Aditi Maheshwari-Goyal
Publisher and Author
Aditi Maheshwari-Goyal is the CEO of the sixty years young Vani Prakashan Group.
Speakers 2023
"PILF 2023"
About Aditi Maheshwari-Goyal
Aditi Maheshwari-Goyal is the CEO of the sixty years young Vani Prakashan Group that represents the legacy literary list of Vani Prakashan, Bharatiya Jnanpith and Yatra Books. She is also the Managing Trustee at Vani Foundation, the not-for-profit arm of the group. Vani Foundation established the Vani Foundation Distinguished Translator Award at the Jaipur BookMark, Jaipur Literature Festival. The award is in its eighth year now and honors the translators who work towards bridging the gaps between Indian languages. Aditi drafted the syllabi of the course in Publishing and Editing at the University of Delhi's Cluster Innovation Center and taught it for three years. She teaches the same course at the Seagull School of Publishing, Kolkata. Aditi is one of the founding members of the Jaipur BookMark, South Asia's largest B2B publishing platform at Jaipur Literature Festival and has worked towards promotion of the Indian languages with several domestic and international forum. She is has publiahed over 500 books in a span of 12 years at the Vani Prakashan Group and has taken care of the entire block chain of book ecosystem. A post-graduate in English literature from Hansraj College, University of Delhi, she holds M.Phil. degree in Social Sciences from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, MSc. in Business Management from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, UK. She also holds a diploma in Public Relations and Advertising. She is pursuing a diploma in Artificial Intelligence right now from Indian Institute of Technology. Recently, Aditi has been featured in the internationally acclaimed business magazine, Business World among India's 'Most Valuable CEOs'. She has also been a guest editor for Rajasthan Patrika's national edition. Her interviews have been published at the India today, Financial Express, Mid-Day etc. She has written extensively for the Scroll and the Book Review.
Aditya Nighhot (Dr.)
Author
Is the national bestselling author of four romance books.
"PILF 2023"
About Aditya Nighhot (Dr.)
Hailing from Pune, Dr. Aditya R. Nighhot is the national bestselling author of four romance books. His books have not only received critical acclaim but have successfully managed to be in the top 50 bestreads and bestsellers on amazon for months together. Having sold over 50,000 copies of his books, Aditya’s work has been translated not only into Hindi and published but also into Sinhalese, German, French and many other International languages. His book Until Love Sets Us Apart is slated to release in Sinhalese in Sri Lanka. Apart from entertaining people with his bestselling books,, Aditya, is also a doctor (MD Radiologist), a screenwriter and an entrepreneur. With Dreamboat Publishing & Marketing, Aditya, is currently helping hundreds of other authors in fulfilling their dreams as authors.
Ajay Mankotia
Author
Ajay Mankotia is a former Commissioner of Income Tax , and Media company executive.
"PILF 2023"
About Ajay Mankotia
Ajay Mankotia is a former Commissioner of Income Tax , and Media company executive. Presently he runs his tax advisory . He is also Independent Director of Jindal Stainless Ltd and MPS Ltd. He has recently written his second book book " Bollywood Odyssey " The book is about music directors, singers and various aspects Hindi film music .These are essentially based on his personal knowledge—stemming from either his meetings with them, or through the association of his mother/uncle ( they were both in the field of music) with them, and his analysis of their music and their songs. It’s a 360-degree tour with a personal element thrown in. The book has received outstanding testimonials from the music world . The book is available on Amazon.
Ajit Menon
Author, Philanthrope, and a unique Nation builder
Ajit has contributed at CXO levels in over five Industries in the last three decades
"PILF 2023"
About Ajit Menon
Ajit Menon – Author, Philanthrope, and a unique Nation builder in his own right, has contributed at CXO levels in over five Industries in the last three decades. He worked in very senior leadership roles both in Operations and the functional departments before deciding that he had had enough of his cushy corporate job and decided to follow his passion – Storytelling. Today, as an author, Ajit Menon is rated in the ‘Top 12 inspiring writers of 2023’. A Philanthrope, Ajit & his family run an NGO called Anugraha Foundation, which funds homes for abandoned and destitute senior citizens.
Ajit Vaman Apte (Dr.)
Historian, Orator, and Author
Dr. Ajit Vaman Apte is an historian.
"PILF 2023"
About Ajit Vaman Apte (Dr.)
Dr. Ajit Vaman Apte is a history enthusiast and has done Ph.D. on the management style of Chhatrapati screen Shivaji Maharaj. He has written 3 books on the same in Marathi. He has delivered more than 400 lectures and conducted more than 300 heritage walks in Pune and surrounding areas. He has been taking part in historical mega drama Jaanata Raja since 1985 and has played the character of Aurangazeb!
Alka Pande (Dr)
Art Historian
Dr Pande is a consultant art advisor and curator of the Visual Arts Gallery at the India Habitat Ce…
"PILF 2023"
About Alka Pande (Dr)
Dr Alka Pande is an art historian who taught Art History at Panjab University for more than two decades. She has also taught Art and Aesthetics at the Delhi College of Art, NID and the DJ Academy of Design, Coimbatore. Her major fields of interest are gender identity and sexuality, and traditional arts. Dr Pande, under the aegis of the Charles Wallace India Trust, conducted postdoctoral research in critical art theory at Goldsmiths, University of London. Dr Pande is responsible for setting-up museums: Bihar Museum, Divine Gesture, Udaipur City Palace, Kanha Museum, Singinawa. She is on the advisory of the Bihar Museum. Dr Pande also set up the Bihar Museum Biennale in 2021 and is now the chief curator for the Bihar Museum Biennale 2. Currently, Dr Pande is a consultant art advisor and curator of the Visual Arts Gallery at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi (India).
Amit Paranjape
Tech Entrepreneur
Is a tech entrepreneur based in Pune. He writes regularly in blogs, media.
"PILF 2023"
About Amit Paranjape
Amit is a tech entrepreneur based in Pune. He has a wide variety of interests in software, science & technology, innovation, history, geo-politics and public policy. He writes regularly in blogs, media and is very active on twitter (at @aparanjape). Amit is an alumnus of IIT Bombay and University of Wisconsin.
Amod K. Kanth
Redt IPS Officer
Amod K. Kanth is a highly decorated IPS officer who has received awards for gallantry and for merit…
"PILF 2023"
About Amod K. Kanth
Amod K. Kanth is a highly decorated IPS officer who has received awards for gallantry and for meritorious and distinguished services. He has been recognised as an ‘outstanding social worker’ and a ‘global hero’ by the US government for combating human trafficking. As the founder and secretary of Prayas JAC Society, he is deeply committed to the rights, welfare and rehabilitation of exploited children and deprived communities across the country.
Amrit Nagpal
Storyteller
She is an Early Years Education expert, a curriculum architect, a parent coach, an educator mentor …
"PILF 2023"
About Amrit Nagpal
‘No matter what you do; always work hard and give your best.’ Amrit takes this advice from her father to heart, as this motivates all her actions. She is a graduate in Human Development from S.N.D.T. University, and a Masters in Education (M.Ed) from James Cook University. She is an Early Years Education expert, a curriculum architect, a parent coach, an educator mentor and a certified storyteller. Recently, she has made significant contributions as a contributor to the book, Early Childhood Development - Universal Perspectives by Global Experts, published by Vitasta Publication. She believes that learning never ends.
Amrita Prasad
Journalist
She has worked across platforms and in publications like Life 365, Sakal Times, and The Times of In…
"PILF 2023"
About Amrita Prasad
Amrita Prasad is a young independent journalist, who has a career spanning over 9 years. She has worked across platforms and in publications like Life 365, Sakal Times, and The Times of India and Pune Times Mirror. With a passion for storytelling and an eye for news, Amrita wants to be the voice for the voiceless. While writing remains her first love, she loves documenting people's stories and her own experiences through pictures and videos.
