The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) played host to the Aarya Awards 2026 in honor of International Women’s Day. The evening honored inspirational people who have made significant contributions to society from a variety of backgrounds.

The Parichay Foundation, led by Dr. Rosalin Patasani Mishra, organized the event. Her commitment to cultural and social service projects empowers communities and promotes positive change.

Renowned choreographer Avirup Sengupta and his gifted group gave a beautiful and captivating dance performance to kick off the ceremony. Avirup Sengupta, who is renowned for his expressive storytelling through dance and artistic depth, captivated the audience once more with a performance that masterfully combined rhythm, emotion, and cultural richness. He is well-known in the cultural community for his dedication to the arts and his ongoing work with young actors and children with special needs.

Filmmaker Shrestha Ganguly was one of the notable individuals honored that evening. Shrestha Ganguly has steadily established herself in the film and creative arts industries thanks to her imaginative vision and poignant storytelling. Sensitivity, nuance, and a powerful voice for modern narratives are all evident in her work.

In addition to making films, Shrestha Ganguly has actively participated in campaigns to raise awareness of mental health and artistic expression. She has been promoting discussion and artistic involvement about social understanding and emotional well-being through her platform, Florence. She is an inspiring voice among today’s female creators because of her devotion to socially conscious themes and storytelling.

The Aarya Awards ceremony honored people whose work continues to inspire society and open the door to a more contemplative and imaginative future. It was a celebration of talent, resiliency, and leadership.

Priyanka  Dutta