The fifth edition of the Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar Mahila Samman 2026, powered by Kamala Power Women and initiated by Mrs. Nidarshana Gowani, was successfully held in New Delhi on 10th March 2026. The prestigious event aims to honour outstanding women from across the country who have made a meaningful impact on society through resilience, innovation and leadership.
Launched five years ago, the initiative was envisioned to recognise women who have carved their own identities through determination and perseverance, often without strong institutional backing. Over the years, the platform has grown into a respected national recognition that celebrates women not only from metropolitan cities but also from tier-two and tier-three regions, including those from economically weaker sections and specially-abled backgrounds.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, policymakers and social leaders. The event was graced by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Cabinet Minister for Culture and Tourism; Smt. Annapurna Devi, Union Minister of Women & Child Development; Shri Manoj Tiwari, Member of Lok Sabha; H.E. Mr. Mariano Caucino, Ambassador of Argentina to India; H.E. Mr Erick Jean-Marie Zinsou, Ambassador of the Republic of Benin to India; and Mrs. Swati Singh Verma, wife of Delhi’s Deputy Chief Minister Mr Pravesh Verma.
Speaking on the occasion, Mrs Nidarshana Gowani said, “This year, we have honoured 65 inspiring and accomplished women from across the country. Along with well-known personalities such as Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal, Rupali Ganguly, Tanishaa Mukerji, Dr. Jai Madaan, Shalini Passi and Roopa Iyer, we have also recognised remarkable women like Jeigyashree Soibam from Manipur, Mauli Adkur from Maharashtra, Arifa Jan from Jammu & Kashmir, Renuka Goswami from Vrindavan and D. Aaliya from Bihar, who are working tirelessly to uplift women and contribute to positive social change.”
The awards recognised women achievers from several states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Manipur, representing diverse fields such as media, journalism, public service, law, education, entrepreneurship, technology, science, sports, social work, spirituality, arts and community leadership.
The event celebrated women who have not only excelled in their respective professions but have also played a crucial role in empowering communities and creating opportunities for others.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs Gowani further added, “Inspired by the vision of ‘Nari Shakti’ championed by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kamala Foundation remains committed to recognising and celebrating the strength, leadership and achievements of women across different fields. The Lokmata Ahilyabai Women’s Award is our humble effort to honour those who are creating meaningful change in society.”
As the fifth edition concluded, the Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar Mahila Samman 2026 reaffirmed its vision of celebrating women who embody the strength, resilience and spirit of India.