Arul Danam Horizon
Photo Journalist
Arul Horizon is a photo journalist with the Indian Express..
"PILF 2023"
About Arul Danam Horizon
Arul Danam Horizon (Arul Horizon), started photography during school days and worked in hospitality industry in India and abroad before getting in to serious photojournalism career with the Indian Express 25 years ago. During this journey he was assigned to cover a number of Social, political, cultural, sports and Natural calamities etc. and had an extended coverage on Pandemic.
Arunava Sinha
Translator
Translates Bengali fiction, non-fiction, and poetry from Bangladesh and India into English.
"PILF 2023"
About Arunava Sinha
Arunava Sinha translates Bengali fiction, non-fiction, and poetry from Bangladesh and India into English. He also translates fiction from English into Bengali. Over 80 of his translations have been published so far in India, the UK and the USA. He teaches at Ashoka University, where he is also the co-director of the Ashoka Centre for Translation.
Ashdin Doctor
The Habit Coach™
Ashdin is The Habit Coach™. He firmly believes that an awesome life starts with awesome habits
"PILF 2023"
About Ashdin Doctor
He hosts The Habit Coach™ Podcast on IVM, which is a daily podcast that has over a thousand episodes. It is ranked among the top self-development podcasts in India. It covers a wide variety of topics all designed to help the listener evolve through their daily habits. He works with people from all across the world, helping them with their habits, spreading his message through keynote speeches, workshops and group coaching sessions. Apart from that, he is a director at Ormax Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Ormax Media Pvt. Ltd. and Ormax Evolve Pvt. Ltd. He is also a trustee at the Light of Life Trust, an NGO dedicated to underprivileged children around the world. Ashdin will be donating a percentage of the proceeds from this book to the NGO to promote literacy.
Aslam Rahaman,
Author
A seasoned banker seamlessly intertwines his financial acumen with a fervent passion for storytelli…
"PILF 2023"
About Aslam Rahaman,
Aslam Rahaman, a seasoned banker seamlessly intertwines his financial acumen with a fervent passion for storytelling. An alumnus of IIM Calcutta, University of Lucknow, Mahatma Jyotibaphule Rohilkhand University and City Montessori School of Lucknow, Aslam's literary journey mirrors the dynamic lives of young urban Indians. His debut novel, "The Fortune Hunters," emerged as a national bestseller, captivating both readers and critics alike. The success continued with his second novel, "Friendship Bites," achieving national bestseller status within months of release, earning praise from readers and reviewers. Aslam's unique blend of banking expertise and narrative prowess cements his place as a notable author in contemporary Indian literature.
Bharat Bhushan
Birder, Biologist, Teacher, Trainer
Birder, Biologist, Teacher, Trainer. Adjunct Professor, Hindu Studies and Indian Knowledge Systems …
"PILF 2023"
About Bharat Bhushan
Bharat Bhushan Birder, Biologist, Teacher, Trainer. Adjunct Professor, Hindu Studies and Indian Knowledge Systems at the University of Mumbai. Masters and PhD in Ornithology and an eclectic interest in ancient knowledge systems and sciences of India, has authored Katha Panduranga, Birds of Ramayana and the Kailasa Kora: Mysteries of the Ancients, published by Vishwakarma. Keen student of natural history and the puranas, with essays on the Sri Rama Raksha Stotra and the Ashta-dikhapala, i.e. the guardians of the eight directions.
Christopher Kloeble
Author
Christopher Kloeble is an award-winning scriptwriter and the author of three novels, a short story …
"PILF 2023"
About Christopher Kloeble
Christopher Kloeble is an award-winning scriptwriter and the author of three novels, a short story collection and a memoir. He has taught at Dartmouth College, Cambridge University and Hong Kong University, among others. His books have been translated into nine languages. He lives in Berlin and New Delhi. The English translation of his latest novel, ‘The Museum of the World,’ which will be adapted for the stage in Colombo next year, was recently published with HarperCollins India.
Devyani Mungali
Educator
Is an educator. She founded the Sanskriti Group of Schools, and is an excellent storyteller and cre…
"PILF 2023"
About Devyani Mungali
Devyani Mungali is an educator for more than 30 years, she founded the Sanskriti Group of Schools, Pune, towards providing children with a personalized holistic education model. A gold medalist and university topper in BA and MA in English Literature, she has been writing stories and poems in Hindi and English, for children. Her long tryst with literature and creativity, makes her an excellent storyteller and creative writer. She is the receiver of several awards for her path-breaking initiatives in education. She spends a lot of her time and efforts towards philanthropic causes for the education of underprivileged girl children.
Dipankar Mukherjee
Publisher
Is the publisher and director of Readomania Publishing, the house has produced over 120 books in ju…
"PILF 2023"
About Dipankar Mukherjee
Dipankar Mukherjee is the publisher and director of Readomania Publishing, an independent publishing house based in Delhi. Under his leadership, the house has produced over 120 books in just about 6 years, with some critically acclaimed and award-winning titles as well. He teaches creative writing at many institutes and runs the popular Young Author Program. He is an engineer from Nagpur University, holds an MBA degree from IIT Madras, and has been in the corporate world for 9 years, before becoming an entrepreneur. He also manages business interests in hospitality and manufacturing.
Gajra Kottary
short story writer, novelist, television script writer
Gajra's collection of women centred short stories titled Autumn Blossoms released on November 2nd 2…
"PILF 2023"
About Gajra Kottary
Gajra Kottary is a short story writer, novelist and multiple award-winning television script writer who has written some of the longest-running, and memorable, serials on Indian television, Balika Vadhu, Astitva, Na Umr Ki Seema Ho, among many others. Gajra's collection of women centred short stories titled Autumn Blossoms released on November 2nd 2023 in Mumbai.
Ganesh Natarajan (Dr)
Executive Chairman and Founder of 5F World
He is Executive Chairman and Founder of 5F World, Co-Founder of Lighthouse Communities Foundation, …
"PILF 2023"
About Ganesh Natarajan (Dr)
Dr. Ganesh Natarajan is Executive Chairman and Founder of 5F World, a platform for Digital Start-ups, Skills and Social Ventures in the country. He is also Co-Founder of Lighthouse Communities Foundation, Global Talent Track and Skills Alpha. Ganesh’s corporate career includes twenty-five years leading public listed companies, APTECH and Zensar Technologies. He grew Zensar’s over fifteen times and made it a leader in providing digital transformation solutions for manufacturing, retail and financial services firms. Ganesh is Chairman of the Board of Honeywell Automation India Limited and Lighthouse Communities. He also serves on the Boards of Hinduja Global Solutions, SBI Payments Ltd, Systech Inc USA, Educate Girls and the Asian Venture Philanthropy Network, SingaporeDr. Ganesh Natarajan has been Chairman of Industry association NASSCOM and NASSCOM Foundation
Gauranga Darshan Das
Spiritual Educator
Gauranga Darshan Das serves as the Dean of Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha, a school of spiritual studies …
"PILF 2023"
About Gauranga Darshan Das
Gauranga Darshan Das, an esteemed educator, holds a Master's degree from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. He has lectured over 7500 hours, and penned more than 30 books, including study guides, storybooks, self-enrichment works, and children's literature. He serves as the Dean of Bhaktivedanta Vidyapitha, a school of spiritual studies at ISKCON Govardhan Ecovillage. He travels to US, Australia and other countries across the globe, and conducts spiritual education programs for children and adults, both onsite and online.
Gopinath Chandra Das
Life coach and Motivational speaker
He helps people improve the quality of their lives with teachings from the Bhagavad Gita.
"PILF 2023"
About Gopinath Chandra Das
Gopinath Chandra Das did his B.Tech and M.Tech from IITB. In 2004, he joined ISKCON as a full-time monk. A life coach and motivational speaker, he helps people improve the quality of their lives with teachings from the Bhagavad Gita. With his background in science and technology, he presents the Gita in a scientific light.
