The illustrious Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards took place in Mumbai on Saturday, October 19, 2024. This prestigious global event honors inspirational women from films, television, art, culture, and literature. Since 2007, these awards have gathered extraordinary women worldwide on one platform, celebrating their remarkable contributions. This event highlights women who have played eminent roles in diverse fields such as art, fashion, literature, films, sports, and social service.
Among the event's luminaries, Isha Ambani received the 'Icon of the Year' award. As a director of Reliance Industries Limited and founder of AJIO Life, AJIO Luxe, and TIRA Beauty, Isha has revolutionized the retail and telecom sectors, propelling Reliance Retail into Asia's top 10 retailers. Furthermore, through the Reliance Foundation, she continues to champion vital work for women and children.
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Renowned interior designer and entrepreneur Gauri Khan was named 'Interior Designer of the Year.' Since starting Gauri Khan Designs in 2010, she has crafted many high-profile homes and commercial spaces, including those of Bollywood stars. Her design aesthetic beautifully blends modernity with luxury.
Aditya Birla Education Trust founder and chairperson Nirja Bira was honored as 'Philanthropist of the Year.' She has initiated significant strides in education, mental health awareness, and women's empowerment. Under her leadership, institutions like Mpower and Aditya Birla World Academy strive for positive societal change.
Actress Ananya Panday nabbed the 'Spotlight Actor' award this year, captivating audiences with her stellar performances. Through films like 'Gehraiyaan' and 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,' she has portrayed the complexities of today's youth and life in the digital age. Her 'So Positive' campaign is also acclaimed for raising awareness against cyberbullying.
A revered name in Indian fashion design, Anita Dongre, received the 'Fashion Designer of the Year' award. She's known for promoting sustainable luxury while empowering rural artisans. Kanika Goyal was celebrated under 'Spotlight Fashion' for bringing a buzz in the fashion world with her bold and modern designs.
2022 International Booker Prize winner Geetanjali Shree was celebrated as 'Author of the Year.' Her book 'Tomb of Sand' (in Hindi, 'Ret Samadhi') has made waves not only in India but globally as well.
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India's first female Paralympic double gold medalist Avani Lekhara was awarded 'Sportsperson of the Year.' She has made her country proud not just in Paralympics but in other international competitions too.
Actress Kriti Sanon consistently dazzles with her choice of challenging roles, earning her the title 'Actor of the Year.' Her accolades extend to her production house Blue Butterfly Films and her skincare brand Hyphen.
In 2024, Payal Kapadia, awarded 'Film Director of the Year,' wowed audiences by winning the Cannes Grand Prix for her film 'All We Imagine As Light.'
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Sculptor Shakuntala Kulkarni was recognized as 'Artist of the Year' for her creative works. Mitali Sagar and Sumaiya Paatni of the House of Misu, trailblazers in fashion and lifestyle, were honored as 'Luxury Content Creators.'
Jonita Gandhi, helming several Bollywood hits with her voice, won 'Musician of the Year.' Namrata Soni, setting trends in the beauty industry through her makeup brand Simply Nam, was named 'Make-up Artist of the Year.'
Avani Rai, spotlighting societal issues through her photography and documentary filmmaking, was bestowed with 'Photographer of the Year.' Fast ascending in the international fashion industry, Avanti Nagarth won the title 'Supermodel of the Year.'
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Anaita Shroff Adajania, one of Bollywood's most acclaimed fashion stylists, bagged the 'Fashion Stylist of the Year' award. Known for her global fashion sense, Natasha Poonawalla was honored as 'Style Icon of the Year.'
This year's Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards yet again underscored that women have not only cemented their place across various fields but have also reached new heights. Be it business moguls like Isha Ambani or creative personalities like Gauri Khan, each woman has made her mark both nationally and globally.
This awards ceremony was not just a celebration of achievements, but a tribute to the struggles, dedication, and passion that set these women apart. Nirja Birla, Ananya Panday, and all the award winners are not only agents of change in their fields but also sources of inspiration for the new generation.
This event rightly celebrated the strength and continued progress of women, proving that they are a step behind in no field and deserve a platform to celebrate their accomplishments.
