a global reputation for his groundbreaking work. Currently serving as the Chairman &Chief Interventional Cardiologist at the Apex Heart Institute, Ahmedabad since August 2012, he has an illustrious career that includes being the former Professor & Head of Cardiology at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (SVPIMSR), affiliated with Gujarat University, Ahmedabad from February 2008 to October 2022.
In 2013, he added to his impressive credentials by becoming a Professor of Medicine (Cardiology) in the Department of Internal Medicine at the prestigious Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, USA. Dr. Patel's contributions also extend to the Mayo Clinic, where he has been a visiting professor in the Department of Cardiology since September 2017.
Dr. Patel's expertise lies in the field of interventional cardiology, where he has gained international acclaim for his innovative work in transradial interventions, robotic PCI, and distant telerobotic PCI. His commitment to spreading these techniques has made a significant impact, reaching countries across Asia, Europe, and the USA.
A true educator, Dr. Patel has trained over 8000 cardiologists from India and abroad through TRICO, a prestigious international training course on transradialtechniques, which he has conducted for the last 19 years (TRICO 2005 to TRICO 2025). He is also the author of three influential books, including "Patel’s Atlas of Transradial Intervention: The Basics," "Patel’s Atlas of TransradialIntervention: The Basics & Beyond," and "Patel’s Atlas of Complications of Coronary Interventions: Plan-B," all recognized as essential texts in the field.
Dr. Patel's contributions to research are equally impressive, with 336 publications to his name, including three textbooks, 24 chapters in various textbooks, 201 original articles in esteemed national and international journals, and 108 abstracts in reputable publications. He is also one of the authors of the "White Paper" on transradial intervention techniques for the Society for Cardiac Angiography and Intervention (SCAI), a leading intervention society in the USA.
As the Editor-in-Chief of www.trico.guru, a popular educational website on transradial approaches, and a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Invasive Cardiology published in the USA, Dr. Patel is at the forefront of advancing knowledge in his field. Furthermore, He has designed catheters (PAPA catheter and the VASO-catheter) that are used worldwide and holds patents in the United States and Europe.
Dr. Patel's extensive recognition includes being a Fellow of the CardiologicalSociety of India (F.C.S.I.) since 2005, a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (F.A.C.C.) since 2003, a Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (F.E.S.C.) since 2005, and a Fellow of the Society for Cardiac Angiography and Intervention (F.S.C.A.I.) since 2003. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Dr. K. M. Sharan Cardiology Excellence Award in 2002, the Dr. B. C. Roy Award from the Honorable President of India in 2008, and the Padma Shri Award in 2015, one of India's highest civilian honors, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field of cardiology. In addition, Dr. Tejas Patel has also been conferred the Padma Bhushan award in the year 2024, further solidifying his remarkable legacy in the field of cardiology. Furthermore, Dr. Tejas Patel has also confirmed his receipt of the status of Master Fellow of SCAI (MSCAI) in 2024, which is a prestigious recognition reserved for exceptional and pioneering interventional cardiologists worldwide.
Bharat Gaurav Mrs. Ranju Alex - Regional Vice President, South Asia Marriott International Inc., India
Ranju Alex serves as the Regional Vice President at Marriott International, overseeing an expansive portfolio of 171 hotels with over 32,000 rooms across the South Asia region. With nearly three decades of hospitality experience and 15 years of dedicated service to Marriott International, Ranju is recognized for her sharp business acumen and an authentic, hands-on leadership style that has redefined industry standards.
An alumna of the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Kolkata, Ranju began her illustrious career with the Oberoi Group of Hotels, where she honed her craft over 18 transformative years. In 2010, she joined Marriott International as General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott, Hinjewadi Pune, embarking on a journey marked by operational excellence and strategic foresight. Her ability to inspire and guide diverse teams propelled her into senior leadership roles, including overseeing operations in East India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. Today, she leads Marriott International’s South Asia region with vision and purpose, breaking barriers in a field where women leaders remain underrepresented. Ranju’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of leadership.
Her personal story of triumph is equally inspiring. At the age of 17, Ranju was diagnosed with neurocysticercosis, a life-threatening condition with a prognosis of only six months to live. Defying all odds, she overcame this severe illness, emerging stronger and more determined to create an impact. This profound experience instilled in her an unwavering belief in optimism, financial independence, and the empowerment of women. Inspired by a conversation with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 about women’s empowerment, led to the launch of Project Pranita, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young women from economically challenged backgrounds. The program seeks to dismantle societal taboos and provide meaningful career opportunities in the hospitality industry, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Ranju’s passion for gender diversity and workplace inclusion has earned her global recognition as a thought leader and keynote speaker, with invitations to address audiences in Sweden, the Netherlands, the UK, and the US.
Her contributions to the industry and society have been honored with numerous accolades, including the “Women of the Decade in Business & Leadership” award at the Women Economic Forum, UK (2017), the Women Super Achiever Award by Femina, and the Achiever in Hospitality award from SHE Awards by The Telegraph. Most recently, in 2023, she received the National Award for Leadership in Positivity (Corporate) by The Society for Positive Initiative. Emphasizing that leadership is never a solo act but a harmonious collaboration of skills and talents. Her mantra of “Pursuit of Excellence and Humility in Leadership” underscores her commitment to staying rooted and fostering an inclusive environment.
Beyond her professional success, Ranju embodies Marriott’s core values, particularly in nurturing associate growth and fostering service excellence. She thrives on collaboration, problem-solving, and inspiring teams to exceed expectations while maintaining a people-first approach. Her dedication to work has never come at the expense of her personal life. She treasures her family—her husband and children—as her greatest source of joy and inspiration. A firm believer in “health is wealth,” Ranju is passionate about fitness, enjoying tennis, swimming, and cooking for friends and family. Traveling is another cherished hobby, allowing her to create meaningful memories with her loved ones.
Ranju Alex’s remarkable leadership and unwavering dedication continue to uplift communities, inspire positive change, and redefine excellence in the hospitality industry. Her journey is not just a narrative of professional success but a beacon of hope and empowerment for aspiring leaders worldwide.