Harshil Shah
Expert in Books and Marketing
Vision: To spread Literature and Yoga to the common man
"PILF 2023"
About Harshil Shah
I enjoy being around books and authors and as it is said outside of a dog, books are a man's best friend. - It allows you to live many lives in one and that's what it taught me in my last stint with the Crossword Bookstores for 13 long years. - Apart was part of the several IP's like prestigious Crossword Book Awards, I Want To Be An Author, Make Your Own Bookmark etc. - Creativity and Innovation is the key to success with persistence which have applied in the daily work to make it more interesting and enjoyable. Vision: To spread Literature and Yoga to the common man
Hema Gehani
Educator
Mrs Hema Gehani is the Founder of Colours preschool and Innovation Academy.
"PILF 2023"
About Hema Gehani
Mrs Hema Gehani is the Founder of Colours preschool and Innovation Academy. She is an electrical engineer, IT professional and ISB alumni. Teaching to her younger child by Glenn Doman's methods she understood that children love information more than toys when shared in jouyos ways. She first thought of opening an NGO and finally landed in Preschool. She loves to be around the children and enjoys more when she is surrounded by them. She has worked with Doorsteps NGO for two years and trained many teachers and helped in setting up the preschool syllabus. She believes that when children work for NGOs they not only become responsible citizens but also values their lives more and she is trying to promote that in her current schools as well.
Jennifer Dunn
Network Development Specialist, Salzburg Global Seminar
Her primary role is to support the development and implementation of programs and networks
"PILF 2023"
About Jennifer Dunn
Jennifer Dunn is the network development specialist at Salzburg Global Seminar. Her primary role is to support the development and implementation of programs and networks, including those related to the built environment, tech for social good, and peace. Previously, she held the roles of program development manager, associate, and assistant at Salzburg Global Seminar. Jennifer is also co-chair of the World Urban Parks Alliance Committee. Prior to joining the organization in 2017, Jennifer worked as a project manager for the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation. Before this, she was an English language teacher in multiple schools in Graz, and with Berlitz English in Vienna. In 2013, she worked as a research intern for the Scottish nonprofit, Smart Play Network. Jennifer holds an M.A. (Hons) in geography from the University of St Andrews, UK, a master's degree in European studies from the University of Vienna, Austria, and is currently pursuing an M.Sc. in spatial planning and sustainable urban design at the University of Dundee, UK.
Jyoti Jha (Dr.)
Author
Dr. Jyoti Jha is an HR-turned-Author, Columnist, and Storyteller.
"PILF 2023"
About Jyoti Jha (Dr.)
Dr. Jyoti Jha is an HR-turned-Author, Columnist, and Storyteller. From corporate corridors at Infosys and Whirlpool to winning 'The Times of India Write India Season 3,' her journey is a tapestry of words. TEDx Speaker, Speaker at premier events like 'Times LitFest', and prestigious institutes like IITs and IIMs, she's a proud winner of several literary awards. She has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate (Vidya Vachaspati) from Vikramsheela Hindi Vidyapeeth. Known for her book ‘Aanandi’, she contributes to both Hindi and English literature.
Kainaz Jussawalla
Author
Kainaz Jussawalla is the award winning author of the book ‘Coffee Days Champagne Nights.’
"PILF 2023"
About Kainaz Jussawalla
Kainaz Jussawalla is the award winning author of the book ‘Coffee Days Champagne Nights.’ She has written for various publications including Magna, Times of India and Debonair and is a former international flight attendant. Kainaz has recently published her second novel, a fun and witty memoir, ‘Who Wants to Marry Kai Juicewalla?’ which by her admission traces her journey of self love after kissing several frogs disguised as princes. A reiki master and a mental health advocate for body positivity, Kainaz is also the founder of the popular brand ‘Chai with Kai’ on you tube and Instagram and also the person behind the initiative ‘Be A Friend’, that supports and engages with neglected senior citizens . Kainaz is represented by The Book Bakers literary agency and published by Om Books International.
Kalyani Sardesai
Journalist, Writer
Kalyani Sardesai is a Pune-based journalist and writer.
"PILF 2023"
About Kalyani Sardesai
Kalyani Sardesai is a Pune-based journalist and writer. Apart from Punyakatha, her other works include Child of My Heart, the first of its kind, comprehensive book on adoption and child rights in the Indian context, the children’s book cum satire: Dog Knows: Golden Words of Canine Wisdom and the recently released Mom-made with Love: Recipes on Life, Business and Enterprise.
Kiran Ahuja (Dr)
Vegan Foods Expert
Dr Kiran Ahuja is a Vegan Foods Expert at PETA India and a certified nutritionist.
"PILF 2023"
About Kiran Ahuja (Dr)
Dr Kiran Ahuja is a Vegan Foods Expert at PETA India and a certified nutritionist.
Kulpreet Yadav
Author, Actor, Screenwriter and Filmmaker
Kulpreet has authored several books in diverse genres, including espionage, true crime and military…
"PILF 2023"
About Kulpreet Yadav
A product of the Naval Officers' Academy, Kulpreet Yadav has spent two decades as an officer in uniform and has successfully commanded three ships in his career. Since his retirement as Commandant from the Indian Coast Guard in 2014, he has authored several books in diverse genres, including espionage, true crime and military history. Winner of the Best Fiction Author Award for Murder in Paharganj, an espionage novel, at the Gurgaon Literary Festival in 2018, Kulpreet is also an actor, screenwriter and filmmaker. He lives in Mumbai, and his latest book is Brahmaputra (Harper Collins, 2023), which he has co-authored with Vijayendra Prasad, writer of blockbuster films like Bahubaali, RRR, Bajrangi Bhaijaan etc. Kulpreet is also the author of the highly successful book, “The Battle of Rezang La” (Penguin, 2021), based on the 1962 war with China & set in Ladakh.
Manisha Melwani
Teacher, Writer and Speaker
Author of Your Spiritual Journey–A guide to unfolding your divine self.
"PILF 2023"
About Manisha Melwani
Manisha Melwani is the author of Your Spiritual Journey–A guide to unfolding your divine self. She is a teacher and speaker who loves sharing her knowledge of Vedanta with seekers looking for clarity and guidance in their lives. She conducts classes and workshops on various Vedantic topics, meditation and stress management.
Manjiri Khandekar
Educationist, Publisher
Manjiri Khandekar is a city-based educationist, publisher and founder of Heritage India
"PILF 2023"
About Manjiri Khandekar
Manjiri Khandekar is a city-based educationist, publisher and founder of Heritage India—an organisation dedicated to the promotion of Indian history, culture, and heritage sites. To that end, Heritage India has published award-winning magazines called Heritage India and Maharashtra Unlimited that have brought out well-researched essays and stories of assorted cultural legacies for culture and history buffs. Apart from organising group heritage tours for both Indian and international tourists, Heritage India brings out coffee table books dedicated to ancient and modern traditions, long-standing legacies, festivals, architecture, and geographical systems. The best-selling coffee table Punyakatha which charts the history of Pune and the Deccan Plateau for over a million years is an endeavour that was four years in the making and represents all that Heritage India stands for is an attempt to educate children on our history .
Manjiri Prabhu (Dr.)
Author, Curator & Founder/Director of two international festivals.
Dr. Manjiri Prabhu is an award-winning international author and the Curator & Founder/Director of t…
"PILF 2023"
About Manjiri Prabhu (Dr.)
