The 15th edition of JFW’s Annual Achievers Awards was a dazzling celebration of South India’s finest talent across fields. Held on August 2 at the Chennai Trade Centre, the evening was marked by star-studded presence, energetic hosting, and a spirit of recognition that resonated throughout the hall. Actor Simran was among the many luminaries in attendance, and the event kicked off with an enthusiastic ensemble of anchors, setting the tone for a truly memorable night. An unforgettable evening, made possible by the support of our title sponsor VBJ Since 1900 (Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers), powered by Mrithu Towels from Ramraj and co-presented by Lia Agarbatti and Adissia Developers.
The visionaries behind it all
Heading the show were JFW’s co-founders, Bina Sujit and Sujit Kumar, complementing each other in coordinated hues of grey, black, and blue. Bina looked radiant in a deep grey high-neck Anarkali, while Sujit opted for a sleek semi-formal look.
Speaking about this year’s lineup of awardees, Bina stated:
“Each year we take a lot of effort and care to choose our awardees. The JFW Achievers Awards has not only been a platform to celebrate the journey of successful women, but the awards also inspire millions of other women and give them hope to dream big. This year there was a special focus on inclusivity as we feel even in today’s evolved times there is a lack of sensitivity for the transgender community.”
Sujit reflected on JFW’s evolution since its inception in 2008:
“It was in 2008 that we hosted the very first edition of the JFW Achievers Awards. At that time, conversations around women empowerment and equal opportunity were almost non-existent in mainstream media or public forums. But Bina and I believed strongly that this initiative would spark a much-needed shift in how society views women and their achievements.
Today, as we step into the 15th year, JFW has grown into South India’s leading digital platform for women. With a digital reach of 70 million, 72% of whom are women, and an audience base where 80% fall between the age group of 18–44, our content continues to inspire and empower. With close to 100 million video views, we take pride in telling untold stories from across South India — stories of strength, resilience, and success.”
The dynamic hosts
Anchors Archana Chandoke and Mohamed Kuraishi brought unmatched energy to the evening, effortlessly keeping the momentum high from start to finish. With their impeccable comic timing, quick-witted banter, and genuine camaraderie, the duo laced the ceremony with humour, spontaneity, and heart. Whether it was playfully engaging with the audience, improvising between segments, or bringing out the personalities of the awardees during interactions, Archana and Kuraishi ensured there was never a dull moment.
THE AWARDEES
Swati Jagdish – Digital Changemaker Award
Honoured for transforming conversations around sex education in India, Swati Jagdish received the Digital Changemaker Award for her inclusive, value-based approach blending science, storytelling, and empathy. She was presented the award by Mana Anandavel, a 79 year old athlete and a past JFW awardee. Her segment, featuring her daughter asking her questions on stage, had the audience in collective adoration.
Kalki Subramaniam – Excellence in Social Service Award
Trailblazing activist and artist Kalki Subramaniam was celebrated for her relentless work in uplifting India’s transgender community through advocacy, education, and creativity. Presented the award by actress Pavithra Lakshmi and Kameela Nasser, Kalki delivered a stirring speech that shed light on the harsh realities faced by the trans community, urging continued action and awareness.
Lalith Renu (Kutty Trekker) – Young Achiever Award
At just 6 years old, S. Lalith Renu has completed over 30 treks across India, including Everest Base Camp. Her courage and curiosity were celebrated with the Young Achiever Award, presented by Anupama Vriksham, a previous JFW Awardee. Known for her trekking feats, Lalith charmed the audience by also sharing her fascination for different herbs in a fun chat with her family and the anchors.
Aishwarya Lekshmi – Powerhouse Performer Award
Recognised for her fearless performances and unwavering commitment to meaningful, female-led storytelling, Aishwarya Lekshmi received the Powerhouse Performer Award. Presented by iconic actor Nasser and Sky Sundaraj (on behalf of Ramraj Cotton) Aishwarya stunned in a white satin gown with a mesh overlay and emerald drop earrings, lighting up the JFW stage.
Kumari Sachu – Lifetime Achievement Award
Kumari Sachu
A legend in Indian cinema, Kumari Sachu was honoured for her illustrious seven-decade-long career across film, theatre, and television. The award was presented by Anand Babu and actress Vadivukarasi, who reflected on her enduring charm and legacy. The audience was moved by an AI-generated video message from the late actress Saroja Devi congratulating Sachu. A fun segment followed, with Khureshi mimicking yesteryear stars like MGR and Sivaji Ganesan as Sachu guessed the impersonations. She later joined Anand Babu for a short but delightful dance number.
Saindhavi – Excellence in Music Award
Saindhavi
For her soulful contributions across genres in South Indian music, Saindhavi was presented the Excellence in Music Award. Her unique ability to balance classical and playback singing with timeless grace was rightfully applauded. Along with presenter and singer Srinivas and actor and playback singer Yugendran, Saindhavi captivated the audience with her sweet voice as she performed live on stage.
Loyola College
A bold step in the direction of inclusivity, Loyola College was honoured with the Special Recognition Award for appointing Tamil Nadu’s first transwoman professor—an inspiring milestone in Indian academia. The award was presented by film director and screenwriter Mohan Raja, followed by speeches from Principal Rev. Dr. Louis Arockiaraj, trans professor Dr. N. Jency, and Head of the English Department Dr. Mary Vidya. They spoke about the need for inclusivity and the upliftment of the transgender community through education, expressing hope that more legacy institutions will follow suit in becoming changemakers.
Deepa Venkat – Excellence in Dubbing Award
Deepa Venkat
Deepa Venkat was awarded for her remarkable work in dubbing, giving voice to some of South Indian cinema’s most memorable female characters. Actress Simran and Adissia Developers CMD M.V. Manikandan presented the award. In a lively on-stage moment, Deepa dubbed a scene live as Simran lip-synced one of her iconic film dialogues. Dressed in the same elegant blue silk saree she wore at her wedding, Deepa’s presence was both nostalgic and iconic.
Devayani – Excellence in Entertainment Award
Devayani
With a career filled with unforgettable performances, Devayani was honoured for portraying strong, emotionally resonant women in both film and television. Her longtime friend and director Tiruselvam Velusamy presented the award. A touching surprise followed when Devayani’s daughter, Iniyaa Kumaran, joined her on stage, creating a heartwarming family moment.
Bharathi Baskar – Excellence in Public Speaking Award
Bharathi Baskar
Celebrated orator Bharathi Baskar was recognised for revolutionising Tamil public speaking with her intelligence, humour, and fearless voice. Journalist Rangaraj Pandey presented the award and engaged in a spirited discussion about the 2026 state elections:
“The DMK might have strong chances to come back, but it is yet to be seen how the other parties perform. Anything can happen even in the last minute,” he said.
Priyanka Deshpande – Excellence in Television Entertainment Award
Priyanka Deshpande
The grand finale of the evening featured the ever-vivacious Priyanka Deshpande receiving the Excellence in Television Entertainment Award from her two closest friends, food blogger Irfan and DJ Black. The surprise presentation was filled with love and gratitude, as the duo spoke about how Priyanka had supported and uplifted them through thick and thin.
A Night to Remember
The 15th JFW Achievers Awards not only celebrated success, it spotlighted strength, amplified voices, and broke new ground in inclusivity and storytelling. With each winner, the message was clear: South India’s women (and allies) are not just shaping the future, they’re leading it.
