Our Speakers

INK Fellow Neha Bagaria is the Founder & CEO of HerKey, a platform dedicated to helping women re-skill and re-enter the workforce after taking career breaks for reasons such as marriage, motherhood, or elderly care. Inspired by her own journey of stepping away from her career to focus on her family, Neha recognized the challenges faced by educated women seeking to return to work. This personal experience led her to launch HerKey on International Women’s Day in 2015, with the goal of reversing the female brain drain in India.

HerKey provides women with access to resources, training, and opportunities to restart their careers, while also helping companies recruit experienced female talent. Neha’s vision is not only about supporting women in their return to the workforce but also about empowering them to rediscover their identity and make meaningful contributions to society.

Through her leadership, Neha has created a vibrant community of women who are confidently navigating the transition back to work, proving that it is possible to balance personal fulfillment with professional growth.

Vita Dani is a prominent entrepreneurial philanthropist and sports enthusiast, known for her significant contributions to the Indian sports landscape. She is the co-owner of the Indian Super League football team Chennaiyin FC and a league co-owner in Indian table tennis. Her passion for sports extends into her philanthropic efforts through the Dani Foundation, which she founded to empower communities via grassroots programs. These programs reflect her firm belief in the transformative power of sport and community engagement.

In addition to her roles in sports, Vita serves as the Director of ELMS Sports Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating sports development in India. Through her leadership, the foundation supports impactful projects like Annamrita, Project Mumbai, and Kapadwanj Kelavni Mandal, all aimed at empowering individuals and fostering transformative change within communities.

Vita Dani’s work not only promotes sports but also encompasses broader social impact initiatives, making her a pivotal figure in both the entrepreneurial and philanthropic spheres in India.

Vasundhara Das is a versatile artist–a singer, songwriter, composer, and actress. With a rich career in the Indian film industry, she has starred in several films across various languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Kannada. As a playback singer, Vasundhara has lent her voice to numerous Bollywood and South Indian film songs, enchanting audiences with her melodious vocals, created original soundtracks for films, and collaborated on diverse music projects, continually pushing the boundaries of her craft.

Vasundhara is also a trained drum circle facilitator, having honed her skills under the guidance of Arthur Hull. She co-founded Drumjam, a pioneering company that brings the joy of group drumming to individuals and communities. Through Drumjam’s community and children’s programs, she fosters a sense of rhythm and unity among participants, creating memorable musical experiences.

In addition to her work with Drumjam, Vasundhara is a dynamic stage performer. With her world music band, Arya, she has captivated audiences at various global events, earning acclaim as one of India’s most popular performing artists. Her performances blend traditional and contemporary elements, showcasing her versatility and passion for music.

Alayna Van Dervort, the visionary founder of The Big Wild, is at the forefront of merging technology and environmental stewardship to drive sustainability within global climate initiatives. Armed with a Harvard education and a background as a Marine Mammal Medic, Alayna brings a unique blend of expertise to her role as an Amazon AWS professional, where she pioneers collaborative technological solutions aimed at addressing critical issues in climate, environment, and society.

With a deep commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Alayna empowers individuals and organizations on the front lines of environmental advocacy and Indigenous community support. Through her innovative approach, she facilitates access to cutting-edge technologies such as AI, Machine Learning, and GIS tools, enabling stakeholders to tackle global challenges effectively.

Alayna’s transformative work extends beyond mere advocacy; she actively propels the missions of organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet. Her holistic approach underscores her dedication to fostering meaningful change and driving progress towards a more sustainable future.

Gazal Dhaliwal is a prominent Indian screenwriter and transgender activist with a notable presence in Bollywood. After completing her B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from the Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur, she initially worked as a software engineer at Infosys Technologies. In pursuit of her passion for cinema, she moved to Mumbai in 2005, where she studied filmmaking at the Xavier Institute of Communications and began her career in the film industry.

Dhaliwal has worked with esteemed filmmakers like Govind Nihalani and has written for several acclaimed films, including Wazir, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Qarib Qarib Singlle, and Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga. Her work often explores complex themes around gender and social identities, bringing nuanced characters and stories to the forefront of Indian cinema.

