https://blog.blueribbonaward.com

Category: Awardees

  • Sampathkumar Mallaya, Chairman & Managing Director, Samko Holdings

    Sampathkumar Mallaya, Chairman & Managing Director, Samko Holdings

    Sampathkumar Mallaya is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and business strategist with a diverse and expansive global business portfolio spanning hospitality, flagship restaurants, leisure, petrochemicals, industrial asset management, and oil & gas. With a background in mechanical engineering, he has played a critical role in transforming and optimizing high-value assets across Europe and the UK, collaborating with globally recognized brands such as Jaguar and Nissan.

    His expertise in asset management has driven successful projects in Spain, Switzerland, and the UK, and he made history as the first Indian-origin owner of a Victorian estate in Kingston upon Thames. His leadership in hospitality and the restaurant sector has been recognized by industry leaders, including British Council delegates and NHS Kingston, for his contributions to business development and community engagement.

    Beyond his business acumen, Sampathkumar is a dedicated supporter of economic empowerment, particularly among young professionals from Tamil Nadu, India. As a testament to his impact and entrepreneurial success, he has been honored with the Successful Entrepreneur of the Year award by the World Tamil Organisation (UK).

    With an unwavering commitment to growth, he continues to expand his business empire with vision and determination. His approach to leadership focuses on sustainable investment, strategic diversification, and nurturing talent. Known for his humility, strong family values, and deep connection to Tamil culture, he remains at the forefront of global investment, driving new ventures while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

  • Dr. Ajay Kumar Bhandari, CEO Kazind Medical Group, Kazakhstan

    Dr. Ajay Kumar Bhandari, CEO Kazind Medical Group, Kazakhstan

    A trailblazer in international healthcare, Dr. Ajay Kumar Bhandari has redefined cross-border medical collaboration. As Director of Kazind Medical Group, he is at the forefront of a landmark initiative with the SRAM & MRAM Group to establish a world-class medical university, a 1,000-bed multi-specialty hospital, and advanced healthcare facilities in Almaty, Kazakhstan. This visionary project aims to transform the region into a hub for medical education, research, and patient care at global standards.

    Born in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Bhandari pursued his MBBS and MD Physician degrees from Kazakhstan International Medical University in 2011. His journey from a practicing physician to a healthcare entrepreneur began with RMP Global Events, a successful healthcare products trading firm that cemented his reputation for delivering quality and innovation.
    Recognised by Kazakhstan’s local authorities for his contributions, Dr. Bhandari has become a respected permanent resident and a symbol of Indo-Kazakh medical partnership. His leadership blends clinical expertise, entrepreneurial insight, and a deep commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare.
    Married to Aliya Muratovna Rahimzhanova, with whom he shares four daughters, Dr. Bhandari balances global ambitions with strong family values. His work reflects a belief in healthcare as a bridge between nations—promoting not just treatment and education, but also cultural and professional exchange.
    With an unwavering vision for medical excellence, Dr. Bhandari continues to shape the future of healthcare in Central Asia and beyond.
  • Renu Singh Bakirci, Founder and CEO, Rean Earth

    Renu Singh Bakirci, Founder and CEO, Rean Earth

    Renu Singh Bakirci is the dynamic Founder and CEO of Rean Earth, a pioneering climate-innovation company dedicated to accelerating the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

    With a foundation in commodity trading, Renu began her career as an oil trader before establishing a successful trading firm. She then expanded into founding and investing across sectors such as technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
    At the helm of Rean Earth, Renu has architected an integrated clean-energy ecosystem that uniquely converges Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green hydrogen, and green methanol.

    Under her leadership, the company is actively driving projects across Europe, Central Asia, and South America—demonstrating a bold global footprint and commitment to scalable, multi-sector solutions.

    Her strategic vision blends systems-level thinking with entrepreneurial acumen, forging powerful intersections among energy, agriculture, and technology. Renu’s work emphasizes real-world climate impact—advancing innovations that help decarbonize some of the world’s most challenging and emissions-intensive sectors.

    Recognized as one of today’s most influential female founders in the clean-energy space, Renu Singh Bakirci has earned a reputation as both a powerful entrepreneur and a compelling voice in sustainability.

    Her leadership embodies the innovation, global reach, and practical impact that exemplify the spirit of the Blue Ribbon Award.

  • Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, VP Axis Bank, Playback Singer, Social Activist

    Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, VP Axis Bank, Playback Singer, Social Activist

    Amruta Fadnavis is an accomplished individual with a multifaceted career spanning banking, music, and social activism. She has earned multiple accolades for her work and dedications. In recognition of her commitment to social causes, she was honored with the Woman of the Year award in 2015 by the AAN Foundation for her service to women’s dignity and equality. She also received the Nelson Mandela Humanitarian Award and a Certificate of Recognition.

    Fadnavis’s impact extends to her banking career, where she was awarded the Suryadatta National Award in 2016 for excellence in the field of Banking & Finance. Additionally, she received the Women’s Excellence Awards and the Woman of Substance Award in 2017. Her documentary, The Voice, won the Best Film Documentary at IndieFEST in 2019.

