News18 She Shakti 2025, presented by Lions International, turned into a powerful celebration of women who are driving change and shaping the future of the nation. The grand finale, held in Delhi under the theme ‘From Breaking Barriers to Building Bharat,’ brought together trailblazing leaders, policymakers, and changemakers from across sectors.

The event was part of a press release highlighting how She Shakti has grown into a thriving platform that honours women’s spirit, resilience, and excellence. It witnessed an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including Smriti Irani, Former Cabinet Minister & Founder of The Alliance for Global Good; Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA), Government of India; Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India; Mallika Srinivasan, Chairman & MD, Tractors and Farm Equipment; actors Kriti Sanon and Sanya Malhotra; Professor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit, Vice-Chancellor, Jawaharlal Nehru University; and veteran playback singer Kavita Krishnamurti Subramaniam, among others.

In her special video message, President Droupadi Murmu asserted that India’s vision for women-centric change is firm and transformative. She underlined how women are no longer waiting for opportunities but are creating them across diverse fields, from science and defence to arts and entrepreneurship. “As scientists, engineers, doctors, soldiers, artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, academicians, social workers, policy makers, and in many other roles, women are consistently reaching new heights… In reality, this is not just a change, but a revolution,” the President said, stressing the importance of greater recognition and leadership opportunities for women.

Former Cabinet Minister Smriti Irani, speaking about the value of financial independence, shared her own journey of perseverance. “If I had limited myself to what I presumed was my capacity, I wouldn’t be who I am today. Twenty-five years ago, I was already the highest-paid actor in the television industry and those numbers were considered astronomical even then,” she said. Urging women to take pride in their earnings, she added, “We are often told to be coy, timid, or quiet about our paychecks. I say, scream it out loud. Your paycheck is a certification of how you’re valued as a professional.”

Adding a note on entrepreneurship, actor Kriti Sanon, who recently ventured into the beauty business, highlighted the unique strengths women bring to leadership. “I truly believe women have a problem-solving mindset. We don’t just see a problem, we instinctively look for a solution. That ability is so important for an entrepreneur—to find ways around every roadblock, stay patient, and keep pushing forward,” she remarked.

Actor Sanya Malhotra, reflecting on her widely acclaimed performance in Mrs., spoke about women’s right to freedom within the household and society. “The problem isn’t that she didn’t want to cook. She was cooking, even serving it nicely, but getting zero appreciation from the family. The problem started when she wanted to do something else and showed the family that she is capable of managing the household, and also wants to go out and pursue something she loves,” she said, noting how the film resonated with audiences.

Over the years, News18 She Shakti has evolved into a national platform that celebrates women’s contributions across policy, education, defence, arts, social activism, and beyond. This year’s edition once again underscored the importance of gender diversity and women’s leadership in building a stronger, inclusive, and progressive Bharat.