Recently, Dhaliwal has been in the news for her advocacy for proper recognition and rights for screenwriters in the industry. Beyond her film career, Dhaliwal is an advocate for transgender rights and has participated in international programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program on Transgender Rights in the USA. She continues to inspire many through her creative work and her advocacy for social change.

Anshulika is a media & technology entrepreneur. After her stint at the management consulting firm McKinsey, she started Wishberry – India’s first crowdfunding platform for creative artists, backed by India’s top angel investors and Reliance Entertainment.

Wishberry helped over 600 creative artists fundraise ~$3 million (~Rs. 26 crore) from 1 lakh+ people across the world through philanthropy and equity capital. Wishberry also produced 6 regional feature films currently streaming on the top OTT platforms such as Netflix and Sony Liv. The films went on to garner several international awards and one of them called ‘Mandela’ also went on to be shortlisted in the Oscar list from India.

Anshulika has now launched The Writers INK Institute, India’s premier skillbuilding initiative for upcoming writers in India, incubated and supported by the INK Global Foundation and the Ford Foundation. Writers INK aims to become a premium institution that provides global writing education and a visible career pathway to budding writers in India.

As CEO of INK Women, Archana Dutta leads a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering women leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. INK Women fosters mentorship, networking, and knowledge-sharing, creating a thriving ecosystem where women can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Under Archana’s leadership, the platform champions visibility, inclusion, and growth, ensuring more women have access to opportunities that help them excel.

Before INK Women, Archana spent 28 years in leadership roles at Hyatt Hotels and Lufthansa German Airlines. She then founded SecondAct, a platform for personal and professional transformation, and hosts the Discover Your SecondAct podcast, featuring over 150 inspiring stories. Her social impact initiative, Pedal On, focuses on skill-building and sustainable livelihoods for underprivileged women, creating over 10,000 eco-friendly products. Across all her ventures, Archana remains committed to driving meaningful change, empowering individuals to embrace reinvention and step into their next act with purpose.

Shohini Ghose is a pioneering quantum physicist and Professor of Physics and Computer Science at Wilfrid Laurier University, and the CTO of Quantum Algorithms Institute. She has made significant contributions to the field of quantum information science, with her research focusing on quantum communication, teleportation, multiparty quantum correlations, and quantum chaos. Ghose’s groundbreaking work includes the first-ever observations of individual cesium atoms showing the effect of chaos on quantum entanglement, a feat that has been recognized in the McGraw-Hill Yearbook of Science and Technology.

Beyond her research, Ghose is a prominent advocate for gender equality in STEM fields. She founded the Laurier Centre for Women in Science (WinS) in 2012 to build a strong community for women in science through research, communication, and action. WinS supports research, provides resources and mentorship, organizes conferences and workshops, and develops policies to address structural and social barriers in science.

Ghose has held prestigious positions, including President of the Canadian Association of Physicists (2019-2020), and has been recognized with numerous awards such as the NSERC Ontario Chair for Women in Science and Engineering (2020), the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists (2017), the Faculty of Science Award for Teaching Excellence at Wilfrid Laurier University (2018), and was featured among 25 women in UNESCO’s ‘Remarkable Women in Technology (2019). She is also a 2014 TED Fellow and a 2018 Senior TED Fellow, with her TED talks and other public engagements reaching a global audience.

Her book, “Clues to the Cosmos,” was released in India in 2019, adding to her contributions to science communication. Shohini Ghose continues to inspire and lead in the realms of quantum physics and gender equity in science, making her a pivotal figure in both fields.

Aparajita Jain is a leading figure in the Indian contemporary art world, known for her efforts in promoting Indian art on the global stage. In 2005, she founded Seven Art Limited, a gallery dedicated to showcasing innovative Indian artists, such as Asim Waqif and Aakash Nihalani. The gallery played a pivotal role in placing Indian contemporary art in the international arena, notably hosting the first Indian contemporary art exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Shanghai and facilitating Indian participation in the Lisbon Biennale.

Jain is currently the co-founder of Nature Morte, one of Delhi’s most avant-garde art spaces, which has become renowned for showcasing leading contemporary Indian artists like Subodh Gupta, Jitish Kallat, and Anita Dube. Her influence extends beyond the commercial art scene into philanthropy. She established the Saat Saath Arts Foundation (SSAF), a nonprofit aimed at fostering international art exchanges. One of SSAF’s landmark projects is the creation of India’s first permanent international art space at Nahargarh Fort in collaboration with the Rajasthan government.

