This Women’s Day, we celebrate their journeys—stories of courage, determination and excellence that continue to inspire millions.
Updated On – 8 March 2025, 10:53 AM
Hyderabad: From breaking societal barriers to redefining industries, these extraordinary women have made history through their passion, perseverance and groundbreaking achievements. This Women’s Day, we celebrate their journeys—stories of courage, determination and excellence that continue to inspire millions.
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Meenakshi Chaudhary – From Pageantry to the Silver Screen
Meenakshi Chaudhary’s journey from being a state-level athlete to an acclaimed actress is nothing short of remarkable. A trained dentist, she took an unexpected turn towards glamour when she won Femina Miss Haryana 2018, eventually becoming the first runner-up at Femina Miss India 2018 and Miss Grand International 2018. This achievement made history as India’s highest placement at the global pageant.
Not content with just beauty pageants, Meenakshi ventured into acting, making her debut in the Telugu film Ichata Vahanamulu Niluparadu . She gained recognition with HIT: The Second Case and solidified her place in South Indian cinema with major projects like The Greatest of All Time (GOAT) and Lucky Baskhar.
As a multi-talented woman, Meenakshi proves that with hard work and passion, one can excel in multiple fields.
Sudha Kongara – A Visionary Filmmaker
Few filmmakers have the ability to create cinema that touches hearts and inspires change and Sudha Kongara is one among them. Starting her career as an associate to Mani Ratnam, she spent years learning the craft before making her directorial debut with Drohi . However, it was her sports drama Irudhi Suttru (Guru in Telugu and Saala Khadoos in Hindi) that brought her widespread recognition.
Her biggest triumph came with Soorarai Pottru (Aakasam Nee Haddura), a film based on Air Deccan’s founder, Captain G R Gopinath. The film won five National Film Awards, including Best Feature Film and Best Screenplay, making her one of the most influential filmmakers of the decade. With upcoming projects like Parasakthi, she continues to challenge conventions and tell powerful stories.
Shobana – The Queen of Cinema and Dance
A legend in both cinema and classical dance, Shobana is a name synonymous with grace and talent. With over 230 films to her credit, she has won two National Film Awards for Manichitrathazhu (Original version of Chandramukhi) and Mitr, My Friend, along with the Padma Shri in 2006 and Padma Bhushan in 2025.
Beyond acting, she is a celebrated Bharatanatyam dancer who has performed worldwide, establishing her dance school Kalarpana to train young artists.
Shobana’s journey is proof that dedication and passion can lead to mastery in multiple fields.
The Power Sisters of Telugu Cinema: Swapna & Priyanka Dutt
When it comes to shaping modern Telugu cinema, sisters Swapna Dutt and Priyanka Dutt have created a legacy of their own. Born into the illustrious film family of C Aswani Dutt, founder of Vyjayanthi Movies, they carved their own path by producing meaningful and innovative films.
Swapna, the elder sister, started her career at just 18, while Priyanka gained experience under acclaimed filmmaker Shoojit Sircar before launching Three Angels Studio, which produced the critically acclaimed film Baanam. Together, they founded Swapna Cinema, producing films that broke stereotypes and brought fresh storytelling to Telugu audiences.
Their biggest triumph came with Mahanati, a biopic on legendary actress Savitri, which won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu. They followed it up with Sita Ramam, a heartwarming romance that won both commercial success and critical acclaim.
With their keen eye for unique narratives and strong female representation, Swapna and Priyanka Dutt are a proof that women can lead the way in the male-dominated film industry.
Science & Space: Kalpana Chawla- Woman Who Reached for the Stars
Kalpana Chawla’s story is one of relentless ambition and courage. Born in Karnal, Haryana, she defied societal norms to pursue a career in aeronautical engineering before moving to the United States. She became the first Indian-origin woman in space when she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997.
Her second mission in 2003, STS-107, ended in tragedy when Columbia disintegrated during re-entry. However, Kalpana’s legacy lives on through the countless institutions, awards and even an asteroid named in her honor. She remains an eternal inspiration for young girls dreaming of reaching for the stars.
Philanthropy & Business:
Sudha Murty – The Woman Who Gave Back
An educator, author and philanthropist, Sudha Murty has dedicated her life to social causes. As the Founder-Chairperson of the Infosys Foundation, she has played a key role in rural development, public healthcare and education.
Sudha was also the first female engineer hired at TELCO (Tata Motors) after challenging their “men-only” hiring policy. With numerous books to her credit, she has made literature accessible to millions in both Kannada and English.
Honored with the Padma Shri in 2006 and Padma Bhushan in 2023, her life proves that success is truly measured by what one gives back to society.
Falguni Nayar – The Self-Made Billionaire
Few women in India have redefined entrepreneurship like Falguni Nayar. At 50, when most professionals think of retirement, she took a leap of faith and founded Nykaa, one of India’s most loved beauty and lifestyle brand.
Starting with just $2 million of her own savings in 2012, she built an empire that reached a $2.3 billion valuation after its IPO in 2021.
Today, as one of India’s richest self-made women, she stands as a torchbearer for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Healthcare & Social Service:
Dr L Jayanthi Reddy – A Pioneer in Women’s Health
With over three decades of experience in gynecology and obstetrics, Dr L Jayanthi Reddy has transformed maternal healthcare in India. From serving in rural areas to founding J J Hospital, she has dedicated her life to improving women’s health.
A recipient of multiple national awards, she has also been an advocate for natural birthing techniques and safer medical practices. Her passion for healthcare extends beyond hospitals, as she actively supports orphaned girls through her NGO.
Music & Performing Arts
M S Subbulakshmi – The Nightingale of India
A true icon of Indian classical music, M S Subbulakshmi was the first musician to receive the Bharat Ratna. She performed globally, including at the United Nations General Assembly, mesmerising audience with her devotional renditions.
Beyond music, she was a humanitarian who donated her earnings to charity. With numerous awards, including the Padma Vibhushan and Ramon Magsaysay Award, she remains an everlasting inspiration for musicians and artists.
Each of these women, through their Perseverance and determination, has shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations.
Whether in cinema, business, science, healthcare or the arts, they stand as living proof that with passion and resilience, anything is possible.
This Women’s Day, let’s not just celebrate them—let’s be inspired by them.