Dr. Manjiri Prabhu holds a Doctorate in Communication Science and is a short-film-maker, an award-winning international author and the Curator & Founder/Director of two international festivals Pune International Literary Festival and International Festival of Spiritual India (for Humanity & Wisdom). She has directed over 200 children’s TV programmes, more than 50 short fiction and travel films and has authored 20 books. The first female mystery Author to be published outside India, Prabhu has been acknowledged as a pioneer in India among women writers of mystery fiction, and has completed 52 years in the world of writing. Labelled as the ‘Indian Agatha Christie’, Prabhu is a master storyteller and her novels are unique masterpieces with ingenious plots, memorable characters and evocative language. Prabhu has taken Indian mystery fiction to a global market and set a high bar. Her book ‘The Rampur Raza Mystery’ (A Sassy Library Thriller) was recently launched by the Hon. President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu. Dr. Shashi Tharoor gives Prabhu credit for ‘Exoticizing the occident through intrepid, compelling storytelling” and says that Dan Brown has found his match. Prabhu has been invited to reputed International Literature Festivals like Jaipur Literature Festival, Bouchercon USA, Cheltenham Litfest UK, the International Agatha Christie Festival, UK and International Women Fiction Writers, Matera, Italy among many others. Her novels 'The Cosmic Clues' was selected as a Killer Book, by Independent Mystery Booksellers of America and 'The Astral Alibi' was honoured as a 'Notable Book' in the Kiriyama Prize. As the Founder/ Director of Pune International Literary Festival, Prabhu has brought Pune city on the International map of Literature and Arts festivals. She believes that literature heals and is a prerequisite to a peaceful society. The International Festival of Spiritual India (For Humanity and Wisdom) is a unique, free festival which aims to help people find a direction in life by supplying them with tools, guidance and a purpose. She has been awarded - A GLOBAL WOMAN LEADER by the 10TH WORLD WOMEN LEADERSHIP CONGRESS AWARDS 2023 'Excellence in Service for Humanity' from the Rotary Club of Pune, Kalyani Nagar, (2022) 'Inspirational Women of Maharashtra -Excellence in the field of Writing’ (2017) and ‘Most Admired Leader of Maharashtra' by ERTC Global Herald (2017). Also awarded the Rex Karmaveer Gold Medal Award (2016) instituted by iCONGO and the UN. She is also an animal welfare activist promoting caring and adoption of stray dogs for more than 35 years.
Manju Jaidka
Professor of English and Creative Writer
Jaidka has published more than 25 books in her entire career including two collections of poems, a …
"PILF 2023"
About Manju Jaidka
Manju Jaidka, a Professor of English and creative writer, Jaidka has published more than 25 books in her entire career including two collections of poems, a play, four novels, and a short story collection. Her recent, ground-breaking Encyclopedia of Indian Writing in English was published recently by Routledge. She is now compiling an Encyclopedia of Diasporic Indian English Writing for Springer.
Minal Kavishwar
Animal Therapist
Is the Founder of Animal Angels Foundation, India’s first and only NGO working in the field of Huma…
"PILF 2023"
About Minal Kavishwar
Mrs. Minal Kavishwar is a trained human Clinical Psychologist, from SNDT University, Mumbai, Minal is specialised as an Animal Assisted Therapist. Minal is the first person to introduce the internationally-recognized professional discipline of Animal Assisted Therapy (“AAT”) in India. Apart from being the only one in India to imparts intensive training to volunteers and professional therapists (both humans and animals), she also provides consultation to set up AAT centers in India and abroad. Minal is also the Founder of Animal Angels Foundation, India’s first and only NGO working in the field of Human Animal Interaction and Director at Animal Angels Therapy Center, her consultancy set up. Her aim has always been community involvement and bringing together humans, animals and nature. Through her foundation, she has developed a sense of compassion and service among pet owners. Through her campaign ‘Share the joy of having a pet with someone in need, she has made the community aware of pets as trained ‘working dogs’ or ‘dogs with jobs’. Other initiatives by her involve community awareness projects for ‘responsible and pet friendly scoiety’, which includes pets and strays.
Mona Verma
Award-winning Author
Mona Verma is an award-winning author of 9 books and over a dozen anthologies which have been the s…
"PILF 2023"
About Mona Verma
Mona Verma is an award-winning author of 9 books and over a dozen anthologies which have been the subject of the thesis for many Research Scholars and ICSE ELT series. Recipient of the Rex Karamveer Award by icongo and United Nations ,she has been listed in the 50 Iconic Authors 2022 Category by Aesthetics International. India Today March 2023 edition has listed her amongst the Top 8 emerging Indian women. In October 2023, her name and writings have found an impressive mention in the prestigious British Routledge Encyclopaedias of Indian Writing in English.
Mugdha Gadgil-Barve(Dr.)
Sanskrit Professor
Associate Professor in the Dept of Sanskrit and Prakrit, S. P. Pune University, Pune.
"PILF 2023"
About Mugdha Gadgil-Barve(Dr.)
Associate Professor in the Dept of Sanskrit and Prakrit, S. P. Pune University, Pune. Experience in studying, researching and teaching Vedic literature and Sanskrit Scientific literature - 25 years. Authored or edited books - 7 Published Research papers - 35
Mugdha Sinha
I.A.S
Ms. Mugdha Sinha is an I.A.S officer. She is Poet and has written many poems.
"PILF 2023"
About Mugdha Sinha
Ms. Mugdha Sinha is an I.A.S . She was selected in I.A.S in 1999- All India 8TH rank. As an IAS officer she has served on various positions.: as Secretary Science & Technology, Secretary Art, Literature, Culture, Archaeology and Director General Jawahar Kala Kendra (JKK), Secretary Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Commissioner Delhi-Mumbai Corridor (DMIC) and Managing Director (MD) RIICO , Director Commerce-Foreign Trade Americas (NAFTA & LAC), EP-Textiles and UNESCAP and much more. Mugdha is Poet and has written many poems.
Neelesh Kulkarni
Author
An author a versatile professional, entrepreneur, poet, actor, voiceover artist, and cricket comme…
"PILF 2023"
About Neelesh Kulkarni
Neelesh Kulkarni, a versatile professional, is a management graduate, entrepreneur, poet, actor, voiceover artist, and cricket commentator. An author with Harper Collins and Westland books, his debut, 'In the Footsteps of Rama,' is in its second edition and adapted into a web series. Currently working on two upcoming books, he resides in Delhi with his artist wife.
Neeraj Bali, (Maj Gen (RETD))
Author
Maj Gen Neeraj Bali, Sena Medal (RETD), is an Indian Army veteran and is a corporate professional.
"PILF 2023"
About Neeraj Bali, (Maj Gen (RETD))
Maj Gen Neeraj Bali, Sena Medal, is an Indian Army veteran and a corporate professional. He is also an organizational culture transformation consultant who has assisted several companies in improving several aspects of their culture. He is also a certified Life and Leadership Coach and professional speaker. During his service, he served in J&K for ten years and on all the borders multiple times. He commanded a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion in J&K at the height of terrorism and was awarded the Sena Medal. Later, he served in the Headquarters in Srinagar in a role for coordination of anti-militancy operations and evolving counter-insurgency strategy. Currently, he is a management advisor to a leading cable manufacturing company. He is a teaching faculty of the Institute for Competitive Intelligence, Germany, for its international workshops. He is an Executive Fellow at Woxsen University, Hyderabad, and an advisor to the digital education platform Notebook. He has delivered talks on organizational culture, leadership and competitive intelligence on several prestigious forums.
Oshwin Kadhao
Journalist, Videographer and Visual Storyteller.
He is an experienced news & lifestyle photographer with 6+ years of experience and has worked in va…
"PILF 2023"
About Oshwin Kadhao
Oshwin Kadhao is a 23-year -old photojournalist, videographer and visual storyteller. He is an experienced news & lifestyle photographer with 6+ years of experience, and has worked in various industries including print newspaper, online news portals, fashion, product photography etc. He has worked with some of the leading media houses such as Sakal Media Group, The Indian Express and is currently working with Pune Times Mirror. He is also abreast with the latest demands in video content creation and editing them for suitable news platforms including publications’ social media handles and website. He has a special knack for wildlife, extreme sports and travel photography.