Aparajita Jain’s contributions have earned her recognition as one of the 50 icons of Indian art by *Platform* magazine. She is also actively involved in global business leadership circles as a board member of the Delhi Chapter of YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) and is a founding member of the Harvard South Asia Institute Arts Program. Her vision continues to shape the future of contemporary art in India and abroad.

Dao Jensen has carved out a prominent space in the technology industry as a trailblazer and visionary leader. Graduating from the Harvard Business School’s OPM Executive program, she founded Oak Rocket, Inc. in 2013. Oak Rocket stands as the first 100% female minority-owned company on the West Coast born in the cloud, which has positioned itself among the fastest-growing women-owned companies in the United States. The company’s mission is to lead in cloud enablement, offering strategic and optimized solutions for public cloud platforms.

Throughout her career, Dao has faced profound personal and professional challenges, including being a refugee and enduring the loss of close family members. These experiences have shaped her resilience and commitment to transformation, both personally and within her enterprise. She is also a dedicated board member of the YPO Pacific West Integrated Chapter and actively engages in global discussions on leadership and technology at platforms like AWS, GEN AI Days, and WBENC.

Jensen’s work extends beyond business; she is passionate about empowering others, evident in her talks at prestigious venues including the INK Talks and the Harvard Club. Her journey and insights have inspired many, proving that adversity can be a powerful catalyst for innovation and leadership.

Neha Kanitkar is the co-founder of The Wayfarers, an exclusive, off-radar slow travel community that is redefining travel in India by harnessing the power of behavioral sciences and generative AI. The mission is to enable a seamless journey from discovery to adventure, while promoting sustainable and mindful travel planning and fostering meaningful connections, both with destinations and fellow explorers.

In addition to her role at The Wayfarers, Neha is a partner at UXDesignlabs, a product design and venture studio. Previously, she led the implementation of an Indo-German bilateral project for GIZ, focused on improving framework conditions for women-led enterprises in India. Her professional experience also includes roles at the Consulate General of the United States of America in Hyderabad and at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise in Wellington.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Neha is passionate about food, travel, and community building.

Priyanka Kohli is a dedicated advocate for public health and technology innovation, currently pursuing a full-time Masters in Public Health with a focus on Program Management, Child & Adolescent Wellness, and Health Education to address health inequities among communities. With a wealth of experience gathered from internships at prestigious organizations like the Robin Hood Foundation and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Priyanka played a pivotal role as a Founding team member at GreyOrange, contributing to the organization’s growth to a 450+ global team. Priyanka was responsible for People Operations and Partner Success at GreyOrange.

Before her tenure at GreyOrange, Priyanka excelled in Business Development and Key Account Management roles at Gallup in India and Sri Lanka, showcasing her expertise in solution implementation and client engagement. Passionate about driving positive change, Priyanka’s diverse background and unwavering commitment make her a valuable asset in the fields of public health and technology innovation.

Vani Kola is the Founder and Managing Director of Kalaari Capital, a prominent early-stage venture capital firm in India. With a background as a 2x entrepreneur in Silicon Valley, Vani brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to her investment philosophy, which focuses on supporting young, first-time entrepreneurs with passion and perseverance. 

At Kalaari, Vani has led over 30 successful investments across various sectors, including e-commerce, gaming, digital content, and healthcare. Some notable successes include Dream11, Myntra, Cure.fit, and Snapdeal. Vani is actively involved in guiding these companies as a board member, contributing to their growth and success.

Vani has become an influential figure in India’s startup ecosystem over the past decade. She has been featured in numerous publications and recognized as one of Fortune India‘s ‘Most Powerful Women in Business.’ Vani is also dedicated to supporting organizations that promote entrepreneurship and women leadership.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Vani prioritizes personal well-being and sustainability. She practices heartfulness meditation and Ashtanga yoga, enjoys reading and writing, and is passionate about sustainable living. Vani cultivates organic produce in her garden to meet her family’s needs, embodying her commitment to a balanced and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

Sunitha Krishnan is a renowned anti-trafficking activist and the founder of Prajwala, one of the largest anti-human trafficking organizations in the world. Over the years, Prajwala has rescued, rehabilitated, or supported more than 17,000 survivors of sex trafficking. A survivor of sexual violence herself, Krishnan has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of the most vulnerable, particularly women and children forced into prostitution.