    A trained classical singer from the age of six, Amruta Fadnavis has used her musical talent to advocate for change. She has sung for social causes, including a song for acid attack victims and the “Mumbai River Anthem” to raise awareness about environmental issues. In 2022, her rendition of the “Shiva Tandava Stotra” received over 12 million views on YouTube.

    Her philanthropic efforts are evident in her work with the Divyaj Foundation, which organized a fashion show for acid attack survivors. She also initiated a musical talent show called Mitti Ke Sitare for underprivileged children. She has represented India at the National Prayer Breakfast and as a peace ambassador between India and China.

    Amruta Fadnavis has consistently demonstrated her commitment to various causes and has been recognized for her excellence in multiple fields.

  • Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd.), PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM — Governor of Uttarakhand

    Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh (Retd.), PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM — Governor of Uttarakhand

    Lt. Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd.) is a highly decorated former Indian Army officer and currently serves as the eighth Governor of Uttarakhand, having taken office on 15 September 2021.

    Commissioned in 1976, he culminated a distinguished nearly four-decade military career, holding critical appointments such as Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Information Systems & Training), Adjutant General, and Corps Commander of the strategic XV Corps overseeing the Line of Control in Kashmir.

    As Additional Director General of Military Operations, he shaped India-China border strategy, participated in key diplomatic forums for over a decade, and visited China seven times, including leading a military delegation in 2012.

    Honored with four Presidential awards—the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal—and two Chief of Army Staff commendations, his service has been marked by exceptional leadership and valor.

    As Governor of Uttarakhand, he has prioritized women’s empowerment, ex-servicemen welfare, technological innovation, organic farming, and reverse migration. He has introduced AI-driven governance at Raj Bhavan, transparent university appointments, real-time public outreach initiatives, and the state’s toughest anti-cheating ordinance to bolster meritocracy in recruitment.

    Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh exemplifies strategic excellence, scholarly insight, and compassionate leadership—fortifying national security in uniform and nurturing Uttarakhand’s growth in office.

  • Shri. Ghanshyam Das Goyal, Chairman, G.D. Buildtech Pvt. Ltd.

    Shri. Ghanshyam Das Goyal, Chairman, G.D. Buildtech Pvt. Ltd.

    Shri Ghanshyam Das Goyal was born in Rohtak, Haryana, into the family of Shri Premchand Goyal. For more than 35 years, he has been associated with various organizations and has consistently contributed through his dedicated service.

    He has rendered exception service in the field of education while serving as the Chairman of Ekal Bharat Lok Shiksha Parishad, which comes under Ekal Abhiyan; an organization that has received the highest honor; the Gandhi Peace Price.

    He played a key role in the establishment of the Shri Balaji Nirogdham, Bakhtawarpur, and served as its President for 20 years. He has also been actively involved in institutions such as Maharaja Agrasena Hospital, Punjabi Bagh, amongst others. His support has always been available to institutions working towards uniting Vaishya and Agarwal communities.

  • Mr. Atul Chordia, Visionary Founder and Chairman, Panchshil Realty

    Mr. Atul Chordia, Visionary Founder and Chairman, Panchshil Realty

    With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Mr. Atul Chordia has transformed Pune’s skyline and beyond through his pioneering vision in luxury real estate, hospitality, and integrated urban development.

    A commerce graduate from the University of Pune, he launched Panchshil Realty in 2002 and has since positioned it among India’s preeminent premium real estate brands.

    Under his leadership, the company delivered landmark developments: South Asia’s largest convention centre (ICC Pune), India’s first IT SEZ (EON Free Zone), and the city’s inaugural World Trade Centre and Trump Towers. He also introduced the country’s first internationally branded residence—Yoopune by Philippe Starck—and spearheaded partnerships with global hospitality giants including Marriott, Hilton, and Ritz-Carlton.

    His strategic foresight extended into hospitality, founding Ventive Hospitality to develop and manage luxury hotels such as JW Marriott Pune, The Ritz-Carlton Pune, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Aloft Bengaluru. In December 2024, under his stewardship, Ventive achieved a successful public listing within just six months, marking a milestone in his bold leadership journey.

    Mr. Chordia’s contribution has been recognized widely: he holds memberships with WTC Council, NAREDCO, CREDAI-Pune Metro, YPO, FICCI Real Estate Committee, and more. Honors include the Times of India’s Real Estate Icons of Pune (2022), Developer of the Year (Hotelier India), Asia One’s World’s Greatest Leaders, and Legendary of Maharashtra — Icons of Jain Samaj Awards.

    Driven by innovation, elegance, and social commitment, Mr. Chordia continues redefining modern Indian living—bridging architectural excellence with lifestyle, sustainability, and enduring legacy.

  • Mr. Hanmantrao Ramdas Gaikwad,Founder, BVG India Ltd.

    Mr. Hanmantrao Ramdas Gaikwad,Founder, BVG India Ltd.