Piyush Jha
Director, Screenwriter and Author
Piyush Jha is a film director, series creator, screenwriter, the author of bestselling crime-fictio…
"PILF 2023"
About Piyush Jha
Piyush Jha is a film director, series creator, screenwriter, the author of bestselling crime-fiction novels. He is the Co-founder of Talkietive Content Creators Pvt. Ltd. where he is creating and developing a slate of adaptations and original OTT series. His next feature film as a Co-Producer/Writer, an adaptation from his last book, is slated to release early next year.
Pooja Upganlawar
Speech and Drama Trainer, storyteller, and writer
Founder of ‘The StoryTunes’ is a Speech and Drama Trainer, passionate storyteller, and writer
"PILF 2023"
About Pooja Upganlawar
Pooja Upganlawar, Founder of ‘The StoryTunes’ is a Speech and Drama Trainer, passionate storyteller, and writer. With TESOL certification, she excels as an English language trainer. With over 8 years of teaching Speech and Drama, and a background in corporate roles with giants like Hewlett Packard and Vodafone, Pooja brings in diverse expertise and perspective. She has successfully prepared students for Trinity College London exams and introduced children to the world of stories through her storytelling performances. Her online platform reaches children nationwide, and her ‘Teacher Skill Enhancement Program’ benefits educators. She has held storytelling sessions internationally and is working on reaching out to children abroad with her stories from Indian Mythology. She has authored ‘The Boom Boom Family’ which is being used by many schools to teach the Solar System. She strongly believes in the power of storytelling and how stories shape an individual.
Poorva Joshipura
PETA India Director, Animal Rights Activist
Poorva Joshipura is a PETA India Director, a distinguished animal rights activist
"PILF 2023"
About Poorva Joshipura
Poorva Joshipura is a PETA India Director, a distinguished animal rights activist with over 25 years of global experience, and author of two books. Her latest book, ‘Survival at Stake’ delves into the connection between how we treat animals and current environmental and human health and wellbeing crises.
Pranay
Author of 17 books on mysticism and spirituality
Pranay is the bestselling author of 17 books on mysticism and spirituality, including the renowned …
"PILF 2023"
About Pranay
Pranay is the bestselling author of 17 books on mysticism and spirituality, including the renowned series "Spirituality for Leadership & Success" (Fingerprint!). As a speaker, Pranay's acclaimed 'PowerTalks' have been held for various audiences (including the Indian Navy), and at venues such as Antilia. He is currently writing 26 new books.
Priyanka Sinha Jha
Author, Journalist
Priyanka Sinha Jha is an Author, Journalist & Co-Founder of Talkietive
"PILF 2023"
About Priyanka Sinha Jha
Priyanka Sinha Jha is an Author, Journalist & Co-Founder of Talkietive Content Creators-a content development company. Prior to her entrepreneurial stint, Priyanka has been the Head of Bollywood & celebrity-based content in leading media companies such as 9X Media, Network18 and Hotstar. She was also the Editor of Screen (Indian Express), HT Cafe (Hindustan Times) & Society Magazine and the Curator for the Star Screen Awards for 12 years. Priyanka's new book, Folk Tales From Bollywood, published earlier this year is a collection of quirky fictional Bollywood-based short stories. Her first book Supertraits of Superstars, is a motivational self-help book inspired by film celebrities. b) High-res image is attachment C) Priyanka Sinha Jha- Social Media handles:
Raghunath Mashelkar (Dr), FRS
Thought leader in Science & Technology at a global level
Dr. Mashelkar is known for his contributions in polymer science, and his leadership in transforming…
"PILF 2023"
About Raghunath Mashelkar (Dr), FRS
Dr. Raghunath Anant Mashelkar is known for his many pioneering contributions in polymer science, or his leadership in transforming major science and innovation institutions and for his thought leadership at a global level in creating balanced IPR systems as well as inclusive innovation ecosystems especially with the avowed objective of making high technology work for the poor. Top Honours The President of India honored Dr. Mashelkar with three of the highest civilian awards, namely Padmashri (1991), Padmabhushan (2000) and Padma Vibhushan (2014). He has received a record of 48 honorary doctorates from universities around the world, from London to Pretoria to Wisconsin to Monash to Delhi.
Rajeev Bhargava
Author and Professor
Rajeev Bhargava is the Director of Parekh Institute of Indian Thought.
"PILF 2023"
About Rajeev Bhargava
Rajeev Bhargava, educated in Delhi and Oxford, is currently an Honorary Fellow at the Centre of the Study of Developing Societies, Delhi and Director of its Parekh Institute of Indian Thought. He was also the Centre's Director (2007-2014). He has been a Professor at the University of Delhi and Jawahar Lal University and has lectured, taught and held visiting professorships at several international universities, including Oxford, Harvard, Columbia, Berlin and Paris. Bhargava's work on Individualism and Secularism is internationally acclaimed. His publications include Individualism in Social Science (1992), What is Political Theory and Why Do We Need It? (2010), and The Promise of India’s Secular Democracy (2010). His edited works include Secularism and Its Critics (1998) and Politics and Ethics of the Indian Constitution (2008), and Politics, Ethics and the Self: Re-reading Hind Swaraj. (2022).
Rashmi Uchil
Author
She has since then been writing for various publications and portals. Raising Stars is her first bo…
"PILF 2023"
About Rashmi Uchil
Rashmi Uchil began her career as a film journalist at Magna Publications. She has since then been writing for various publications and portals, including TOI, Darmilla publications, and Rediff.com, to name a few. Apart from writing, her first love, she has made an alternate career in corporate training and content development for the last 20 years. Raising Stars is her first book.
Renu Agrawal
Educationalist
Renu Agrawal is a researcher at heart, who transitioned to school teaching to adapt to the Army lif…
"PILF 2023"
About Renu Agrawal
Renu Agrawal is a researcher at heart, who transitioned to school teaching to adapt to the Army lifestyle. Holding an MPhil in Microbiology, she brings over two decades of educational expertise, with books being a central part of her journeys. Nurturing a household love for reading, she embodies the harmonious blend of academia and family.
Rishi Piparaiya
Author
He is master in wealth management. And is a bestselling author, world traveller, and angel investor.
"PILF 2023"
About Rishi Piparaiya
Rishi Piparaiya has held senior leadership positions in wealth management, strategy, sales, and marketing with leading global financial services organisations. He achieved financial freedom by age 40 and left his corporate job to pursue his passions. He is now a bestselling author, world traveller, and angel investor.
Rohan Kirit Panwala
Criminal Advocate
Criminal Advocate | Co-Author of "Theory of Suspicion" | Urdu Poet | Amateur Filmmaker and Screenwr…
"PILF 2023"
About Rohan Kirit Panwala
Rohan Kirit Panwala Criminal Advocate | Co-Author of "Theory of Suspicion" | Urdu Poet | Amateur Filmmaker and Screenwriter With nearly two decades of legal expertise, Rohan Kirit Panwala is a dedicated advocate navigating the complexities of the legal system. Beyond his legal career, he's a versatile creative force. Co-authoring the English legal murder mystery "Theory of Suspicion," Rohan adds a thrilling chapter to his literary journey. Alongside his legal work, he is a soulful Urdu poet having the pen-name ‘KHAMOSH’ and an emerging filmmaker and screenwriter. Having also co-directed two short films, one selected at the Kolkata International Film Festival, Rohan embodies a unique blend of legal insight, poetic expression, and cinematic storytelling.
Roshmila Bhattacharya
Indian journalist, author and editor
In a career spanning over three decades, has worked with four leading publishing houses
"PILF 2023"
About Roshmila Bhattacharya
Roshmila Bhattacharya, in a career spanning over three decades, has worked with four leading publishing houses—The Times of India, Asian Age Hindustan Times and Indian Express—besides contributing to The Telegraph, National Herald, Deccan Herald, Free Press Journal and Rediff.Com. In July 2018, Penguin released Bad Man, the memoir of Gulshan Grover. In December 2020, Rupa Books published Matinee Men: A Journey Through Bollywood, Om Books has just launched her third book, Spooked!, 36 true stories of Bollywood’s paranormal encounters. Last year, Tere Chhalaava, a crime anthology for which she has written four stories, aired on Hungama Play and MX Player.