Prajwala operates across five pillars—prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration, and advocacy—and works closely with the Indian government to shape policies on anti-trafficking and victim rehabilitation. The organization also runs emergency and children’s shelters, providing comprehensive care to survivors. Through partnerships with police, judicial systems, and corporate entities, Prajwala facilitates job placements for survivors in industries like construction, hospitality, and healthcare.

Sunitha Krishnan’s work has garnered international recognition, including being honored with India’s prestigious Padma Shri award in 2016. Her relentless efforts have made her an influential figure in shaping India’s anti-trafficking policies, earning her global admiration for her humanitarian work.

Dr. Susan Lim is a pioneering surgeon, scientist, and creative visionary with a multifaceted career that spans medical breakthroughs and the arts. Notably, she performed Singapore’s first successful cadaveric liver transplant, marking a milestone in the country’s medical history. Her expertise in robotic surgery and transplantation, honed through studies under world-renowned surgeons like Sir Roy Calne and Professor Thomas Starzl, has earned her international recognition in the medical field. She has also delivered impactful talks on organ replacement, including a TED Talk exploring the future of cell transplantation.

Beyond her medical achievements, Dr. Lim has expanded into the arts, co-creating and writing the musical *ALAN* and two orchestral pieces: *Lim Fantasy of Companionship for Piano and Orchestra* and *Lim Cosmic Rhapsody*, both recorded with the prestigious London Symphony Orchestra. These works explore the intersections of artificial intelligence, robotics, and human emotion, reflecting her forward-thinking approach to science and art. Dr. Lim continues to push boundaries in both fields, earning recognition at global forums like the World Economic Forum and various international film and music festivals.

Her work epitomizes a unique blend of scientific rigor and artistic creativity, reflecting her commitment to innovation and the pursuit of knowledge across multiple disciplines.

Tinky Mathew is the co-founder of Pepper House, a 400-year-old spice warehouse in Fort Cochin that she transformed into a vibrant café, design shop, and open gallery spaces. Although a Biomedical Engineer by education, Tinky’s true passion lies in design and fashion.

In 2012, along with her partner, she restored the historic warehouse to host the first edition of the Kochi Muziris Biennale and seized the opportunity to curate a design-focused retail shop for the event. This serendipitous experience led her to open the Pepper House Design Shop in January 2015. With this venture, Tinky realized her vision of discovering, curating, and showcasing the incredible talent of independent creators and designers from across the country, presenting them to a discerning audience.

Suzannah Muthoot is a dedicated professional with over 7 years of experience in the financial services industry. Currently, she serves as the Head of Strategy for Muthoot Housing Finance Company Ltd. Suzannah holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Economics from the University of Notre Dame and a Master’s in Management from IE Business School.

Suzannah is passionate about the powerful impact of storytelling. She has witnessed firsthand the inspiring journeys of many customers, particularly women, whose stories often remain untold. Her goal is to bring these narratives to light, empowering women by sharing their experiences and journeys.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Suzannah is a mother to 8-month-old twin girls. She finds peace and calm through singing and drawing and enjoys a good workout. She also cherishes time spent with her lovable cocker spaniel, Cola. Suzannah’s blend of professional acumen, dedication to storytelling, and personal interests make her a dynamic and influential leader in her field.

Hannah Muthoot is a dedicated social entrepreneur and a fourth-generation torchbearer of the Muthoot Pappachan Group. Based in Kochi, Kerala, she focuses on business development, operations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Hannah combines her business acumen with a passion for social empowerment. An alumna of the University of Southern California, she holds a degree in social entrepreneurship. Since 2016, she has also been consulting for the Jeevan Jyothi Non-Profit Organization in Pune, India, addressing various social issues.

Currently, Hannah is spearheading the Group’s efforts in sports development for Indian youth, aiming to create a comprehensive sports ecosystem in India. This initiative seeks to inspire, uplift, and transform the next generation through the power of sports.

In March 2021, Hannah co-founded Aurah Social, a health and wellness initiative that promotes healthy living as a social movement through monthly events. These events combine physical activities with nourishing food and music, fostering a community-focused atmosphere in various picturesque locations across India.

