25 power women of the country

They're the 25 power women of the country, the physical manifestation of will, power, grace, dedication, hard work and extraordinary brilliance.With each step they take, whether it's business, politics, arts, films, banking, hospitality or sports, they keep raising the bar and breaking untouched barriers. These are the women who have made India shine on a global platform.NAINA LAL KIDWAI, 52 GROP CHAIRMAN & CONTRY HEADHSBC INDIA Because she took HSBC India to startling new heights even during the recession. Because the the company reported an increase in profit by over 40 per cent at the beginning of last year. Because under her leadership they launched a Life Insurance Joint Venture company in India, in association with Canara Bank and Oriental Bank of Commerce that reported a premium income close to Rs 300 crore. Because under her guidance, they have taken corporate sustainability to the next level that has won her and the bank accolades for their contribution to the environment.The Wild Side When not banking she spends her free time holidaying at wildlife parks like Kaziranga National Park, Jim Corbett National Park and Kanha National Park with her husband Rashid and children, Kemaya and Rumaal.Her Best Friends are her pet dogs, a German Shepherd named Wolfie and a Labrador called Trigger.A big movie buff Her favourites include a healthy mix of all genres from Chak de India to Mamma Mia and The Namesake, she loves them all.

TANYA DBASH, 41EXECTIVE DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT (MARKETING)GODREJ GROP

Because after taking over a key position in the company, she has changed the way people look at Godrej as a brand. Because she has given the company a fresh, youthful makeover whether it's through reality television or product-based incentives. Because she introduced the concept of experience marketing with Godrej Nature's Basket, a world food store. Because with seven major companies, Godrej's turnover crosses Rs 1,100 crore.Time out She loves to spend time with her husband, Arvind and her kids, Aryan and Azaar. She also likes to read and travel. What the Dog Saw by Malcolm Gladwell is one of her favourite books. Her other favourites include Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl and Eat Pray and Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. She likes to watch films and takes time out to catch the latest ones. The three films she liked the most were Sherlock Holmes, 3 Idiots and My Name is Khan.She aims to bring alive a brighter experience for consumers, more vibrant expressions of what they want in a more empathetic manner and ultimately create progress for all of Godrej's stakeholders.

CHANDA KOCHHAR, 47CEO& MD, ICICI BANK

Because she heads India's largest private banks with an asset base of Rs 3.8 lakh crore. Because she is ranked number 20 on the Forbes list of the 100 most powerful women in the world. Because in a year fraught with financial upheaval post recession, her bank emerged stronger on all parameters recording an operating profit of 22 per cent minus treasury income. Because this is just the beginning, as she says, "2009 made us emerge stronger but 2010 is the year of growth opportunity."What's next "We are using the current year to position our balance sheet to take advantage of the next phase of growth." With an aim to increase the bank's network from 1,520 to 2,000 plus branches.Her one passion besides banking Is Hindi cinema. A die-hard Bollywood fan, she can often be spotted in the Mumbai multiplexes on weekends.Her Role Models Are both bankers, N. Vaghul and K.V. Kamath. Vaghul shared his wisdom with her and she believes that ICICI Group's culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and good governance is the legacy that her role model left behind. On the other hand, Kamath is her mentor. She feels fortunate to be mentored by a man who was farsighted enough to revolutionise the way banking worked in India.

PREETHA REDDY, 52MANAGING DIRECTORAPOLLO HOSPITALS GROP

Because she has constantly innovated and revamped the Rs 1,800 crore Apollo Hospitals Group. Because through her efforts the Government of India honoured the group with the release of a postage stamp for it's role in India's health care sector. Because she belongs to a group of 10 business heads that form the Indo-S CEOs Forum this year. Because she is the first woman advisor on health care to the Indian government. Because she is also the director of Kalakshetra, the legendary dance school in Chennai.Role Model "My father Dr Prathap C Reddy. He's so positive. For him, there is always an upside to something and he never loses focus on what he's here for."Silver Screen James Cameron's Avatar made a huge impression. It's a film she can watch many times over.