Salil Desai
Author
Salil Desai is the author of the much-acclaimed Inspector Saralkar Mystery Series.
"PILF 2023"
About Salil Desai
Salil Desai is the author of the much-acclaimed Inspector Saralkar Mystery Series, that includes - The Kid Killer (2023), Murder Milestone (2020), 3 and a Half Murders (2017), The Murder of Sonia Raikkonen (2015) and Killing Ashish Karve (2014). The books are currently being adapted into a web series by Jio Studios. Titled 'Kalsutra', the first season is based on 'Murder Milestone'. Salil is also the lead writer of the screenplay of 'Kalsutra'. His other popular books are Murder on a Side Street (2011), Lost Libido and Other Gulp Fiction (2012), as well as The Sane Psychopath (2018).
Sanjeev Sanyal
Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister
Sanjeev Sanyal is EAC-PM. He was the Principal Economic Adviser to the Finance Minister for five ye…
"PILF 2023"
About Sanjeev Sanyal
Sanjeev Sanyal is currently a Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM). He was the Principal Economic Adviser to the Finance Minister for five years till February 2022 and the Co-Chair of the G20’s Framework Working Group. Prior to joining the government, he spent over two decades in financial markets and was Global Strategist and Managing Director at Deutsche Bank. An alumni of Shri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi, Mr. Sanyal later attended Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. He was awarded the Eisenhower Fellowship in 2007 for his work on urban dynamics. In 2010 he was named as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in Davos. Mr. Sanyal is the author of a number of best-selling books including Revolutionaries, Land of the Seven Rivers, The Ocean of Churn, India in the Age of Ideas, and the Indian Renaissance. He has also published over two hundred articles and columns in leading national and international publications.
Satyarth Nayak
Author and Screenwriter
His new book, Mahagatha, is an epic collection of 100 greatest mythological tales from the Puranas …
"PILF 2023"
About Satyarth Nayak
Satyarth Nayak is an author and screenwriter based in Mumbai. His new book, Mahagatha, published by HarperCollins, is an epic collection of 100 greatest mythological tales from the Puranas of Hinduism. Described by Anand Neelakantan as ‘a must-have in your home library,’ Mahagatha has become a National Bestseller. Satyarth’s biography, Sridevi – The Eternal Screen Goddess, published by Penguin in 2019 met with high acclaim. He is currently scripting a web-series and a Bollywood sci-fi film and writing Shabana Azmi’s biography.
Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri
Editor, Critic and Columnist
In 2017, he was named Editor of the Year by the apex publishing body, Publishing Next.
"PILF 2023"
About Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri
Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri is an editor, critic and columnist. In 2017, he was named Editor of the Year by the apex publishing body, Publishing Next. He is a film and music buff and has written for Anupama Chopra’s online magazine Film Companion, has been a consultant, writer and editor for the film website Cinemaazi.com, and writes regularly on books, films and music for a number of platforms, including The Telegraph, and has over 300 bylines. He is also a published author, with two books to his credit: Whims – A Book of Poems (published by Writers Workshop) and Icons from Bollywood (published by Penguin/Puffin). At present he is editor in chief at Om Books International.
Shilpa Mehta
Educator, Author and Storyteller
She has authored academic books for children
"PILF 2023"
About Shilpa Mehta
Shilpa Mehta is an educator, author and a storyteller. She has authored academic books for children. Her woven tales both in Hindi and English have found their way in various anthologies both in print and E magazines and through her YouTube channel @shilpastoryrack She follows her passion for storytelling as she believes that stories have the power to change the world by helping people find their voice. She is an avid reader, a music buff and also dabbles in painting.
Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan
Voice-over artist, Poet, Editor, and Author
Shobha is an award-winning voice-over artist, poet, editor, and author of a dozen works of fiction …
"PILF 2023"
About Shobha Tharoor Srinivasan
She is also a former non-profit development professional who spent two decades as an advocate and fundraiser for persons with disabilities. She won the 68th National Film Awards for Best Narration Voiceover for the film Rhapsody of Rains-Monsoons of Kerala, in 2022. Shobha has published children’s books in India and the United States, including the award-winning Indi-Alphabet (Mango and Marigold), Prince with a Paintbrush: The Story of Raja Ravi Varma (Westland), It’s Time to Rhyme (Aleph) and Parvati the Elephant’s Very Important Day (HarperCollins). Her first book for adults, Good Innings (Penguin), is being translated into Malayalam. Shobha’s love of words and stories began in childhood with storytelling sessions and wordplay with her siblings. When she is not travelling in search of stories
Shumita Mahajan
Bharatnatyam dancer.
Is a trained Bharatnatyam dancer, Guru and choreographer and is the Founder of the Sadhana Center…
"PILF 2023"
About Shumita Mahajan
Shumita Mahajan comes with over two decades of experience in Marketing and Communication and is also a trained Bharatnatyam dancer, Guru and choreographer. A double Gold medalist in MA (English Language) and Journalism and Communication (Electronic Media), Shumita has attained high success in her Media and Corporate avatars. She has served as Marketing Features Editor/ Features Editor/ Executive Editor in media conglomerates such as the Times group and Sakal media group. She has also served in the corporate sector in the capacity of General Manager (Social Venture Partners). Assoc. Vice- President (Marketing) with Global Talent Track and Business Head (Center for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Analytics). In 2020 she turned entrepreneur with her Research Bureau service organization “WORDS”. Shumita is also the Founder of the Sadhana Center for Performing Arts which she established in 1991. A classical dancer by training Shumita has represented India in International festivals across the globe and has won many laurels. A proud recipient of National awardsfor her contribution to the field of traditional art forms, she has trained a hearing impaired girl, a feat which also won the latter the National award in 2015. Shumita’s penchant for presenting traditional Indian performing genres in contemporary manner always wins her much audience appreciation. Shumita brings her years of experience in the field of Marketing and Leadership Communication and believes, the precepts when applied to Performing Arts in India, namely Classical dance, will open up the market for the traditional forms.
Sidharth Jain
Producer in the Indian Entertainment Industry
He founded The Story Ink in 2018, which is now India's Largest Book to Screen Adaptation Company
"PILF 2023"
About Sidharth Jain
Sidharth has been working as a Producer in the Indian Entertainment Industry for more than 15 years. He founded The Story Ink in 2018, which is now India's Largest Book to Screen Adaptation Company, having set up 200+ books across 50+ Production Houses. Story Ink represents 250+ Authors and exclusively controls the screen rights of more than 500 books. Story Ink has recently launched a new talent division that mentors and represents new and upcoming screenwriters. In 2022 Sidharth founded a film and series production company - House of Talkies, which made its debut with the critically acclaimed series - TRIAL BY FIRE on Netflix which was released in January 2023. Currently, House of Talkies has 3 series and 2 films in production for release in 2024. Sidharth's last (2015-17) corporate stint was at Hotstar.com. In the past Sidharth Founded (2008-14) India's first script-factory - iRock Films, where he worked with 75+ writers and developed more than 35 scripts and 100+ stories, over 5 years. Before that, he has worked as a producer in Los Angeles and ran a dotcom company. He is an avid collector, whose collection includes typewriters, bobbleheads, books, memorabilia and shoes!
Sister Sarita
Senior Rajyoga Teacher
Sister Sarita is working as a coach, management trainer, inspirational speaker.
