India has become the world’s third-largest startup
ecosystem, with over 1.6 lakh DPIIT-registered startups driving innovation,
creating jobs, and transforming industries. These startups are not just
businesses—they're shaping the country’s future by solving real-world problems
and supporting initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. Sectors
like fintech, health tech, deep tech, and sustainability are seeing
breakthroughs, making India a key player in the global startup space.
HT Media
Crafting Bharat Awards 2025: Recognizing Real Impact
The HT Media Crafting Bharat Awards 2025,
an initiative by NewsReach (Vyomeen
Media Pvt Ltd) and curated by Fever
Network, was all about celebrating people and organizations driving change.
What started as the Crafting Bharat
Podcast, a platform to share startup journeys, has grown into a space that
not only tells these stories but also acknowledges the work behind them.
Held on 21st February 2025 at the ITC Grand Central, Mumbai, the event
brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders for a night of
recognition, meaningful conversations, and insights. It wasn’t just another
startup awards event—it went beyond traditional categories to celebrate those
shaping Bharat in different ways. From founders and technocrats to artists,
scientists, and social impact leaders, the awards highlighted individuals
making a real difference in India’s growth story. With leaders from diverse
sectors in the room, the event became more than just a ceremony—it reflected
how far India’s startup ecosystem has come and where it’s headed next.
A big shoutout to our
gifting partners for adding thoughtful touches to the event. Sylvi, founded by Krushna Ghevariya and Ishan Kukadia, gifted watches combining style
and functionality. Magical Blends,
led by Uttara, treated awardees to
premium skincare kits, making the experience even more special.
The awards were
presented in three categories:
●
30
Under 30 – Recognizing young trailblazers
●
40
Under 40 – Honoring mid-career achievers
●
Bharat
Innovators – Celebrating change-makers across industries
It was a night of
stories, connections, and acknowledging those who are shaping the future of
Bharat.
Here’s a glimpse into
the Changemakers who made it to the winners’ list
Sangram Singh – A Champion of
Strength, Resilience, and Inspiration
A celebrated professional wrestler, motivational speaker, and youth icon, Sangram Singh was honored by Bharat Innovators for his extraordinary
journey of perseverance and determination. Overcoming immense challenges, he
has not only excelled in wrestling but also inspired millions with his
motivational talks and philanthropic efforts. His story is a testament to the
power of resilience, making him a true role model for the youth of Bharat.
Dia Mirza – Social Impact Leader -
Leading with Purpose, Beyond the Spotlight’ award
A celebrated actress, producer, and UN
Environment Goodwill Ambassador, Dia
Mirza was honored under the Bharat
Innovators category for her relentless advocacy for sustainability,
wildlife conservation, and climate action. While she is celebrated for her
versatility in Indian cinema, her contributions go far beyond the screen.
A strong advocate for sustainability, environmental conservation, and social causes, Dia
has consistently used her platform to drive awareness and action. Whether
championing climate initiatives or supporting underprivileged communities, she
has shown what it means to lead with purpose.
Avinash Tiwary – A Changemaker in
Cinema who is redefining storytelling through his performances.
A powerhouse of talent and versatility, Avinash Tiwary was recognized under Bharat Innovators for his
transformative impact on Indian cinema. From playing a passionate lover in
Laila Majnu to an enigmatic charmer in Bulbul, Avinash has consistently
impressed audiences with his versatility. His dedication to meaningful cinema
has not only elevated the industry but also inspired emerging talent. With each
project, he continues to challenge norms, reshape narratives, and contribute to
the evolution of Bollywood storytelling. As he takes on new roles and explores
fresh narratives, Avinash Tiwary remains a true innovator in Indian cinema.
Swastika Mukherjee – Breaking
Barriers in Entertainment
An acclaimed actress known for her fearless
and unconventional roles, Swastika
Mukherjee was honored under Bharat
Innovators for challenging norms and bringing powerful, nuanced
performances to Indian cinema. She took center stage—not just as a celebrated
actress but as a true trailblazer in Indian and Bengali cinema. Known for her
bold and powerful performances, she has captivated audiences with her talent
and authenticity, redefining storytelling with every role she takes on.
Beyond cinema, Swastika has been a passionate
advocate for animal rights, using
her platform to raise awareness and give a voice to the voiceless. Whether
through her artistry or activism, she continues to stand for what truly
matters, proving that being a star is not just about being in the
spotlight—it’s about using that platform for meaningful change.
The Crafting Bharat Awards celebrated
trailblazing innovators and leaders reshaping industries with groundbreaking
contributions. Among them, Shalil Gupta of Ozonetel redefined customer
experiences, while Sitla Thakur of FundBezzie set new benchmarks in digital
investment platforms. Harddik K Patel of Quali5Care revolutionized healthcare,
and Viswaprasad S Nair of Bindwel spearheaded technological transformation.
