Women’s Day special: The women who gave away crores to build a better India

MUMBAI: Philanthropy in India is undergoing a powerful transformation, and women are at its forefront. India’s top donors collectively contributed over Rs 10,000 crore in a single year, with several influential women leading high-impact initiatives across healthcare, education, research, and social reform. This Women’s Day, their stories offer a powerful reminder that wealth, when paired with purpose, can reshape communities and create lasting change.

At the forefront of this movement is Rohini Nilekani, widely recognised as India’s most generous woman philanthropist. With a donation of Rs 204 crore, she continues to support initiatives focused on social innovation, governance, and environmental resilience. Rather than limiting her efforts to financial contributions alone, Nilekani has built a strong ecosystem of change through her philanthropic work, backing long-term institutional development and civil society initiatives. Through platforms such as Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and the EkStep Foundation, she has consistently focused on solutions that address systemic challenges and strengthen democratic institutions.

Close behind is Susmita Bagchi, co-founder of Mindtree, whose philanthropic efforts have made a significant impact in healthcare, particularly in Odisha. With a Rs 90 crore contribution, Bagchi has helped expand access to quality cancer treatment and research in the region. Working alongside her husband, she has supported the establishment of world-class medical facilities, bringing affordable and advanced healthcare services to communities that previously lacked such resources.

Another prominent figure in India’s philanthropic ecosystem is Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the founder of Biocon and a long-time advocate for science-led social impact. Through Mazumdar-Shaw Philanthropy, she has contributed Rs 83 crore toward initiatives that support scientific research, healthcare innovation, and medical infrastructure. Her efforts aim not only to strengthen India’s healthcare systems but also to position the country as a global hub for cutting-edge medical research and breakthrough treatments.

Education remains a key focus area for many women philanthropists, and Anu Aga, former chairperson of Thermax, stands out for her sustained commitment in this space. Having donated Rs 56 crore, Aga continues to work closely with NGOs such as the Akanksha Foundation, which focuses on providing quality education to underprivileged children in cities like Mumbai and Pune. Even after stepping away from corporate leadership, she has remained deeply involved in grassroots initiatives aimed at improving access to schooling and creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities.

Among the top contributors is also Bina Shah, whose work through the Harish and Bina Shah Foundation reflects a holistic approach to philanthropy. With donations amounting to Rs 69 crore, Shah has supported a diverse range of causes, including the arts, environmental sustainability, and community development. Her efforts highlight how philanthropy can nurture both social welfare and cultural enrichment.

The list of influential women donors extends further with leaders who continue to support impactful initiatives across sectors. Leena Gandhi Tewari, chairperson of USV, contributed Rs 25 crore, focusing on healthcare initiatives and programmes aimed at empowering women. Sara George Muthoot, associated with the Muthoot Group, has channelled her philanthropic efforts into community welfare and education initiatives that benefit underserved populations.

Philanthropy in healthcare and social welfare has also been strengthened by Manju D. Gupta of Lupin, whose charitable initiatives have supported healthcare access and community development programmes. Meanwhile, Archana Chandra, through the A.T.E. Chandra Foundation, has focused on critical issues such as water conservation and strengthening the capacity of organisations working in the social sector.

Rounding out the list is Shabana Faizal, whose work through the Faizal and Shabana Foundation has contributed to rural development initiatives and improvements in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions.

Together, these women represent a powerful shift in India’s philanthropic landscape. Their contributions go beyond charity, focusing instead on long-term investments that address systemic challenges and create sustainable social impact. Their efforts span critical sectors such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, research, and rural development—areas that shape the country’s future.

As highlighted in data from the 2025 EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List, these women rank among India’s most generous donors, demonstrating that philanthropy is no longer just the domain of large corporate institutions but also of individuals committed to driving meaningful change.

This Women’s Day, their stories serve as a reminder that leadership is not only about building successful enterprises, but also about using influence and resources to uplift communities and create opportunities for generations to come.