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WOMEN OF VISION AWARDS 2025: Celebrating empowered and visionary women
Pioneers who lead with purpose, inspire with resilience, and redefine possibilities.
GJC, GJS in association with JewelBuzz presented the WOMEN OF VISION AWARDS 2025 at GJS Diwali Edition September 18 2025 . This celeberation was about honouring 15 visionary women, empowered women of the GJ industry.
The Chief Guest Manisha Gupta, Commodities Editor -at CNBC-TV18 presented the awards to the worthy winners along with Rajesh Rokde, Chairman GJC, Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman GJC, Saiyam Mehra, IPC- GJC and Convenor GJS, Nitin Khandelwal, Past Chairman, GJC, Vivek Kabra, Founder and Publisher- JewelBuzz, Ashika Kabra, Co-Founder, JewelBuzz.
Speaking on the occasion, Manisha Gupta said, “I am delighted and overwhelmed to be here with all these empowered women.These women are an inspiration to all- and true champions. The GJC Women’s Wing is a move in the right direction. I will be glad to contribute in any I can to the GJC Women’s Wing.”
Rajesh Rokde, Chairman GJC, said “The WOV Awards are GJC’s tribute to empowered and visionary women in the gems and jewellery industry. More than ever, women are demonstrating exemplary leadership and driving their organizations to new heights. WOV Awards is our salute to their strength, inspiration and power of transformation.”
The glittering galaxy of award winners included:
Vandana Bhayyaji Rokde, Director -Rokde Jewels – Nagpur
With 25 years in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Vandana Rokde has been instrumental in leading the old gold division at Rokde Jewellers, overseeing operations across seven branches and spearheading its digital transformation. As the first woman in her family to join the business, she broke barriers in a male-dominated industry and continues to empower women through training and leadership opportunities. Her efforts have strengthened both processes and people, contributing to the brand’s expansion into gold, diamond, silver jewellery, and gifting.
Shital Subhash Dhomne, Director – MTD Jewellers – Wardha
With over 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Shital Subhash Dhomne plays a pivotal role as Director of MTD Jewellers. She is actively involved in day-to-day inventory management and contributes strategically to the overall growth and direction of the company. Under her leadership, MTD has expanded its footprint with a new branch in Hinganghat and introduced a new brand, LOTUS, at Urich Mall, Wardha. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has helped steer the business toward sustained success. In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with Navbharat’s Powerful Woman Award.
Neha Shah, Director -Chandukaka Saraf – Kolhapur
Mrs. Neha Kishorkumar Shah is a leading force behind Chandukaka Saraf & Sons Pvt. Ltd., a legacy jewellery brand with roots dating back over 199 years in Baramati. Inspired by her father, Late Sheth Nemchand Hirachand Shah (Mumbai), and father-in-law, Late Sheth Jindtta Chandulal Shah (Baramati), she upholds a tradition of purity, trust, and excellence in gold craftsmanship.
Vandana Saraf, Director, Aisshpra Gems and Jewels– Lucknow
Vandana Saraf is a creative force and visionary leader in the jewellery industry. As the first woman in the Saraf family to take on a leadership role, she has been instrumental in the transformation of Hari Prasad Gopi Krishna Saraf into the modern brand Aisshpra Gems & Jewels. With a keen eye for design, she has led key initiatives in marketing, merchandising, and manpower, while nurturing the next generation of leadership within her family. Vandana is also deeply involved in CSR and social initiatives, and balances her time between business, family, and creative exploration through travel.
Varuna D Jani – Mumbai, Founder and Creative Director -Varuna D Jani Fine Jewellery
Renowned for her avant-garde style, Varuna D Jani blends 1920s glamour with modern luxury to craft haute couture jewellery. Born into the iconic Popley family, she carries forward a legacy of fine craftsmanship through her brand, redefining how women wear their dreams.Her versatile creations have been adorned by icons like Kareena Kapoor, Sushmita Sen, and Zeenat Aman, and featured in collaborations with Audi and Falguni & Shane Peacock. Celebrated globally, she has received multiple awards for her creativity, brand leadership, and design excellence.
Vandana Jagwani, Creative Director, Mahesh Notandass Fine Jewellery – Mumbai
Vandana Jagwani is a luxury industry leader and sustainability advocate, best known for founding Vandals—India’s first designer brand for lab-grown diamond jewellery. As Creative Director at Mahesh Notandass, she’s modernizing a legacy brand with innovation and purpose.
