As we step into 2026, we take a moment to reflect back on the milestones that defined the year gone by—moments that recognised partnerships rooted in purpose. The most significant moments was the 36th edition of the Devi Awards, held at ITC Maratha in New Delhi. It honoured 12 distinguished women for their exceptional contributions across diverse fields. For us, the Clear Cut Media, Associate Partner for the event, the evening stood as a meaningful year-end marker.
The 36th Devi Awards—also the seventh edition in Delhi—unfolded with a sense of quiet authority. Rather than spectacle, the focus remained on journeys shaped by perseverance, intellect, and conviction. These were narratives that resonated deeply with the broader themes of 2025. The event commenced with a welcome address by Lakshmi Menon, CEO of Express Publications (Madurai) Pvt Ltd, who set the tone for an evening dedicated to acknowledgement and reflection. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, with EPMPL CMD Manoj Sonthalia, Editorial Director Prabhu Chawla, Editor Santwana Bhattacharya, and Menon joined on stage by the chief guests.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, attended the event as Chief Guest, while Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta served as Guest of Honour. In his address, Gadkari emphasised the enduring role of women in shaping India’s history and institutions. He noted that recognition stems from the quality of one’s work, observing that “a person’s work becomes their trademark.” He further underlined that respect is not demanded but earned through skill, commitment, and merit. Gupta echoed these sentiments, reflecting on India’s longstanding legacy of women’s empowerment. From Rani Lakshmibai to Kalpana Chawla, she remarked, women have consistently challenged constraints and expanded possibilities—a legacy that continued through 2025.
Women Recognised for Excellence in 2025#
- Smita Prakash – Editor and CEO, ANI
For her contribution to journalism - Simran Sharma – Paralympian Swimmer
Gold medallist at the 2024 Para Championship, Japan - Dr Radhika Batra – Paediatrician and Public Health Expert
For her work in combating child malnutrition - Sudha Bhattacharya – Professor and Geneticist
For her contribution to molecular biology
- Aditi Mangaldas – Dancer and Educator
For her work in Kathak and contemporary dance - Sonia Mathur – Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India
For her contribution to legal affairs - Archana Jahagirdar – Founder and Managing Partner, Rukam Capital
For promoting entrepreneurship - Anita Kundu – Mountaineer
For conquering Mount Everest - Shradha Sharma – Founder and CEO, YourStory
For championing India’s start-up ecosystem - Meenakshi Jain – Member of Parliament and Historian
For her scholarly work on Indian history and religion - Rina Dhaka – Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur
For her innovative, contemporary approach to fashion - Lakshmi V Venkatesan – Founder, Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust
For her inspiring work with young people
For Clear Cut Media, the event aligned closely with our editorial commitment to highlighting voices that contribute meaningfully to equity, knowledge, and social progress. As 2025 ends, the women honoured at the Devi Awards stand not only as recipients of recognition, but as defining figures of the year that was—and as inspirations for the year ahead.
Clear Cut Awards & Events Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Jan 08, 2026 05:35 IST
Written By: Clear Cut Team
