Uma Sudhir, Executive Editor at NDTV, stands as a pillar of integrity and fearlessness in Indian journalism. With a focus on politics, extremism, human trafficking, and development issues concerning women, children, and rural communities, her impactful work has earned multiple prestigious honors. She received the Chameli Devi Jain Award for Outstanding Woman Journalist (2017) and the Ramnath Goenka Award for uncovering hidden issues in India, notably with her reports on human trafficking. Her series “Baby India” on the challenges facing the girl child won her the IPI Award, presented by former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Recognized five times with the UNFPA Laadli Award, she has also been honored by the Telangana government for her work in development journalism. Acknowledged by FICCI and PRSI for her commitment to values and journalistic excellence, Uma’s work consistently exemplifies the impact of values, integrity, consistency and dedication in journalism, powered by kindness and positivity.
Chef Sanjay Thumma, better known as Vah-Chef is the dynamic force behind the globally celebrated cooking site, Vahrehvah.com. Since launching his engaging recipe channel in 2007, he has captivated food lovers everywhere with over 750 million views, particularly resonating with the Indian diaspora. Sanjay’s charisma extends to television, where he shines as a judge on MasterChef India – Telugu, inspiring home chefs across the nation in both seasons. With a flair for flavor and a passion for sharing culinary joy, Sanjay Thumma has become a household name in Indian cuisine worldwide.
Dr. Prahlada Ramarao, renowned aerospace scientist and Padma Shri recipient, led India’s AKASH Missile System development, a major surface-to-air defense system inducted by the Army and Air Force and valued at over Rs 50,000 Crores. As Director of DRDL, he directed India’s K-15 Submarine Launched Missile and BRAHMOS supersonic missile programs, working closely with former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. A former Distinguished Scientist at DRDO, he managed major missile projects and international collaborations. After retirement, he served as Vice-Chancellor of Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune, the only Defence University in the Country. An esteemed fellow of multiple scientific academies, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Hylenr Technologies, pioneering in Cold Fusion research.
Ravi Prabhu is one of India’s most accomplished travelers, the first and only Telugu person to visit every country on the planet (195/195), a feat achieved by a tiny fraction of people globally. Hailing from Visakhapatnam and a graduate of Hyderabad, Ravi now resides in the USA. His journey spans continents and cultures, embracing the diversity of the world—all while balancing a career and family. Ravi’s story is a testament to passion and perseverance, proving that exploring the world doesn’t require leaving behind the life you love.
Dr. Emani Sivanagi Reddy, an esteemed archaeologist and historian, holds a Ph.D. in History and has a profound legacy in the conservation of heritage. A master of traditional sculpture, he transplanted over 100 historic temples and constructed more than 100 new ones across Andhra Pradesh. He has participated in many archaeological excavations and took up conservation of select Kakatiya Temples in Telangana. Honored with the ‘Vastusilpavachaspati’ title and AP’s prestigious Kalaratna award in 2019, he has authored 100+ books and 500 articles on archaeology and culture. Dr. Reddy currently serves as CEO of Pleach India Foundation and Buddhist Consultant for Telangana Tourism.
Meet Mayur Patnala, visionary social entrepreneur and Founder & Global CEO of Nirmaan Organization. Under his leadership, Nirmaan has empowered over 3 million people across 23 Indian states through initiatives in education, skill development, and health. What began in 2005 as a student-led mission at BITS Pilani has expanded to 40+ programs aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals, impacting marginalized communities, youth, and women. Recognized internationally through the U.S. State Department’s IVLP, Mayur has also received accolades such as the “Champions of Change” Award and BITSAA Global 30 Under 30. His journey, from volunteering to reshaping lives, epitomizes resilience and a relentless pursuit of social equity.