Named in the LuxeBook Top 50 (2024), Vandana champions eco-conscious design, AR-powered retail, and women’s entrepreneurship. She blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge tech to build brands rooted in beauty, responsibility, and progress.
Seema Kothari, Director- of Karan Kothari Jewellers -Nagpur”
Seema Kothari is a visionary business leader and social advocate, heading one of Vidarbha’s most trusted jewellery brands. She blends tradition with innovation, expanding Karan Kothari Jewellers across Nagpur, Yavatmal, and Chandrapur. Known for her commitment to ethical business and authentic craftsmanship, Seema also champions education and empowerment—having adopted four schools and led numerous women-focused initiatives.
Hema Shah, Creative Head House of Sparsh – Mumbai
Hema Suken Shah brings over 9 years of creative leadership to House of Sparsh, where she leads design, content, and brand strategy. Known for blending tradition with trend, she introduced innovations like pastel jadau, nature-inspired motifs, and Vedic-inspired wearable art for Gen Z. Her standout collections — Twilight and Tutti Fruity Cappuccino — reflect her bold, contemporary aesthetic. An advocate for ethical sourcing and artisan welfare, Hema has received accolades including the IJ Awards, GJEPC Brilliant Bharat Award, and The Artisan Award.
Chhaya Jain, Founder & Creative Director, Sensuel Jewels – Mumbai
In 2011, she co-founded Sensuel Jewels with her brothers, scaling it from a 20-member team to 250+. She has worked with leading jewellery houses such as Tanishq, TBZ, Mehta & Sons, and Khanna Jewellers, holding roles from Design Head to Product Developer.
Durga Tulsyan,Director, TJ Impex – Mumbai
With 17 years at T J Impex, Durga Tulsyan has shaped the company into a trusted partner for jewellery retailers across India, specializing in diamond manufacturing and innovative collections. She leads design, production, quality control, marketing, and client engagement, empowering family jewellers with certified, ready inventory.
Anju Talla,Director-Talla Jewellers, Jammu
With over 10 years in the jewellery industry, Mrs. Anju Talla leads product innovation and customer relationship management at Talla Jewellers. She has introduced lightweight gold and diamond jewellery and revitalised the company’s silver jewellery line—an often-overlooked segment. These initiatives have significantly strengthened customer trust and engagement. Kind supporter of GJC & GJS initiative as a buyer at the shows from past 13 years, strong hand at Talla Jewellers.
Kamana Jobanputra, Co-Founder & Executive Director – Sequel Logistics Private Limited– Bengaluru
With over 20 years in logistics, Kamana leads business development and client growth at Sequel Logistics, driving its rise as a market leader in precious logistics. She has aligned the company with global standards (LBMA, RJC, TAPA) and champions sustainability through EV fleet integration. Committed to social impact, she supports education initiatives and fosters a people-first culture built on trust and learning. Under her leadership, Sequel has earned multiple awards, including Best Logistics Service Provider at the India Gold Conference for 11 years.
Suhani Garg, Founder, Nishani Studio– Jaipur
Suhani Garg is the creative mind behind Nishani Studio, India’s first truly customizable jewellery brand. She leads design, product strategy, and brand storytelling—pioneering modular jewellery with mix-and-match chains, locks, and charms. Her vision transforms jewellery from a static accessory into a personal narrative, empowering women to express themselves through evolving designs. Recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2025), Suhani blends innovation, craftsmanship, and community engagement to build a deeply connected customer base.
Disha Pokharna,Creative Head – Product & Merchandising,Pure Platinum – Mumbai
A trailblazer in platinum design, Disha Pokharna leads innovation and merchandising at Pure Platinum, curating contemporary collections that blend craftsmanship with storytelling. She’s behind standout launches like Zulu, celebrating women’s strength, and has expanded the brand into luxury men’s accessories with unique designs and advanced techniques. Recognized as a Next Gen GJS Member and speaker at the GJC Women Entrepreneurs Seminar (2024), Disha Pokharna continues the legacy of her father, Mr. Vijay Pokharna at Pure Platinum.
