Speaker: Suhel Seth and Journalist Anuradha Sengupta
Venue: Taj Bengal
At this Ladies Study Group session held on July 23rd 2026, Suhel Seth sat down with journalist Anuradha Sengupta. Together, they explored what it means to be "Brand India" today.
Seth traced the idea of "Brand India" across four historical phases. These were the pre-independence era, the early decades of socialism and license-raj policies, the liberalization years of the 1990s, and the current period under Prime Minister Modi. He argued that India's ancient civilizational wealth was eroded by colonial exploitation. It was further weakened by decades of restrictive economic policy, before the 1991 reforms opened the path to global integration.
On the present day, Seth highlighted India's demographic dividend as a major strength. At the same time, he cautioned that unemployment and a strained education system remain serious challenges. He spoke about a new sense of confidence among Indians globally, contrasting it with the diffidence of earlier decades. He also acknowledged concerns about how that confidence sometimes translates into insensitivity abroad.
The conversation touched on India's standing on the world stage. This included its evolving relationships with the US, Israel, and the Middle East, questions around its traditional role as a voice for the Global South, and the balancing act required in foreign policy. Seth shared personal anecdotes from his interactions with policymakers, including reflections on demonetization and direct benefit transfer reforms. He was critical of what he sees as India's weak arbitration and dispute-resolution systems, which he linked to investor hesitation.
He also spoke about tourism as one of the standout successes of recent years. He shared personal reflections on parenting, social responsibility, and the need for systemic — not just political — change, urging accountability starting at an individual level.
Education, Seth said, remains the only way to truly raise the bar for Brand India.
The session concluded with an engaging audience Q&A, where Seth fielded questions on political accountability, civic systems, and youth protests — maintaining his characteristically sharp, witty, and unfiltered style throughout.
Suhel ended with these lines, praising a Brand India that will only rise further: "Learn to open the door. Either let people in, or throw them out."
Speaker: Imtiaz Ali, Renowned Film Director, Screenwriter & Producer
Venue: ITC Royal Bengal
An intimate conversation with acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, moderated by actress Ritabhari Chakraborty, on 9th July 2026 at ITC Royal Bengal, was opened warmly, by him expressing his fondness for Kolkata and crediting and tracing his journey from a childhood in Jamshedpur through theatre in Delhi to filmmaking, reflecting along the way on his parents' quiet pride in his work and his close, storytelling bond with his daughter.
Much of the conversation centred on his recent Partition-themed film, "Main Waapas Aaunga". He also spoke about his collaborations with actors such as Ranbir Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh and composers like A.R. Rahman, who directed the music in his recent film, encouraged him to trust his own directorial instincts even in selecting music.
Imtiaz Ali closed on a personal note; sharing how over the years, he has come to deeply love them Rabindranath Tagore's poetry and songs— a fitting close to an evening steeped in Bengal's culture of art and storytelling.
Speaker: Princess Diya Kumari
Venue: ITC Sonar
Marking its Diamond Jubilee and sixty years of devoted service, the Ladies Study Group, under the leadership of President Ms Enu Johal Bala, hosted its prestigious Charitable Trust Annual Award Ceremony 2026 on the evocative theme "Legacy & Leadership." The occasion stood as a graceful tribute to institutions and individuals whose steadfast commitment has left an enduring imprint on society, while also reflecting the organisation's own remarkable journey of compassion, service and social responsibility.
The ceremony opened with a deeply moving inclusive dance presentation, "Breaking Barriers," choreographed by the celebrated Manipuri exponent Priti Patel and performed alongside students from the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy IICP. The performance was both artistic and symbolic, beautifully embodying the ideals of inclusion, resilience and empowerment, while also honouring the long and meaningful association between IICP and the Ladies Study Group.
A central highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Ladies Study Group Charitable Trust Annual Award 2026 to Autism Society West Bengal, in recognition of its exceptional work in empowering individuals on the autism spectrum and supporting their families. The award was received by Indrani Basu, Founder and Director of the organisation. Since its establishment in 2002, Autism Society West Bengal has been a tireless advocate for inclusive education, therapy, vocational training and awareness, transforming lives through a compassionate and community-based approach that has brought dignity, opportunity and hope to countless families.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the distinguished Board of Jurors whose discerning judgment upheld the integrity and prestige of an award that has, since 1975, honoured exemplary charitable organisations for their outstanding contribution to society. Their role reaffirmed the seriousness and credibility of the recognition, which continues to celebrate excellence in service and philanthropy.
In keeping with its enduring commitment to social welfare, the Ladies Study Group also reflected on its philanthropic work over the past year, including donations of approximately ₹25 lakh to organisations engaged in women's empowerment, education, healthcare, skill development and community welfare. The programme further reaffirmed its support for deserving nursing students through the Shanti Khaitan Award, which provides financial assistance to underprivileged young women pursuing nursing education and building futures of independence and service.
The event was graced by Smt Diya Kumari, Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, whose distinguished public life, dedication to heritage conservation and commitment to women's empowerment resonated deeply with the spirit of the evening. She was joined by Jaiveer Johal, noted entrepreneur, art patron and philanthropist, whose work in promoting Indian art, traditional craftsmanship and sustainable enterprise has earned wide respect.
Their conversation on stage added intellectual depth and warmth to the celebration. Mr Johal posed thoughtful questions to Smt Diya Kumari about her decision to enter politics despite her earlier commitments to schools and charitable work, and about the ways in which she has identified women with varied skills, trained them, opened centres for them and connected them to markets. He also asked how original craft traditions might be preserved, how such initiatives could be expanded through collaboration between the private sector and government, and how Rajasthan might further strengthen its tourism potential. In response, she spoke of the development of the Shekhawati region, the importance of connectivity and hospitality across different parts of Rajasthan, and her vision of encouraging tourists to remain longer and experience the state more fully.