"PILF 2023"
About Sister Sarita
Sister Sarita is working as a coach, management trainer, inspirational speaker, and guiding the development of individuals toward better self-reliance. She is known for her simplicity, positive attitude, politeness, pure love and cheerful face which shows clearly her tangible attainment of spirituality. With her pure desire for serving humanity and sharing wisdom, she has travelled far abroad such as UK, Australia, New Zealand, UAE and many intellectuals took benefit from it. She has been awarded with SuryaGaurav Puruskar in 2020. In 2016, she was awarded with Savitribai Jyotiba Phule Award
Smriti Dewan
Screenwriter and Director
Smriti Dewan is a professional screenwriter and director, who has spent close to a decade in the te…
"PILF 2023"
About Smriti Dewan
Smriti Dewan is a professional screenwriter and director, who has spent close to a decade in the television industry and OTT platforms. She began her career in post production with Red Chilies Entertainment and moved on to work as an assistant director on Kaun Banega Crorepati. Her fiction for TV includes shows like Ashoka on Colours, Lajwanti on Zee TV and an unreleased sports biopic. Smriti began directing short documentary features for 101India.com in 2016, and wrote, hosted and directed around 15 films on unique, real stories of India, for which she received many accolades and the chance to speak at TEDxHIT, Kolkata. This is her first book.
Snehha Avasarikkar
Editor
'अंतर्नाद' या मासिकाच्या कामात सलग १० वर्ष संपादकीय सहभाग. साहित्यसूची मासिकात सदर लेखन व संपादन.
"PILF 2023"
About Snehha Avasarikkar
'अंतर्नाद' या मासिकाच्या कामात सलग १० वर्ष संपादकीय सहभाग. साहित्यसूची मासिकात सदर लेखन व संपादन. मनोविकास प्रकाशनात संपादक तसेच प्रकाशनाच्या 'इत्यादि' या दिवाळी अंकांच संपादन . आकाशवाणीत नैमित्तिक निवेदक, आकाशवाणी, दूरचित्रवाणीच्या कार्यक्रमासाठी अनेक विषयांवर लेखन, निवेदन तसेच अनेक मान्यवरांच्या मुलाखती. 'सप्तसूर माझे' या संगीतकार अशोक पत्की यांच्या आत्मचरित्राचे शब्दांकन. वृत्तपत्र, मासिके, दिवाळी अंकातून सातत्याने लेखन वेगवेगळ्या माध्यमांसाठी अनेक मान्यवर लेखकांच्या शंभराहून अधिक मुलाखती. ललित'मध्ये दशकातील साहित्यिक या मालेत समकालीन महत्त्वाच्या युवा साहित्यिकांच्या मुलाखतींचे सदर. बारीक बारीक आवाज वाढत चाललेत हा कथा संग्रह प्रकाशित. सध्या 'अक्षरधारा' या दिवाळी वार्षिकाचे संपादन.
Sohini Roychowdhury
Choreographer, Author, Speaker
Internationally renowned Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, author and professor of Natyashastra
"PILF 2023"
About Sohini Roychowdhury
Sohini Roychowdhury, internationally renowned Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, author, speaker, producer, and professor of Natyashastra, is the founder of Sohinimoksha World Dance & Communications in Madrid, Berlin, Kolkata & New York, and Sohinimoksha Artes de La India in Spain. A visiting professor of dance at 17 Universities across the globe, Sohini is a winner of multiple awards across the globe. ‘The Dance of Kali’ (Shubhi Publications, 2023), her latest book, co-authored with Rishi Dasgupta, is about the divine feminine, and was globally launched at the 2023 Bloomsbury Festival, London. Her previous publications, ‘Dancing with The Gods’ (Roli Books, 2020) and ‘Indian Stage Stories’ (Shubhi Publications, 2022) were launched at UK Parliament House of Commons, and the Jaipur Lit Fests of 2022 and ’23. A social activist, Sohini devotes significant time towards the upliftment of marginalized children through her art.
Sriram Karri
Author, Journalist, and Orator
His first novel, "Autobiography of a Mad Nation", was long-listed for the MAN Asian Literary prize.
"PILF 2023"
About Sriram Karri
His first novel, "Autobiography of a Mad Nation", was long-listed for the MAN Asian Literary prize. He works as the Resident Editor of Deccan Chronicle. He has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, BBC, HuffingtonPost, Economic Times, Scroll, FirstPost, The Wire, Asia Times, Khaleej Times, among others. He also worked for several tech corporations and institutions, including Infosys, TCS, Satyam Computers, Indian School of Business, et al. As moderator, he has anchored conversations with Amitav Ghosh, Shashi Tharoor, Sudha Narayana Murthy, Subramanian Swamy, Jairam Ramesh, Vishwanathan Anand, Karan Thapar, Sanjaya Baru, N. Ram, among others.
Sucheta Paranjape(Dr)
Sanskrit Scholar
Dr Sucheta Paranjape has done her doctorate in Vedic Studies. She was professor of Sanskrit at TMV,…
"PILF 2023"
About Sucheta Paranjape(Dr)
A Ph.D in Vedic studies, Dr Sucheta Paranjape was professor of Sanskrut at TMV, and worked at Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, Pune, on the Mahabharata project. She was visiting faculty at Macalester College , U.S. and Leipzig University, Germany. She has also worked as a Director, India Studies program, for Associated Colleges of the Midwest, Chicago. She has taught Sanskrut, Hindi and Marathi to foreigners from all over the world. Her mission is to spread the treasure of Indian heritage to all the people across world.
Sunil Deodhar (Dr.)
Author and Poet
कविता,गीत, लेख, समीक्षा, रूपांतर, अनुवाद आदि साहित्यिक रचना धर्मिता से संपन्न हैं
"PILF 2023"
About Sunil Deodhar (Dr.)
डॉक्टर सुनील देवधर बहुआयामी व्यक्तित्व के धनी हैं. एक ओर जहां कविता,गीत, लेख, समीक्षा, रूपांतर, अनुवाद आदि साहित्यिक रचना धर्मिता से संपन्न हैं, वहीं दूसरी ओर प्रसारण के क्षेत्र में भी अपनी लेखनी, खूबसूरत आवाज, और कल्पनाशीलता को, एकसाथ साधते हुए, न सिर्फ नए प्रयोग किए हैं, बल्कि इन विधाओं को "लिखी कागद कोरे", "मोहन से महात्मा" "संवादों के आईने में", "बड़े अनमोल गीतों के बोल" जैसी पुस्तकों के माध्यम से उन्हें सहेजने का भी महत्वपूर्ण कार्य किया है. 'माझा प्रवास', 'कथा इसरो ची',नाटक -'पाहिजे जातीचे' काव्य संग्रह निद्रानाश जैसी कुछ पुस्तकों का मराठी से हिन्दी में अनुवाद किया है. स्कूल, कॉलेज के पाठ्यक्रम में भी कुछ रचनाएं शामिल हैं. रेडियो प्रसारण के क्षेत्र में एक कंपलीट ब्रॉडकास्टर के रूप में उनकी पहचान है.
Sushil Borde
Heads the Anjani Mashelkar Foundation
Sushil Borde also heads innovation at Reliance. Sushil has also led Mumbai Indians, a cricket franc…
"PILF 2023"
About Sushil Borde
Sushil Borde heads the Anjani Mashelkar Foundation, established by Dr R A Mashelkar. The foundation accelerates disruptive, high-tech, ultra-affordable innovations for transformative impact. Sushil Borde also heads innovation at Reliance. Sushil has also led Mumbai Indians, a cricket franchise of the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was also part of the founding teams of Reliance Foundation and Jio Institute (Reliance’s University in India) Sushil has been the President of the Fab Foundation of MIT, Boston. Sushil also led the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Strategy for South Africa.
