Chennai: Puthiyathalaimurai has launched the 10th edition of its highly regarded Sakthi Awards, celebrating a decade of honoring women who have made remarkable contributions to society across diverse fields. The Sakthi Awards, presented annually, recognize six extraordinary individuals whose achievements embody strength, courage, and leadership, inspiring change in their respective domains.
The awards are given in six distinct categories: Courage, Talent, Leadership, Knowledge, Compassion, and Achievement. This year’s theme for the Sakthi Awards is “Accelerate Actions towards Achieving Gender Equality,” underlining the importance of gender inclusivity and the need for collective efforts in achieving equality for all.
The 2025 Sakthi Awards honor the following distinguished awardees:
- Courage Award: Mrs. Muthamizh Selvi, the first woman from Tamil Nadu to conquer Mount Everest, who continues to inspire with her unwavering determination and grit.
- Talent Award: Mrs. Purnaa Sundari I.R.S., an exemplary officer in the Indian Revenue Service who overcame visual impairment, demonstrating unmatched perseverance and dedication.
- Leadership Award: Maj Gen Ignatius Delos Flora, the first Tamil Major General in the Indian Army Nursing Service, whose remarkable career shattered stereotypes and set new standards for women in military service.
- Compassion Award: Mrs. Shyamala Nataraj, an advocate and policymaker whose work in HIV/AIDS awareness and rights has had a profound impact on society.
- Knowledge Award: Dr. Tara, a tireless campaigner for mental health awareness, fighting against superstition and stigma surrounding mental illness in India.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Captain Lakshmi Krishnan, 98 years old, who contributed to the Indian freedom struggle alongside Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, starting her courageous journey at the young age of 15.
The vibrant awards ceremony took place at the Nandambakkam Trade Center in Chennai, with public participation and the presence of several distinguished guests. The grand celebration of women’s resilience and strength will be telecast on Puthiyathalaimurai Television on March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