Shradha Keshri,Director of Operations -Hira Panna Jewellers-Patna
With 44 years in the business, Shradha Keshri oversees all aspects of operations at Hira Panna Jewellers, from supply chain and sales to marketing and finance. She has implemented structured workflows, digital tools, and strong SOPs to ensure efficiency and consistency across departments. A pioneer in Bihar’s jewellery industry, Shradha has elevated the brand’s reputation for professionalism and trust, while driving modern retail practices and customer-centric innovation. She led the launch of EcoFacets – Lab Grown Diamonds, introducing sustainable luxury to the region.
The awardees- an eclectic mix of designers, members of their companies’ leadership, creative directors and more-are not just achievers; they are catalysts of change, architects of transformation, and torchbearers of progress. With their courage, wisdom, and unwavering spirit, they uplift communities, shape industries, and inspire the next generation of women to take up leadership.
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India’s Jewellery Exports Targeted At USD 100 Billion: WGC
Over The Next 5 To 7 Years, Nearly 20 To 25% Of India’s Gold Consumption Could Come From Domestic Mines.
The 14th edition of the Delhi Jewellery & Gem Fair (DJGF) 2026, organised by Informa Markets in India, concluded at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, brought together 650+ exhibitors, 3,000+ jewellery brands and 150,000+ designs under one roof. The three-day B2B exhibition, held from September 26–28, 2026, witnessed participation from jewellery manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, distributors, exporters and allied industry professionals from across India.
The grand expo was inaugurated by esteemed dignitaries including Chief Guest, Shri Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Pramod Derawala, Chairman, NJGCI ; Sachin Jain, Regional CEO-India, World Gold Council; Ramavtar Verma, Chairman, TBJA; Naveen Kumar Jindal, Senior Chairman, TBJA; Pankaj Arora, National President, AIJGF; David Lynn, CEO, inD; alongside Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India; and Pallavi Mehra, Senior Group Director, Informa Markets in India.
Addressing the need to strengthen the competitiveness and export potential of the jewellery industry, Shri Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, said:
“India’s gems and jewellery sector exports approximately Rs 2.5 lakh crore worth of goods against imports of around Rs 1.65 lakh crore, reflecting its strong export orientation and contribution to the country’s trade. As we work towards the government’s 2030 export ambitions, the industry must strengthen the journey from ‘Vocal for Local’ to ‘Local to Global’ through investment, skill development and greater value addition.
Equally important is recognising and upskilling our artisans, whose craftsmanship directly contributes to product quality and global competitiveness. Building their capabilities will help Indian jewellery become more competitive and strengthen its presence across international markets.”
Highlighting the growth opportunities for India’s jewellery sector and the need to strengthen the value chain, Pramod Derawala, Chairman, National Jewellery & Gemstone Council of India (NJGCI), said:
“India’s jewellery sector has significant growth potential across manufacturing and exports, supported by government initiatives and greater market access through FTAs. Countries with which India has signed FTAs import nearly USD 55 billion worth of jewellery, while India’s share is around USD 8 billion, indicating considerable scope for expansion. Rising gold prices are also shifting consumer preferences towards lightweight jewellery, while over 90% of high-value jewellery purchases continue through physical retail.
As the industry adapts and grows, strengthening value addition and ensuring better livelihoods and social security for skilled workers must remain a priority. Platforms such as the Delhi Jewellery and Gems Fair help bring the industry together to strengthen the ecosystem and support sustainable growth.”
Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council said:
“India’s gold and jewellery industry has significant opportunities ahead as the country progresses towards Viksit Bharat 2047, with the economy expected to grow from USD 4.5 trillion to USD 30 trillion. India is already the world’s leading gold jewellery market, and the Swarnim Udaan 2047 roadmap outlines the industry’s growth potential. Over the next 5 to 7 years, nearly 20 to 25% of India’s gold consumption could come from domestic mines, while jewellery exports are targeted at USD 100 billion. With nearly 31,000 tonnes of gold held by Indian households and a median age of 28 years, financialization, innovation and evolving consumer demand can unlock greater economic value.
Platforms such as the Delhi Jewellery and Gems Fair encourage industry collaboration and knowledge exchange, helping strengthen India’s capabilities to serve and shape the global jewellery market.”
