‘Pragat Bharat Awards’ Highlight the Vision of a New India
Mumbai: Providing a powerful platform to the confluence of industry, governance, innovation, and social transformation, the Pragat Bharat Awards were held in an atmosphere marked by dignity, purpose, and national pride. Organized by Ek Nayi Disha and presented by Afternoon Voice, this distinguished ceremony honored nation builders whose contributions are shaping India’s progress and future direction.
Steeped in a strong sense of national spirit, the event brought together eminent personalities from governance, diplomacy, industry, social service, and innovation on one मंच. The chief guests included Uttarakhand’s Minister for Higher Education Shri Dhan Singh Rawat, former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, renowned actor Shri Shivaji Satam, Deputy Consul General of Sweden Mr. Joakim Gunnarsson, Deputy Consul of Mexico Ms. Adriana Villanueva Beceril, and Advocate Nihar Thakre (Founder & Managing Partner, Viss Legis Law Practice).
Receiving the Best Hotelier and Entrepreneur Award, Dr. Vithal Kamat, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of the Kamat Hotels Group, shared his journey and emphasized the importance of patience and resilience in business. He said, “Success does not mean the absence of challenges. During the COVID period, I suffered major losses, but I accepted them with humility and determination. True strength lies in dedication, commitment, and the courage to rise above every crisis.”
Addressing the gathering, Shri Dhan Singh Rawat noted that such honor-based platforms serve as a strong source of inspiration for youth and startups across the country.
Speaking on India’s growing global stature, former Chief Minister Shri Tirath Singh Rawat said that the Prime Minister’s vision of a trillion-dollar economy is steadily moving toward realization. He also specially appreciated Dr. Vaidehi Taman’s initiative to connect persons with disabilities to entrepreneurship, calling it a highly commendable effort.
Honored for social inclusion and inclusive leadership, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi remarked,
“Empowering the transgender community has been a long and challenging struggle. But when society recognizes your efforts, it provides renewed energy and motivation to move forward.”
Highlighting the role of law and ethics, Advocate Nihar Thakre stated, “Law is not merely about interpretation; it is a responsibility toward the Constitution, institutions, and society. In a rapidly transforming India, lawyers must strengthen the system with integrity and ethical values.”
Founder-Editor of Afternoon Voice and Presenter of the Pragat Bharat Awards, Dr. Vaidehi Taman, expressed her happiness over the widespread appreciation received by the event. She said,
“The objective of this platform is to bring together leadership from diverse fields and create meaningful opportunities for the future. The support and presence of all distinguished guests are a constant source of inspiration for us.”
On this occasion, several eminent personalities—including Shri Sanjay Bhide, Shri Sandeep Soparkar, Ms. Uttara Mone, Shri Dattatraya Ghadge, Shri Adhik Kadam, CA Uttam Agrawal, Dr. Santosh Pandey, Shri Ramdas Karvande, Dr. Gagan Raina, Dr. Reza Seyedan, Zenavinta Healthcare, Shri Sudhindra Rao S, CA Venkat Reddy, and Shri Abhijit Rane—were felicitated for their outstanding contributions.
The presence of international diplomats from Sweden and Mexico added a global dimension to the ceremony, powerfully reflecting India’s expanding international role through innovation, sustainable development, and collaborative partnerships.