Social impact was at the heart of the awards,
with Arhan Bagati of KYARI leading change, Dr. Meenakshi Shanbhag of Makoons
championing early childhood development, and Sanjay Khimesera advocating for
media excellence. The event also highlighted startup ecosystem builders like
Sravanth Gajula & Sandeep Bommireddi of AdOnMo and Shikhar Neogi of Neoble
Corp.
Tech and digital innovation were celebrated
with Praanesh Bhuvaneswar of Qoruz excelling in influencer marketing, Sidharth
Ghosh of ITW Playworx redefining entertainment tech, and Dhaval Patel of S.D.
HUB shaping e-commerce and fintech. Anuj Tiwari, founder of Innovit
Technologies, pushed AI advancements, while Samkit Shah of Jitendra EV
pioneered electric mobility solutions.
In the business and media landscape, Shrikant
Pandey of Indiamanthan Publications reinforced business journalism, and Bhumish
Sheth of Zimble Marketing elevated digital marketing standards. Jithin
Sethumadhavan of Qoruz was recognized for agency leadership, and Deepanshu
Shukla and Sujith Gopinath advanced tech and healthcare communications.
Industry transformation was a key theme, with
Unni Bhaskar revolutionizing airport infrastructure, Premjith Edassery of Bloom
Hotel leading tech-driven hospitality, and Vinitt Dessai innovating hair systems.
Dr. Chinuu Kwatra was honored for his environmental sustainability efforts, and
Suyash Singh of GalaxEye for deep-tech advancements.
The awards also recognized financial and
compliance excellence, with Mohit Agarwal of Wockhardt leading pharma innovation,
Suraj Nangia excelling in tax and audit solutions, and Dr. Nishant S. Mehta
shaping fintech auditing. Jitendra Somani of Pocket HRMS and Mayuresh Darne
contributed to fintech and startup ecosystems, respectively.
Leaders in entertainment and creative
industries, such as SIMA RAAJ of Golden Hue Productions and Shripal of Enjoy,
were celebrated for their artistic contributions. Meanwhile, Nazneen of
Aminsofttech led the future of tech solutions, and Aalok Kumar of NEC India was
recognized for empowering citizens.
From engineering innovations by Viraj of
Unitech Power Solutions to fintech excellence by Vishesh Rajaram of Speciale
Invest, these visionaries continue to drive Bharat forward. Their dedication
and achievements illuminate the path toward a more innovative, sustainable, and
inclusive future.
The Crafting Bharat Awards honored pioneers,
disruptors, and visionaries across industries, recognizing their outstanding
contributions to business, technology, healthcare, education, and social
impact.
From Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, who
revolutionized multi-specialty healthcare at Kauvery Hospitals, to Poornima
Garg, who led impactful social initiatives at Room to Read India, each awardee
exemplified excellence. Naga Srirama Narasimha Raviteja Malladi and Akshatha
Madapura Anantharamu transformed the tech and e-commerce landscapes, while
Sanjeev Jain redefined the automobile industry. Zeeshan Mansoori spearheaded
organic growth in digital platforms, and Aakash Jugraj shaped AI and blockchain
media.
The awards also recognized Harshvardhan
Chauhan, who innovated in the FMCG sector, and Pankaj Kumar Choudhary, who set
trends in luxury fashion. Devarshi Malviya bridged investors and F&B
brands, while Dr. Mickey Keki Mehta advanced holistic health. Jagadish Nangineni
led luxury real estate, and Rohan Paul transformed the lens manufacturing
industry. In the financial sector, Manish Lalwani and Harsh Jha drove
innovations in wealth management and financial distress resolution.
Trailblazers in content, education, and entrepreneurship
included Prof. Dr. Parin Somani, who reshaped global education, and Mithun
Chakravarthy, who played a key role in the media and creator economy. Thomson
R. Andrews was recognized as a visionary in music and media, and Sonia Kotak
made a significant impact on social media. Shivam Mehta excelled in digital
marketing, and Jobo Kuruvilla redefined disruptive marketing.
Leaders in financial inclusion, such as Ankita
Mitra, Chandan Khaitan, and Kunal Jhunjhaunwal, ensured greater accessibility
to secured lending, while Wilson and Gaurav Thaker revolutionized luxury
branding and beauty tech. Amitabh Shah drove social impact, Rakkesh R. Uddiyar
led in fitness.These awardees demonstrated innovation, leadership, and a
commitment to excellence, shaping India's future across diverse industries.
A Celebration That Goes Beyond
Awards
Vyomeen
Media Private Limited led News Reach and the HT Media Crafting Bharat Awards 2025
wasn’t just about recognizing achievements—it was about bringing together
people who are shaping the future. It showcased stories of resilience,
innovation, and purpose, inspiring others to push boundaries and create lasting
change.
As the event came to a close, it left behind
more than just accolades. It sparked conversations, strengthened connections,
and reinforced the vision of a self-reliant,
forward-thinking Bharat. Every awardee’s journey served as a reminder that
progress isn’t just about big ideas—it’s about the people who dare to make them
happen.
This wasn’t just an awards night. It was a
movement. And the journey of Crafting
Bharat is far from over.