Shweta George Muthoot is a dynamic and innovative leader in digital marketing, currently serving as the Associate Vice President of Digital Marketing at Muthoot FinCorp, the flagship business of the Muthoot Pappachan Group. A graduate of the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Australia, Shweta brings a global perspective to her work, driving strategic initiatives that enhance the brand’s presence in the financial services industry.

At Muthoot FinCorp, Shweta has spearheaded collaborative projects with renowned celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan, Vidya Balan, and Virat Kohli, as well as with entities like Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Her partnerships with major entertainment platforms such as Netflix and the popular YouTube channel Karikku have significantly amplified Muthoot FinCorp’s reach and engagement.

Shweta’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Muthoot Pappachan Group’s marketing landscape, leveraging digital platforms to connect more effectively with customers. Her innovative mindset and dedication to excellence have not only elevated the company’s brand presence but also contributed to its mission of transforming lives and promoting sustainable growth. Shweta’s strategic acumen, collaborative spirit, and commitment to innovation continue to propel Muthoot FinCorp towards new horizons, solidifying its position as a leader in the financial sector.

Rohini Nilekani is a prominent Indian philanthropist and social activist known for her impactful contributions in various fields. As the founder and chairperson of Arghyam, a foundation dedicated to sustainable water management in India, she has spearheaded initiatives to address the country’s water crisis. Nilekani’s commitment to social causes extends to education, where she founded Pratham Books, a charitable trust aimed at providing children with access to literature.

Through the Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, she supports a wide range of initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and social development. Nilekani’s philanthropic efforts have earned her recognition both nationally and internationally, and she continues to be a driving force for positive change in India.

In addition to her philanthropic work, Nilekani is an accomplished author, with publications that delve into social issues and Indian mythology. Her writings serve as a platform to raise awareness and spark dialogue on important issues facing society.

Nilekani’s dedication to improving the lives of others is evident in her multifaceted approach to philanthropy, which encompasses not only financial support but also active involvement in various projects and initiatives. She remains a steadfast advocate for social justice and equality, inspiring others to join her in making a difference.

Lakshmi Pratury is a multi-faceted entrepreneur, public speaker, master interviewer, and writer. She is the founder and CEO of INKTalks, a transformative platform and community launched in 2010, where she curates stories and a community of global thought-leaders and game-changers.

Lakshmi is a sought-after public speaker and curator – addressing a wide range of leadership topics, including redefining success, future technologies and their role in shaping the workforce, women’s roles in the workplace, and the transformative power of storytelling in business. Alongside her speaking engagements, Lakshmi writes on a range of topics spanning business and life, and has contributed to several leading publications. She is on the board of several startups and initiatives, shaping and guiding teams on scaling globally and building communities. 

With over two decades of experience in the United States, Lakshmi held pivotal roles at Intel, where she helped shape the tech giant’s foray into end user marketing and business development. She worked in venture capital with Global Catalyst Partners and drove impactful projects in leadership roles for the non-profit American India Foundation.

Lakshmi is credited for co-hosting TED’s first and only conference in India in 2009 and bringing Singularity University’s international summit to India in 2015. Continuing her mission with INK and the non-profit INK Global Foundation (IGF), Lakshmi is committed to amplifying India’s narrative on the global stage, bringing the best of the world to India, and vice versa. She champions the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and storytelling to ignite innovation, foster resilience, and shape our collective destiny. Her journey from mathematics gold medalist to business and theater graduate underscores her multifaceted expertise and passion for driving change.

Kirthiga Reddy is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor at the forefront of technological innovation. Currently serving as the CEO of Verix, she spearheads a pioneering platform driven by GenAI and blockchain technology, focusing on authentication, engagement, and monetization across various sectors, including events, awards, creators, brands, and sports. With her extensive experience, Kirthiga brings strategic vision and leadership to Verix, driving its growth and impact in the digital landscape.

Prior to her current role, Kirthiga held significant positions at renowned organizations. She served as a Partner at SoftBank Vision Fund, contributing to investment strategies and fostering innovation in the technology sector. Kirthiga made history as Facebook’s inaugural employee in India and later served as the Managing Director for Facebook India & South Asia, playing a pivotal role in expanding the platform’s reach and engagement across the region.

