India's top 10 leading female philanthropists making a difference

Nov 8, 2024

By: Kapil Yadav

Edelgive-Hurun India philanthropy list

The data in this list is based on the 2024 Edelgive-Hurun India philanthropy list that identifies 21 women in the Indian philanthropic landscape who have made significant donations to different causes focused on nation-building.

Credit: Hurun

Rohini Nilekani

Rohini Nilekani, an author and philanthropist, chairs Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and co-founded EkStep, a non-profit education platform. She leads the list with ₹154 crores in donations, supporting diverse causes for nation-building.

Credit: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies

Susmita Bagchi

An author and co-founder of Mindtree, Susmita Bagchi has donated ₹90 crores to improve India's healthcare system, making her a prominent figure in the philanthropic space.

Credit: X @Susmita4Odisha

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

Founder of Biocon, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, has donated ₹85 crores towards research and development, contributing significantly to biotechnology and healthcare initiatives in India.

Credit: Biocon

Sara George Muthoot

Sara George Muthoot, an educationist, has donated ₹74 crores to support education. Her efforts have positively influenced India's education policies and systems, especially for underprivileged communities.

Credit: St. George's school

Anu Aga & family

Anu Aga, an Indian billionaire and chairperson of Thermax, donated ₹48 crores, focusing on education and social welfare. She is also listed among the richest Indian women by Forbes.

Credit: Thermax

Leena Gandhi Tewari

Leena Gandhi Tewari has contributed ₹25 crores towards social development causes, including education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, reflecting her commitment to societal welfare.

Credit: Business Insider India

Ina Ashwin Dani & family

Ina Ashwin Dani, from the promoter group of Asian Paints, donated ₹18 crores to foster self-sustaining communities. Her initiatives empower individuals and engage communities in transformative actions.

Credit: Hitech

Archana Chandra

CEO of the Jai Vakeel Foundation, Archana Chandra donated ₹11 crores. Her focus on supporting children with intellectual challenges demonstrates her dedication to creating an equitable and inclusive society.

Credit: Linkedin @ArchanaChandra

Shabana Faizal

Co-founder of the Faizal and Shabana Foundation, Shabana Faizal donated ₹10 crores to support youth development, healthcare, sustainable practices, and humanitarian aid, furthering her mission of social change.

Credit: Faizalshabana.org

​Ritu Chhabria

Ritu Chhabria, co-founder and Managing Trustee of the Mukul Madhav Foundation donated ₹9 crores. Her charitable work is focused on improving the lives of marginalised and vulnerable communities.

Credit: Mukul Madhav Foundation

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