The evening continued with questions from the audience, offering further insight into Smt Diya Kumari's work and outlook. She spoke about her involvement with Modi ji's Catch the Rain initiative and fondly reflected on the close and affectionate working relationship she shares with her children through the foundation, describing their efforts as a family endeavour rooted in shared purpose and service.
The 2026 Charitable Trust Annual Award Ceremony thus emerged as a fitting and elegant celebration of the Ladies Study Group's six-decade legacy of compassion, leadership and service. It reaffirmed the organisation's unwavering commitment to recognising excellence, empowering communities and inspiring meaningful social change. The evening concluded with Vice President Ms Ritu Almal expressing heartfelt gratitude to the chief guest Smt Diya Kumari and Mr Jaiveer Johal for their extraordinary and enriching conversation, after which Ms Preeti Goenka was invited on stage to present tokens of appreciation.
Speaker: Nityanand Charan Das
Venue: New Kenilworth Hotel
Ms. Enu Johar Bala, President of The Ladies Study Group, was honoured to host an inspiring spiritual session on 10th June 2026 with His Grace Nityanand Charan Das, esteemed spiritual counsellor, author, and Convenor of ISKCON. A practicing monk for over two decades and a disciple of His Holiness Radhanath Swami, Maharaj captivated the audience with his profound wisdom, humility, and practical insights into spiritual living.
The evening commenced with His Grace leading the gathering in the chanting of a sacred mantra and expressing his joy at being in Kolkata. Drawing from the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, he spoke about the challenges of the present age, which the scriptures describe as an age of distractions. He explained how, despite being endowed with free will and superior intelligence, human beings often move away from their core values, leading to loneliness, dissatisfaction, and an increasing sense of disconnection.
His Grace emphasized that true happiness cannot be attained through the mere pursuit of desires but through conscious living and selfless sharing. Referring to the Bhagavad Gita as the manual and helpline for human life, he explained that lasting fulfillment comes from following the path of karma and living in harmony with divine principles.
He encouraged members to embrace Lord Krishna’s teachings through four simple yet powerful practices: A for Association, B for Books, C for Chanting, and D for Diet. These, he explained, help individuals remain connected to God and cultivate a positive and resilient mindset in the face of life’s challenges.
Speaking about the mind, His Grace explained the Sanskrit word manas and highlighted that one of the most effective ways to control and purify the mind is through the chanting of mantras. His engaging discourse, enriched with inspiring anecdotes—including stories from the life of legendary tennis player Arthur Ashe—kept the audience deeply engrossed throughout the evening.
The session concluded with a few serene moments of collective chanting, leaving participants with a sense of peace, reflection, and spiritual upliftment.
On behalf of The Ladies Study Group, Vice President Ms. Ritu Almal expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Grace Nityanand Charan Das for sharing his invaluable wisdom and insights. She then invited Ms. Madhu Neotia, a member of the Governing Body, to present a token of appreciation to His Grace as a gesture of the organization’s gratitude and respect.
The evening proved to be a truly enriching experience, inspiring members to incorporate the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita into their daily lives and reaffirming the importance of spiritual connection in today’s fast-paced world.
Speaker: Major General DK Singh & Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa and Eminent Journalist Barkha Dutt
Venue: Taj Bengal
The evening brought together distinguished voices from India's armed forces and members of the Ladies Study Group for an evening of insight and inspiration.
Guests were welcomed by an energetic military band, setting the tone for the evening. President Enu Bala opened the session with a warm address. Major General DK Singh followed, speaking on global conflicts and the strategic importance of India's Northeast.
Eminent journalist Barkha Dutt then took the stage. She engaged Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa in a compelling conversation on India's military capabilities, global tensions, and Operation Sindoor. The evening concluded with a lively interactive Q&A session.
Speaker: Hon’ble Justice Mr B R Gavai (Retd. Former chief justice of India)
Venue: JW Marriott, Kolkata
The Indian Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Young Leaders Forum, LSG, and Fox & Mandal as Knowledge Partner, hosted an exclusive session on “Indian legal system: Investors’ confidence & EODB.”
The session featured Hon’ble Justice Mr B R Gavai (Retd.), Former Chief Justice of India, who shared insights on the role of India’s legal framework in strengthening investor trust, improving ease of doing business, and supporting a more transparent business environment.
The event was held on 17th April from 6:00 PM onwards, followed by dinner at JW Marriott, Kolkata.
Speaker: Shatrughan Sinha and Juhi Babbar Soni
Venue: Taj Bengal
The Ladies Study Group 60th year began in spectacular style on 6th April 2026 at Taj Bengal with “Legacy & Legend,” with the installation of the President 2026-27, Enu Johal Bala. The evening was anchored by a deeply engaging conversation with the legendary actor Shatrughan Sinha, in dialogue with theatre personality Juhi Babbar Soni. From evocative memories of his early cinematic journey to his candid reflections as a parliamentarian and his strong anti-tobacco advocacy, Shatrughan ji’s presence defined the evening.
The ceremony commenced with the traditional lamp lighting by Chairperson Ms. Preeti Goenka, followed by a specially curated 60th commemorative video tracing LSG’s remarkable legacy. The celebration culminated with a spirited performance the iconic singer Usha Uthup, marking a grand and unforgettable beginning to this milestone year.
