Pragat Bharat Puraskar Celebrates Nation Builders Across Industry, Governance, Innovation and Social Impact!

The Pragat Bharat Puraskar, organised by #EkNayeeDisha and presented by Afternoon Voice, was held with grandeur, purpose, and national spirit, bringing together leaders from governance, industry, diplomacy, social service, and innovation under one roof.

The prestigious ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent Chief Guests including Shri Dhan Singh Rawat, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Uttarakhand, Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, former C M of Uttarakhand, Shivaji Satam, renowned actor; Mr. Joakim Gunnarsson, Deputy Consul General of Sweden; Ms. Adriana Villanueva Becerril, Deputy Consul General of Mexico; and Adv. Nihar Thackeray, Founder & managing Partner, Vis Legis Law Practice.

The event honoured individuals and institutions whose work reflects tangible contribution to India’s progress across entrepreneurship, healthcare, law, culture, agriculture, diplomacy, technology, and social transformation.

While accepting the Best Hotelier & Entrepreneur award, Dr. Vithal Kamat, Executive Chairman & MD of Kamat Hotels Group, spoke candidly about resilience in business. “India is full of people who rose despite a lack of opportunities and went on to achieve remarkable success. But success doesn’t grant immunity from setbacks – business losses are inevitable. During COVID, I faced massive losses, yet I dealt with the situation humbly and with resolve. What truly matters is dedication, commitment, and the strength to overcome every challenge business throws at you,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Dhan Singh Rawat highlighted the importance of recognition-driven platforms in nurturing entrepreneurship. “Such events are essential to encourage young startups. Narendra Modi has already given the nation a clear vision. Appreciation motivates businessmen, strengthens confidence, and fuels entrepreneurial growth,” he noted.

Former Uttarakhand CM Shri Tirath Singh Rawat underlined India’s growing global stature, stating that the Prime Minister’s vision of a trillion-dollar economy is steadily turning into reality. “Such events bring successful business groups and startups under one roof, helping bridge the gap between experience and innovation,” he said. He also appreciated Dr. Vaidehi Taman, Editor of Afternoon Voice, for extending support to differently-abled individuals through charitable initiatives during the event to help them begin their entrepreneurial journey. “This kind of support builds confidence among those who are not privileged and reassures them that society stands with them,” he added.

Speaking on social inclusion, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, honoured for Social Transformation & Inclusive Leadership, reflected on her journey, saying, “My struggle to empower the transgender community was extremely hard. But when your work is appreciated, it gives you strength and motivation to continue.”

Adv. Nihar Thackeray stated, “The practice of law is a duty of responsibility – towards the Constitution, our institutions, and society at large. In a rapidly evolving India, a lawyer’s role goes beyond interpreting statutes; it is about strengthening systems, upholding ethical standards, and enabling progress rooted in fairness. I remain firmly committed to that mission.”

Dr. Vaidehi Taman, Founder-Editor of Afternoon Voice and presenter of the Pragat Bharat Awards, expressed her happiness and stated, “People have been incredibly kind to us. Despite their stature and achievements, they have consistently extended wholehearted support in every endeavour. The objective behind this platform was to bring diverse business groups together and create meaningful opportunities for the future.”

The ceremony honoured a wide spectrum of achievers including Sanjay Bhide, Sandip Soparrkar, Ms. Uttara Mone, Dattatraya Ghadge, Adhik Kadam, CA Uttam Agarwal, Acupuncturist and naturopath Santosh Pandey, Ramdas Karvande, Dr. Gagan Raina, Dr. Reza Seyeden, Genavinta Health Care, Sudheendra Rao S, CA Venkat Reddy, and Abhijeet Rane, among others.

The presence of international diplomats from Sweden and Mexico reinforced the global dimension of the event, highlighting India’s growing engagement with the world across innovation, sustainability, and people-to-people cooperation.