Highlighting the business opportunities emerging from the platform, Ramavtar Verma, Chairman, The Bullion & Jewellers Association (TBJA), said:
“With nearly 600 to 650 exhibitors bringing together gold, diamond, silver and specialised jewellery alongside technology and industry solutions, DJGF reflects the scale and diversity of India’s jewellery trade. Such platforms are increasingly important for generating business opportunities, strengthening sourcing and trade networks, and connecting manufacturers, retailers, craftsmen and brands. The integration of design, technology and craftsmanship will be critical as the industry responds to changing consumer preferences and builds new avenues for growth.”
Speaking about the structure and business realities of India’s jewellery sector, Naveen Kumar Jindal, Senior Chairman, The Bullion & Jewellers Association (TBJA), said:
“India’s jewellery industry has a substantial unorganised base, with Delhi alone having nearly 45,000 to 50,000 people working in this segment, while the gold artisan workforce across the country is estimated at around 5 lakh. With margins in the volume business as low as 1.5 to 2%, jewellers need to continuously focus on design, craftsmanship, affordability and operational efficiency. Exhibitions such as DJGF, with participation from India and overseas, provide access to new designs, products and ideas that can help businesses remain competitive and identify new growth opportunities.”
Focusing on greater representation for small and medium-sized jewellers, Pankaj Arora, National President, All India Jewellers & Goldsmith Federation (AIJGF), said:
“Over the past five years, we have worked consistently to bring the concerns and business realities of small and medium-sized jewellers to the forefront. It is important that their challenges are adequately represented in discussions with the government and reflected in the policy ecosystem. Platforms such as DJGF further strengthen industry dialogue by bringing stakeholders together and giving businesses an opportunity to collectively discuss issues that affect their growth.”
Speaking on India’s growing role in the global jewellery market, David Lynn, CEO, inD, said:
“India combines strong consumer demand, manufacturing depth and craftsmanship with an increasingly global outlook. The country exported USD 27.7 billion of gems and jewellery in 2025-26, with the UAE alone accounting for USD 8.7 billion, while studded gold jewellery exports grew 60% and silver jewellery exports by more than 50%. As high gold prices shift demand towards lightweight, studded and design-led jewellery, the opportunity lies in creating greater value through design, technology, craftsmanship and stronger brands. With international buyers from 14 countries participating at DJGF, the platform is helping connect India’s manufacturing capabilities with new buyers, markets and business opportunities globally.”
Speaking on the occasion, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, said:
DJGF 2026 reflects these evolving market dynamics by bringing together a diverse jewellery and allied industry ecosystem, creating opportunities for businesses to discover new collections, explore technology and manufacturing solutions and engage with potential partners. With its focus on sourcing, retail, innovation and knowledge exchange, the exhibition provides a platform for the industry to respond to changing demand while identifying new avenues for business growth and collaboration.”
Commenting on changing consumer preferences amid sustained high gold prices, Atul Jain, General Secretary, Delhi Jewellers Association, said:
“Consumers have largely absorbed the higher gold prices, but buying behaviour has clearly evolved, with more than 50% of retail business now coming through old gold jewellery exchange. Demand is shifting towards lightweight designs with lower gold weight or caratage, while coloured gemstones are seeing wider acceptance and design remains central to purchase decisions.
Gen Y and Gen Z are increasingly gravitating towards minimalistic jewellery, while global fashion trends are reaching markets such as India, China and New York almost simultaneously through digital influence. Indian manufacturing today is at par with the best globally, and we expect DJGF to reflect the same standards of design, innovation and craftsmanship seen at leading international jewellery shows.”
Carrying forward its 14-year legacy as the region’s quintessential B2B market platform, DJGF 2026 has reaffirmed its iconic status as the “Apna Delhi Wala Show.” Perfectly timed ahead of the upcoming festive and wedding buying rush, this year’s edition delivers an expanded buyer program and unprecedented product diversity to empower Northern India’s retail ecosystem.
DJGF 2026 continues to receive strong support from leading regional and national trade associations, including The Bullion & Jewellers Association Delhi (TBJA), Karol Bagh Jewellers Association, Delhi Jewellers Association, Mumbai Wholesale Gold Jewellers Association, Maliwara Jewellers Association, Dariba Jewellers Association, All India Jewellers & Goldsmith Federation (AIJGF), and Gurugram Jewellers Association, further reinforcing its credibility and trade reach across the ecosystem.
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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.