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The ‘Wonder Women’ in marketing
Mumbai: Women across various corporate circles have always waded through the additional challenges life threw at them. Being professional leaders, mothers, homemakers, they played a pivotal role in achieving their all roles and responsibilities. These are the women who truly inspire millions of other women and have broken the glass ceiling.
Like the popular character from American comic books published by DC Comics – ‘Wonder Woman,’ their role was no less when it came to ensuring the organisations sail through the difficult times while keeping their workforce motivated.
The real-life powerhouse women leaders are very similar to a modern-day ‘Wonder Women’, and their inspiring stories instil a sense of empowerment and self-belief that one can take on the world.
DBS Bank India executive director and head-group strategic marketing and communications Shoma Narayanan says her ‘Wonder Woman’ moment was when Harlequin’s first book was released globally. “I was more excited than I can say. But I feel my mother has been my number one ‘Wonder Woman’. Growing up, I have always admired how she balanced her work as a teacher, with responsibilities at home and her passion for music,” says Narayanan, who has carved a niche for herself in the industry with her exceptional work.
Bisleri International director-marketing and business development Anjana Ghosh is another such multi-faceted women leader who has made a mark for herself through her work. Reminiscing about her journey, Ghosh says, “I remember the moment when I first walked into a crowd of workers who were raising slogans against the management. It was the first time I ever addressed a gathering. The workers heard me out of respect for a woman and believed that I could address their problem. They eventually called off the strike, but that moment gave me a sense of power as a woman.”
Ghosh’s inspiration comes from several women who have struggled against odds to rise to fulfil their dreams. “I especially admire women who achieved a status in life against all odds. Indian gymnasts Dipa Karmarkar and Avani Sabade are a few among many who inspire me,” she adds.
However, the achievements were not easy to come by for either of them and like all women, they persisted. But if they were ever given an opportunity to bring a change like a ‘Wonder Woman’, they wouldn’t hesitate to ensure the path gets easier for others. “That would be the day! I would remove the many barriers, both actual and self-imposed, that women face,” says Narayanan.
However, Ghosh adds one more wish to the list. “If I were a ‘Wonder Woman,’ I would ensure that our country becomes ‘Swachh Bharat’ in the true sense,” she says.
The Indian television premiere of “Wonder Woman 1984” is set to take place on Movies Now, MNX, and MN+ on 31 October at 1 p.m. and 9 p.m.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