Tanushree Podder
Travel Writer and Novelist
She has written many nonfiction books before moving to fiction and has published 18 novels
"PILF 2023"
About Tanushree Podder
Tanushree is a well-known travel writer and novelist. She enjoys writing in various genres. This has led to her writing in historical, military, crime, and paranormal genres for adults and children. She has written many nonfiction books before moving to fiction and has published 18 novels. Among her books are bestsellers like Nurjahan’s Daughter, Boots Belts Berets, On the Double, An Invitation to Die, Spooky Stories, and Ambapali. Three of her books, Boots Belts Berets, A Closetful of Skeletons, and The Girls in Green, are being adapted into web series. Tanushree has been on the board of juries for several prestigious awards. She has also conducted several workshops on writing and leadership, both for children and adults.
Tejas Modak
Graphic Novelist, Artist and Screenwriter.
Tejas Modak is a graphic novelist, artist and noted Marathi screenwriter.
"PILF 2023"
About Tejas Modak
Tejas Modak is a graphic novelist, artist and noted Marathi screenwriter. His work includes the fun book Private Eye Anonymous, and Marathi films Rajwade & Sons,1Gulab Jam and Pondicherry to name a few.
Tomer Gardi
Author
His novel 'And Nothing Never Ends' he won the Prize of the Leipzig Bookfair 2022.
"PILF 2023"
About Tomer Gardi
Tomer Gardi, born in 1974 in Kibbutz Dan in Galiläa, studied Hebrew literature and educational science in Jerusalem and Berlin. He was editor of the journal »Sedek: A Journal on the Ongoing Nakba«, a project of the Isreali-Jewish initiative Zochrot that aims to make the memory of the expulsion of the Palestinians part of public debate. Tomer Gardi’s literary essay Stein, Papier was published in 2011. Broken German, Tomer Gardis first novel written in German, caused broad discussion in Germany on literature and migration. Otherwise You’ll Get Your Money Back, his second novel, was published in Hebrew 2018 and in German translation in 2019. With his novel And Nothing Never Ends he won the Prize of the Leipzig Bookfair 2022. He is currently working on a novel about the lives and work of food delivery workers in five different cities in the world, one of them is Delhi.
Uday S. Kulkarni (Dr)
Surgeon, Alumni of AFMC Pune
Served in the Indian Navy for 16 yrs. Voluntary retirement in rank of Surgeon Commander.
"PILF 2023"
About Uday S. Kulkarni (Dr)
Dr .Uday S. Kulkarni, Surgeon, Alumni of AFMC Pune, Served in the Indian Navy for 16 yrs. Voluntary retirement in rank of Surgeon Commander. Has written seven books in English on 18th Century Indian history, centering on the Marathas. Fellows Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Awarded Shivsmruti puraskar of 2022 and Abasaheb Muzumdar award of 2022. Inducted in Hall of Fame at AFMC Pune in 2023.
Vaibhav Purandare
Writer and Independent Historian
Vaibhav Purandare is a writer and independent historian. He has so far authored five bestselling no…
"PILF 2023"
About Vaibhav Purandare
Vaibhav Purandare is a writer and independent historian. He has so far authored five bestselling non-fiction books. His latest book, Shivaji: India’s Great Warrior King, published by Juggernaut Books, examines a singular figure in the early modern history of India. His other books are Hitler And India: The Untold Story of His Hatred For The Country And Its People, Savarkar: The True Story of the Father of Hindutva, Bal Thackeray and the Rise of the Shiv Sena, and Sachin Tendulkar: A Definitive Biography. He works as a senior editor with The Times of India.
Vandana Saxena Poria
An OBE and top 100 UK-India influencer
She is known as the ‘Human Alarm Clock’, due to her disruptive thinking which ignites people
"PILF 2023"
About Vandana Saxena Poria
Vandana Saxena Poria, the co-author of 'Let Me Hijack Your Mind: Restart Your Life with Freedom', is an OBE and top 100 UK-India influencer. She is known as the ‘Human Alarm Clock’, due to her disruptive thinking which ignites people. She has extensive experience in translating academic and industry texts into digestible stories and training exercises for corporates globally. Vandana spent three years collaborating with Alyque on this book prior to his death.
Vinita Deshmukh
Author, Journalist, Activist
Consulting Editor, Corporate Citizen magazine. Author of the book `The Mighty Fall' and co-author o…
"PILF 2023"
About Vinita Deshmukh
Consulting Editor, Corporate Citizen magazine (fortnightly) ,Consulting Editor, MoneyLife. Former Deputy Resident Editor and Senior Editor of The Indian Express, Pune . Author of the book `The Mighty Fall' (based on Pratibha Patil post-retirement home scam and Dow Chemicals - success stories through use of RTI) co-author of the book `To The Last Bullet' (based on Vinita Kamte's expose of the needless deaths of her police officer husband Ashok Kamter along with Hemant Karkare and Vijay Salaskar in 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, through evidence she procured under RTI) Compiled and edited a book on RTI for YASHADA, `Milestone 7: Journey of RTI Act' Convener, RTI Forum For Instant Information (RFII) Convener, Pune Passport Grievance Forum (PPGF) Convener, Pune Metro Jagruti Abhiyaan
Vishwas Patil
Acclaimed Marathi Writer
Vishwas Patil is one of the most acclaimed Marathi writers today. He has written iconic novels like…
"PILF 2023"
About Vishwas Patil
He has written iconic novels like Ranangan, Chandramukhi, Pangira, Zadazadati, Panipat and Sambhaji. He received the Nath Madhav Award and the Bhartiya Bhasha Parishad Award for Panipat; the Priyadarshini National Award, the Vikhe Patil Award and the Sahitya Akademi Award for Zhadazdati; and the Gadkari Award for Mahanayak.
Vivek Sood
Senior Counsel in the Supreme Court of India.
Vivek Sood is well known Senior Counsel in the Supreme Court of India.
"PILF 2023"
About Vivek Sood
Vivek Sood is a Senior Counsel in the Supreme Court of India, he is well known for his expertise in diverse branches of law, including constitutional, commercial, technology and criminal laws. He has written extensively on cybercrime, electronic evidence, immunity to internet intermediaries, electronic contracts, taxation of internet entities, intellectual property rights in the virtual world, arbitration, insolvency law and constitutional issues with respect to the right to privacy.
Vrushali Barbare
Child Development Consultant
Vrushali Barbare is a child development consultant and founder of Enlit Kids.
"PILF 2023"
About Vrushali Barbare
Vrushali Barbare is a child development consultant and founder of Enlit Kids which endeavors to provide a 360 degrees solution for child development and education by empowering schools with meaningful educational resources. Through her signature reading program ‘The Reading Pandits’, she has made a difference in many young lives, .Vrushali’s contribution has recently been recognized by Women Leaders Forum with an award for Best Director- Excellence in Local Community Engagement.
Yatindra Mishra
Hindi Poet, Music and Cinema Scholar
He has four collections of Hindi poetry, several well received books on Indian Classical Music & C…
"PILF 2023"
About Yatindra Mishra
Yatindra Mishra is a celebrated Hindi Poet, Music and Cinema Scholar. He has four collections of Hindi poetry, several well received books on Indian Classical Music & Cinema, including 'Girija' (Based on Girija Devi), 'Devpriya' (Dialogue with Sonal Mansingh), 'Sur Ki Baradari' (Life & Times of Ustad Bismillah Khan) and 'Akhtari' (Life & Music of Begum Akhtar). Edited gazetteer of Faizabad titled 'Shahernama Faizabad' and authored cultural history of Ayodhya titled 'Ayodhya : Parampara, Sanskriti, Virasat. His book 'Lata : Sur-Gatha' won total of Six Awards in 2017 including the prestigious 64th National Film Award for Best Writing on Cinema (Swarna Kamal) and MAMI Mumbai Film Festival Award for Best Writing on Cinema. Served as Jury Chairman for 69th National Film Awards- 2021 for best writing on Cinema. His latest book 'Gulzar : Hazaar Rahen Mud Ke Dekhin' is based on the Life and works of Filmmaker Gulzar.