Committed to social impact, Kirthiga co-founded Liftery, a groundbreaking initiative empowering mothers in their careers. She has also championed women-led initiatives as a Founding Investment Partner of the F7 seed fund and President of Athena Tech II, facilitating access to capital markets and promoting diversity in the tech industry.

Kirthiga’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition, including accolades such as Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business 2013, Business Today’s Hottest Young Executives, Fortune India’s Top 50 Most Powerful Women in India, and the top position in IMPACT’s 50 Most Influential Women list in media, marketing, and advertising 2015. Her remarkable journey continues to inspire and shape the landscape of technology and entrepreneurship in India and beyond.

Anu Sethuram, one of INK’s earliest supporters, is the co-founder and president of INK Global Foundation. Her role combines her passion for promoting intercultural exchange and collaboration with her dedication to social empowerment. Anu is instrumental in the success of the U.S. Roadshow, where she continues to champion the organization’s mission and growth. Her commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and extensive community engagement efforts are integral to Anu’s role.

Vidya Shah is the Executive Chairperson of EdelGive Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Edelweiss Group, a leading financial services company in India. After a successful career in investment banking, Vidya transitioned into philanthropy, driven by a passion to address India’s most pressing development challenges. She founded EdelGive Foundation in 2008 and, over the years, has transformed it into a strategic platform that supports grassroots NGOs across India. The foundation has provided both financial and non-financial resources to over 150 organizations, significantly scaling their impact.

Under Vidya’s leadership, EdelGive has emerged as a trusted philanthropic fund manager and advisor, connecting Indian and international funders with credible NGOs. Her innovative approach to grant-making focuses on placing NGOs at the center of funding decisions, allowing them to access sustainable support from various institutional and corporate partners. This model has established EdelGive as a go-to resource for those looking to engage with India’s development sector.

In addition to her role at EdelGive, Vidya Shah serves on the boards of several prominent civil society organizations such as Akshaya Patra Foundation, Janaagraha, and Mann Deshi Foundation. She also holds positions with international organizations like WINGS and Empower Families for Innovative Philanthropy, and recently joined the Asia Gender Network. Vidya holds an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, and previously worked in investment banking with firms such as ICICI and NM Rothschild before becoming CFO of Edelweiss.

Sukhi Singh is the visionary founder behind Sukhi’s Gourmet Indian Foods, a distinguished brand celebrated for its authentic Indian cuisine meticulously crafted with premium ingredients and time-honored recipes. What began as a solo venture has evolved into a globally recognized enterprise, setting the standard as one of the few USDA-certified, third-party audited Indian food providers. 

Sukhi’s remarkable journey includes groundbreaking achievements, notably becoming the inaugural Indian food company to secure placement in major American retailers like Costco and Whole Foods, marking a significant milestone in introducing Indian flavors to mainstream audiences. Today, Sukhi’s legacy thrives with active involvement from her three children, who play integral roles in steering the company toward continued prosperity and innovation.

Usha Uthup, the iconic Indian singer, stands as a beacon of cultural fusion and musical excellence. Usha’s journey in the world of music spans over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Indian music scene. Her distinctive voice, vibrant stage presence, and paralleled ability to blend various musical genres, including pop, jazz, and Indian folk, has captivated audiences worldwide. Usha Uthup’s breakthrough came with the hit song Darling in 1971, catapulting her to fame and establishing her as a trendsetter in the Indian music industry.

Beyond her musical achievements, Usha Uthup is a philanthropist at heart. She actively supports various charitable causes, particularly those related to education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Her dedication to social causes is reflected in her involvement with organizations like the Rotary Club and the Cancer Patients Aid Association, where she uses her influence to raise awareness and funds for those in need.

Usha’s career is a testament to her versatility and resilience. From performing at prestigious venues around the world to collaborating with renowned artists, she has continuously pushed boundaries and transcended cultural barriers. Her accolades include numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Shri in 2011, and the Padma Bhushan in 2024, recognizing her contributions to Indian music and culture.

Despite her global acclaim, Usha Uthup remains deeply rooted in her Indian heritage. Her passion for music, coupled with her unwavering commitment to social causes, continues to inspire generations of music lovers and philanthropists alike.