AKSHATA MRTY, 30ENTREPRENER

Because she is not content to sit back on a famous surname. Because she gave up a job in venture capital and decided to listen to her heart. Because she is launching a contemporary clothing line with traditional Indian roots. Because she has chosen a path that no one in her family has. Because, Akshata, her clothing line, made in consultation with design students, aims to give artisans of this country a platform in the West.She shares a special bond With her mother Sudha Murthy, who is her friend, philosopher and guide. It's her capability to balance career, family and society that has left an impact.

NIRPAMA RAO, 59FOREIGN SECRETARY

Because she is the first woman full-term foreign secretary in India's history. Because she has brought in a new diplomatic style with her out-of-the-box thinking. Because she is known to be a tough negotiator and is handling the ongoing dialogue with Pakistan. Because she has served at key diplomatic assignments like China and Sri Lanka. Because she was also the first woman spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs.Wordsmith A compilation of her poems was published under the title Rain Rising in 2004.

SHILPA GPTA, 33INSTALLATION ARTIST

Because she has three solo shows lined up this year, the first of which is currently being showcased at The Contemporary Art Center in Cincinnati. Because her work is already a part of art school books in the K. Because she is one of the few Indian artists to have showcased her work at the Yvon Lambert, France and Gallery Continua, Italy. Because she has been interviewed by veteran German artist and intellectual Peter Weibel.Most special work is her current project, While I Sleep on the theme of fears and prejudices.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA, 27ACTOR

Because this former Miss World made a clean sweep at the award ceremonies last year. Because she won the National Award, a first for a person in her 20s, after her brilliant performance in Fashion. Because she is on top of the Bollywood game with four back-to-back successes from Fashion, Dostana, Kaminey to What's Your Rashee.Because she is being talked about, not for her link-ups with co-actors but her work, a welcome change in an industry obsessed with gossip. Because every director worth his weight wants to work with her. Because her forthcoming films include Siddharth Anand's Anjaana Anjaani, Vishal Bhardwaj's untitled next and Farhan Akhtar's Don 2. Because she is also NICEF's National Celebrity working for children's rights.Quote nquote "My work is my elixir. It's what keeps evil away and is the one thing that's always stood by me."National Award Moment "I was in New York when I heard and it was four in the morning. I really didn't know whether to jump or scream. I spent the next four hours on the phone talking to friends and family.

"ROOPA KDVA, 46REGION HEAD,SOTH ASIA, STANDARD & POORSMD & CEO, CRISIL

Because she is the MD and CEO of India's first credit rating agency. Because Crisil's rating coverage has grown nearly eight times since 2008. Because when the financial meltdown in the S put rating firms under the scanner Kudva and her team promptly stepped up communication with the users of its ratings by sending out rating alerts to investors and general public even before a company was downgraded or upgraded.Her most memorable experience At work has been walking in unannounced for an interview and walking out with a job in hand.

SWATI PIRAMAL, 53DIRECTOR, PIRAMAL HEALTH CARE & PRESIDENTASSOCHAM

Because she has truly been able to break the glass ceiling after becoming the first woman to head an apex business chamber in India. Because since her appointment, she has invited 100 women to chair all the national committees of ASSOCHAM this year. Because Piramal Life Sciences, where she is vice chairperson, is gearing up to deliver the first drug developed by an Indian research company.She is passionate about Sufi poetry, studying medieval history and literature.Her most memorable experience has been meeting former S President Bill Clinton and having a one-on-one discussion with him.

RAJSHREE PATHY, 53CHAIRPERSONRAJSHREE SGARS AND CHEMICALS

Because she is Chairperson of Rajshree Sugars and Chemicals, a company with interests across integrated fields such as sugar, power co-generation and biotechnology. Because in 2009, she completely reorganised Rajshree Sugars and inducted new top-class professionals, to move on to the next growth phase. Because the turnover of her company and its subsidiaries is expected to exceed Rs 600 crore in March 2010. Because she was elected the President of SISM (South India Sugar Mills) for the second term 2007-2009.What this woman wants Is to always succeed and be ranked among the best in whatever she does.She dreams To see all her goals for Rajshree Sugars turn to reality. She is also waiting for her children Aishwarya and Aditya to bless her with lots of grandchildren.