    Born in October 1972 in Rahimatpur village, Satara district, Maharashtra, Hanmantrao Gaikwad’s journey from humble beginnings to national prominence is a testament to perseverance and purpose. Despite early hardships, including the loss of his father when he was 18, long commutes by bicycle, and finances stretched to the limit, he earned his engineering degree through sheer grit and an earn-and-learn routine.

    At nineteen, he founded the social initiative Bharat Vikas Pratishthan, laying the roots for what would become Bharat Vikas Group (BVG).

    During his tenure at Tata Motors in Pune (then TELCO), he innovatively repurposed discarded cables—saving the company ₹2 crore—and secured support to hire his village youth via a trust model, marking BVG’s humble beginnings in 1997 with just eight employees.

    Under his leadership, BVG has grown into India’s largest integrated socio-commercial services enterprise—employing over 90,000 people, empowering 13,000 women, and delivering services across more than 20 states.

    The group handles critical facilities—from the Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan to emergency medical and police services, solid waste management, agriculture, and herbal healthcare innovations.

    A recipient of distinguished honors such as the J.R.D. Tata Udyog Ratna and Maxell Award, Hanmantrao continues to inspire with his vision, i.e., to positively impact 10 crore (100 million) lives by 2030.

  • Mr. Alan Strutt, World-Renowned Portrait Photographer

    Mr. Alan Strutt, World-Renowned Portrait Photographer

    Alan Strutt is an internationally acclaimed British portrait photographer whose lens has immortalised some of the most recognisable faces in fashion, film, music, and royalty. Over a career spanning more than three decades, his powerful, cinematic imagery has graced the pages of Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, The Times, and numerous international publications, as well as exhibitions across Europe and North America.

    Renowned for his rare blend of precision, atmosphere, and emotional depth, Alan’s portraits go beyond the surface to capture the soul of his subjects. His immersive approach often involves spending days with those he photographs, earning trust and revealing their most authentic selves. This distinctive style has made him the trusted choice for legends including Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Anthony Hopkins, Eric Clapton, Antonio Banderas, Pamela Anderson, Keith Richards, Kate Winslet, Christian Bale, Robbie Williams, Victoria Beckham, Jude Law, and global leaders such as Imran Khan and HRH Sultanah of Pahang.

    From the fashion capitals of London, Paris, and Milan to cultural epicentres like New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and the Maldives, Alan’s portfolio reflects a global perspective and timeless vision.

    Beyond his celebrated editorial and commercial work, Alan is deeply committed to humanitarian causes. His photography has supported organisations including Comic Relief, Save the Children, Born Free, and Ikamva Labantu, with his work helping fund initiatives such as building a school in Cape Town’s townships.

    A true master of his craft, Alan Strutt continues to inspire, influence, and elevate the art of portrait photography worldwide.

  • Ms. Yamini Swami, Actor | Filmmaker | Writer | Producer

    Ms. Yamini Swami, Actor | Filmmaker | Writer | Producer

    Yamini Swami is a vibrant force in contemporary Indian cinema—an actor, filmmaker, writer, and producer known for crafting stories that blend empowerment with emotional depth. She gained nationwide recognition with Badhai Ho Beti Huee Hai (2022), a socially relevant family drama that she directed, produced, wrote, and starred in, portraying the powerful role of Shakti Singh. The film’s trailer launch by the Governor of Rajasthan underscored its alignment with the Beti Padhao–Beti Bachao mission, championing themes of women’s empowerment and societal change. What makes Yamini’s journey remarkable is her self-taught path. With no formal training, she honed her craft through sheer determination, on-the-job learning, and an unwavering belief in her abilities.

    She often speaks about the importance of self-belief and perseverance, urging aspiring creators to view criticism as constructive feedback and to embrace a mindset of continuous growth. What makes Yamini’s journey remarkable is her self-taught path. With no formal training, she honed her craft through sheer determination, on-the-job learning, and an unwavering belief in her abilities. She often speaks about the importance of self-belief and perseverance, urging aspiring creators to view criticism as constructive feedback and to embrace a mindset of continuous growth.

    As a filmmaker, Yamini is deeply committed to telling women-centered stories rooted in courage, transformation, and truth. Her debut feature showcased her ability to seamlessly navigate multiple creative roles with conviction and clarity. From concept and scripting to performance and production, her involvement in every facet of the project reflects her passion for meaningful, socially conscious cinema.

    Yamini Swami represents a new wave of creative professionals who challenge convention and amplify voices that need to be heard. With her growing portfolio and clear vision, she is poised to shape authentic narratives that inspire and resonate—making her one of the most compelling emerging storytellers in Indian film today.

    As a filmmaker, Yamini is deeply committed to telling women-centered stories rooted in courage, transformation, and truth. Her debut feature showcased her ability to seamlessly navigate multiple creative roles with conviction and clarity. From concept and scripting to performance and production, her involvement in every facet of the project reflects her passion for meaningful, socially conscious cinema.

    Yamini Swami represents a new wave of creative professionals who challenge convention and amplify voices that need to be heard. With her growing portfolio and clear vision, she is poised to shape authentic narratives that inspire and resonate—making her one of the most compelling emerging storytellers in Indian film today.