Kolkata: Marking International Women’s Day with a heartfelt tribute to women’s strength and contribution to society, Techno India Dama Hospital in collaboration with Woman Times organised a meaningful celebration titled “She Shines” in Kolkata. The evening was dedicated to honouring women whose perseverance, dignity and quiet determination continue to shape society in profound ways.
The programme brought together women from diverse walks of life — including achievers from entrepreneurship, healthcare, arts, social work and community leadership. Alongside celebrated professionals, the organisers consciously recognised women whose inspiring journeys often remain outside the public spotlight.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities from the cultural and academic spheres. Prof. Manashi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson of Techno India Group and Co-Chancellor of Techno India University, attended as the chief guest. Renowned actresses Shakuntala Barua, Chaiti Ghoshal and Debolina Dutta were present as special guests.
Among others who attended the event were Dr Bratati Bhattacharya, Academic Director (Management Studies), JIS Group; Shamima Khatoon, Advocate; Geeta Raghani, Financial Advisor; Dele Banerjee, Journalist; Writer, Director and Poet Paramitaa Munsi; Actress Indrani Ghosh; and Dancer Guru Sanchita Bhattacharya, all of whom joined in celebrating the spirit of empowered womanhood.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Manashi Roychowdhury said that International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of achievements but also a reminder of the resilience and compassion women bring to every sphere of life.
“Platforms like She Shines are important because they recognise not only well-known achievers but also the many unsung women whose determination quietly transforms families and communities. When we acknowledge their journeys, we inspire the next generation of young women to believe in their own potential and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
Mona Sarkar, CEO of Techno India Dama Hospital, emphasised the institution’s commitment to supporting women in every possible way.
“As an organisation, we have always tried to stand beside women and support their aspirations. Being a woman myself, I understand the many dimensions of their struggles and strength. Today we have also highlighted the courage of our women dialysis patients who endure immense hardship during their treatment. Their resilience reminds us that womanhood often carries unseen burdens, yet these women continue to face life with remarkable courage,” she said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Moonmoon Chakraborty, CEO of Woman Times, said the initiative aimed to create a platform where women from every walk of life could be recognised with equal dignity.
“We are not merely discussing gender; we are celebrating the idea of women standing for one another. Many of the women we honour today are not widely known, yet their indomitable resolve reminds us that adversity cannot silence the human will,” she said.
A special segment of the programme honoured “Unsung Sheroes” — women whose everyday labour and perseverance sustain families and communities. Among those recognised were women cab drivers, artisans from Kumartuli and several others whose lives stand as powerful testimonies of endurance and self-respect.
The event also acknowledged the courage of women dialysis patients, whose long and often difficult medical journeys involve immense physical, emotional and social challenges.
As part of the programme, a Special Women’s Health Session was organised to address key aspects of physical and mental well-being. The session featured expert insights from Dr Rajashree Roy Bandyopadhyay, Psychiatrist; Dr Amrita Choudhury, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist; and Dr Payel Kr Roy, Critical Care Nutritionist and Clinical Dietician. The experts shared guidance on mental health awareness, reproductive health and the importance of balanced nutrition in maintaining overall wellness.
The celebration concluded with felicitation ceremonies, interactive discussions and reflective moments that highlighted stories of resilience and hope. Through this initiative, the organisers aimed to nurture a culture that not only applauds achievement but also honours perseverance and compassion.