VINITA BALI, 53MANAGING DIRECTORBRITANNIAGROP

Because she took charge of a near rudderless firm and turned its fortunes around making its topline profit double in four years between 2005-09. Because her company has been growing at 20 per cent annually. Because its market share, in the Rs 6,000-crore biscuit market has stabilised around 35 per cent. Because money making is not the only thing she cares about. Because Britannia's work with Global Alliance for improved nutrition got her international acclaim at the Clinton Global Initiative.Life after work Involves working out and listening to western and Indian classical music.

AGATHA SANGMA, 29NION MINISTER OF STATE FOR RRAL DEVELOPMENT

Because at the age of 28, she became the youngest MP. Because she is the youngest minister in the current council of ministers. Because this former lawyer is the face of the youth in a country where politics is the domain of the old and the wise. Because despite being the daughter of former Lok Sabha Speaker P.S. Sangma and sister to James and Conrad who are in Meghalaya state politics, she has managed to carve out her own identity.Earth Calling A Master's in environmental management from the niversity of Nottingham, she also dabbles in nature photography.

MALLIKA SRINIVASAN, 50DIRECTORTAFE

Because she rose above the stereotypes and made a mark in the macho tractor business. Because her great delegation and communication skills worked very well during the downturn when TAFE grew despite the gloom in the environment. Because it is the first tractor company to be recognised for strong commitment to excel at the 15th Quality Summit conducted by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Bangalore.Woman Power She is a serious votary of woman power and feels women's contribution to society has often been underestimated.

PRIYA PAL, 43CHAIRPERSONAPEEJAY SRRENDRA PARKHOTELS

Because she has revamped the concept of a boutique hotel and given it a chic, edgy identity. Because despite the downturn, the group has successfully expanded to include a 10-room land property and an eight-room boutique cruiser in Kerala and a hotel in Hyderabad. Because the group also opened ItALIA, a stand-alone restaurant in Delhi and launched its own spa brand, Aura. Because the turnover for 2009-2010 is expected to be around Rs 250 crore. Because she is also one of India's foremost art collectors with an eclectic taste that ranges from the traditional to the contemporary. Because she is also the founding member of the World Travel and Tourism Council-India Initiative and chairperson of South Asia Women's Fund.Future Perfect Three new properties are currently going through their design phase, Paul says and are scheduled to open in about two years from now. There is the group's second property in Kolkata, Jaipur and Pune.

LOVELEEN TANDAN, 36FILM DIRECTOR

Because she brought home the Oscars as casting director and co-director of the eight-time Oscar winning Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle. Because she belongs to that category of young women directors who defy convention and bravely venture into new frontiers.The slumdog moment The infamous "potty scene. It was actually dollops of peanut butter chocolate sauce that we had used to soak little Jamal. He would keep licking it off", she says.Passion turns career From Mira Nair's Monsoon Wedding, Vanity Fair and The Namesake to Steven Spielberg's Terminal and Sarah Gavron's Brick Lane, it has been a long and fulfilling road.

PADMASREE WARRIOR, 48CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICERCISCO SYSTEMS INC

Because her company's revenue for 2009 was Rs 1,65,000 crores. Because under her leadership, Cisco took huge strides in the realm of cloud computing, virtualisation, connected life and TelePresence and the new and emerging opportunities they present. Because recently, the nited States Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce recognised her with its prestigious Excellence Award.Creative Energy She is an artist at heart. She has channeled her creative energies through her favorite mediums of clay and acrylics. She finds dance fun and creative.Quote nquote She believes that there is more to a CTO's role than just looking for cutting-edge products but needs to come up with new business models to monetise that technology.

NAMRITA JHANGIANI, 55PARTNEREGON ZEHNDER INTERNATIONAL

Because She's a partner with Egon Zehnder International which is the world's largest executive search firm. Because in 2009, despite the recession, Egon Zehnder not only refrained from laying people off like other firms, in the domestic and international market, but also opened a new office in Bengaluru and continued recruiting. Because she has worked extensively in recruitment for CEO board levels in the finance, pharmaceutical and BPO sectors. Because their revenues are close to Rs 2,000 crore.Happiness quotient She loves being right at the heart of strategic discussions with senior leadership of the corporate world. Seeing the company's share price go up with the announcement of a hire she makes is a thrill.Reading room Her latest favourites are The Music Room by Namita Devidayal and The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni.BHAIRAVI JANI, 30DIRECTORSCA GROP OF COMPANIESBecause at 30 she is the Director of the SCA group of Companies which specialises in shipping, warehousing, logistics and many more. Because she is the Chairperson of CII's Young Indians. Because with her fresh ideas she ventured into unchartered territories. Because despite the recession they launched Transmart India Pvt. Ltd, the first modern warehousing company with state of the art technology, causing a big shift in the industry. Because there are projects with over Rs 1,000 crore investment in warehousing.Dancing queen Trained in Bharatanatyam, she dances to unwind.

