MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN - THE CULTURATI

The world today is much fairer than before. We believe we are inclusive and value equality. But the truth of the matter is that there’s still a long way to go

- Jyotsna Sharma

Runway Hit Anita Dongre, Indian fashion designer

Anita Dongre drives her success from her rooted, eco-fashion and simplistic approach. She is one of the few designers whose signature style exudes affinity for indigenous craft tradition, coupled with a modern aesthetic. “What you wear is an expression of who you are, and how you want to be seen. Fashion is a powerful tool of creativity, self-respect and change,” she asserts. The designer also leads The Anita Dongre Foundation which helps rural women have an equal voice by providing them with livelihood opportunities and skill training. An ethical vegan, environmentalist and revivalist of local craft, Dongre is an advocate of compassionate living. SOUMYA

Rebellious Yet Resolute Arundhati Roy, Author

Best known as a prolific writer and a valiant political activist, Arundhati Roy is a woman with unwavering courage. The start of her journey was as gripping, where her debut novel, ‘The God of Small Things’, established her as one of the most revered writers of the Indian literary canon. Having spearheaded several social movements, the author’s grit, gumption and prowess to break conventions make her one of the prominent names in the literary circles, especially for her unflinching political opinions.

Her multi-hyphenated life also includes a brief stint in the film industry to eventually winning the national award. SOUMYA

A Bookish Affair Chiki Sarkar, Publisher and Co-founder, Juggernaut Books