Kamla Bhasin Awards Ceremony 2023

Celebrating Kamla Bhasin and the trailblazers embodying her spirit at the second award ceremony of Kamla Bhasin Awards for Driving Gender Equality Across South Asia

On November 2023, Azad, in collaboration with National Foundation for India (NFI) and iPartner India, honored Kamla Bhasin’s legacy at the second Kamla Bhasin Award Ceremony. The day commemorated Kamla’s life and legacy which has served as a guiding light for the women’s movement in India and South Asia. The award received 57 nominations from various countries, each representing a long and inspiring journey towards empowerment and gender justice. Rita Thapa, celebrated feminist educator and community activist graced the occasion with her inspiring words. The 4 winners were felicitated during the ceremony with virtual messages of support and admiration from Munizae Jahangir, Khushi Kabir and Radhika Coomaraswamy.

Breaking free from all restraints, the women come…

Jayasree, Winner in Category 1, felicitated by Binda Pandey, Award Jury Member

Jaysaree PK and Parina Limbu are women practitioners of non-traditional livelihoods, shattering gender stereotypes and empowering many women to transform their lives. Jayasree, a skilled mason currently working with Archana Women’s Centre, was awarded in Category 1. Parina, the founder of Dristi Nepal, the first organisation in Nepal led by women who use drugs, received the Special Jury Award in Category 1.

Men of quality are not afraid of equality!

Mahendra, Winner in Category 2, felicitated by Prof. Rama Baru, Board Member of NFI

Mahendra Kumar and Farhan Akhtar embody Kamla’s vision of a gender-equal world. Mahendra, the recipient of the award in Category 2, engages boys and men in challenging patriarchal norms and becoming allies for gender equality through his organisation MITRA. Farhan, recipient of the Special Jury Award in Category 2, initiated the Men Against Rape and Discrimination (MARD) campaign in 2013 to promote positive masculinity and challenge violence against women.

The vibrant event brought together over 300 participants from media, civil society, donor organizations, and Azad’s women drivers and young feminist leaders, culminating in a musical tribute by renowned singer Shubha Mudgal, leaving the audience inspired and hopeful for a more equitable world.

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