DEVITA SARAF, 28CEOV TECHNOLOGIES

Because besides being CEO, Vu technologies, she is an executive committee member of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Because she is a part of Mensa, an international society of people whose IQ ranks in the top two per cent of the world's population. Because she is the founder and chairperson of the young Bombay forum of the Bombay chamber, part of the Bombay Chamber of Commerce and Industry.Art fetish She has taken classes in pottery, jewellry designing at the Indo American Institute where she received a diploma in it, graphic designing and Ikebana.

NEELAM DHAWAN, 49MANAGING DIRECTORHEWLETTPACKARD, INDIA

Because she is the Managing Director of Hewlett Packard, India. Because despite the recession, HP remained at the number one spot in domestic companies as well as multinationals in India. Because she pioneered philanthropic drives where close to Rs 130 crore was pumped into the sectors of education, entrepreneurship development, environment and disaster relief.Her mantra for success "Nothing is too difficult. We need to try and give it our best and the results automatically will follow."She strongly recommends Good to Great a book where author Jim Collins answers questions about how good companies become great.

CHITRA RAMAKRISHNA, 46JOINT MANAGING DIRECTORNATIONAL STOCK EXCHANGE

Because she is the Joint Managing Director of the National Stock Exchange. Because she has been a part of the founding committee of NSE and has grown with the institution to hold such a senior position. Because with her playing a key role in the decision making process, the network of NSE has strengthened with offices in 1,500 cities across the country.Honesty is her best policy She believes that the best road to success, personal and professional, is by being honest in whatever one does.No Camera, only action Far from hogging media attention she shies away from it. She believes that her actions will always speak louder than her words.Best moment "Every moment in the past 15 years has been exciting.

"MEERA SHANKAR, 59INDIA'S AMBASSADOR TO THE NITED STATES

Because she is the only woman to be appointed Indian Ambassador to the nited States since Vijaylakshmi Pandit. Because she has been deputed to the job to give momentum to the transforming Indo-S ties under a new administration in Washington DC. Because she is the lady-incharge when it comes to negotiating the civil nuke deal, counter-terrorism cooperation and outsourcing with the S.Power Duo She and foreign secretary Nirupama Rao, two of the most powerful diplomats in India, are from the 1973 batch of IAS officers and served as part of the strong female diplomatic contingent under former Ambassador S.S. Ray, in Washington DC from 1991 to 1995.

ROHINI IYER, 28OWNERRAINDROP MEDIA

Because She runs one of the biggest brand and image management companies for celebrities. Because her client list reads like a who's who, from Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Saif Ali Khan, Nadiadwala Grandsons, Eros International, Venus to Hari Om Productions. Because she handles everything from press meets to film screenings, outdoor shoots, brand endorsements and building thier brand image.Tuning In Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head was the inspiration behind her company name.

MEHER PDMJEE, 43CHAIRPERSONTHERMAX LIMITED

Because After completing her degree in chemical engineering from London, she decided to come back to India and start as a trainee in Thermax Limited, now a Rs 3,000 crore company. Because under her, the company's global influence is increasing by technology partnerships and business alliances with German organisations and the recent visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Dr. Horst Koehler to the Thermax Limited's factory in Chinchwad, Pune.The love for music She is passionate about western classical music and is a part of The Chamber Singers, a Pune-based western classical choir. They meet every Tuesday to practice and hold concerts once or twice a year in Mumbai and Pune.Family first She loves spending time with her husband, Pheroze and her two children. Her family is her biggest safety net, a source of unconditional love.With Inputs by Sumaiya Khan, Gunjeet Sra and Chitra Subramanyam