On the eve of International Women’s Day, the Kolkata Press Club became a beacon of inspiration as it hosted the prestigious Samajer Sera Nari Samman 2026. Organized by the All Bengal Men’s Forum (ABMF), the event was a vibrant tribute to the indomitable spirit of women who have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also acted as catalysts for social change.

The ceremony brought together a diverse group of achievers, ranging from veteran scientists and classical dancers to grassroots social activists and entrepreneurs. The atmosphere was one of profound respect and collective empowerment, highlighting the evolving narrative of gender equality in West Bengal.

A Galaxy of Achievers

The honors were distributed across three primary categories, each representing a different facet of leadership and resilience:

Serar Sera: This top honor was conferred upon Alokananda Roy, the renowned classical dancer and social reformer, celebrated for her transformative work using dance therapy.

Samajer Sera Nari: This category recognized stalwarts across various industries, including Prof. Manoshi Roy Chowdhury (Chairperson, Techno India Group), Lopamudra Mitra (Renowned Singer), IPS Shanti Das (Law Enforcement), Dr. Tanya Das (Veteran Scientist), Rupa Majumder (Publisher & Writer), and other distinguished figures in journalism, law, and environmental science.

Swayam Siddha: Dedicated to self-made achievers, this award recognized the entrepreneurial and professional grit of individuals like Srovonti Bandyopadhyay and Mousumi Kanjilal.

More Than Just an Award

The event served as a powerful reminder that “womanhood” is not a monolith. By honoring a psychologist alongside a cosmetologist, and an advocate alongside a singer, ABMF underscored the importance of diverse contributions to the fabric of society.

In a world where barriers still exist, the Samajer Sera Nari Samman acts as more than just a ceremony; it is a platform that amplifies voices and provides role models for the next generation of girls in Bengal and beyond. As the evening concluded, the message was clear: when women lead, society thrives.

Priyanka Dutta