On February 2, 2025, women from across District 3234-H1 gathered at Hotel Regenta in Nagpur for ‘Womaniya’ – a symposium celebrating women’s achievements and potential. With its tagline ‘The future is feminist,’ the event brought together both Lions and non-Lion women for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection.
The symposium balanced entertainment with empowerment, featuring competitions that showcased diverse talents. Women participated enthusiastically in singing, dancing, bridal makeup artistry, and a vibrant fashion show. The cooking competition filled the venue with enticing aromas, while the flower arrangement contest transformed spaces with creative displays.
“We wanted to create an event that celebrates women’s many dimensions,” explained Dr. Kalindi Rane, District Coordinator for New Voices, who spearheaded the initiative. “Women are artists, professionals, entrepreneurs, and visionaries – we designed Womaniya to honour all these aspects.”
A particularly meaningful component was the exhibition featuring home-based women entrepreneurs. Stalls displayed beautiful sarees, jewelry, and handcrafted items including traditional rangoli and toran decorations. The exhibition highlighted the economic potential of women’s creativity, particularly exemplified by a popular stall from the remote Gadchiroli region, featuring intricate bamboo crafts made by local women.
“Providing this platform was essential,” noted Sonali Shrawane, District Chairperson – Women’s Empowerment. “These artisans create remarkable work but often lack visibility. Watching them connect with customers and receive recognition was deeply rewarding.”
The symposium featured two keynote speakers who captivated the audience. Advocate Dr. Kshitija Wadatkar, a distinguished High Court lawyer from Mumbai recognized by Forbes magazine, addressed “Challenges for women on the path of becoming self-reliant.” Her practical insights resonated with women navigating professional barriers.
Dr. Sapna Sharma, an ophthalmologist who transitioned to counselling, delivered a thought-provoking talk on ‘Women Empowerment: Good, Bad Ugly!’ Her nuanced perspective sparked meaningful conversations that continued throughout the day.
District leaders showed strong support, with District Governor Dr. Ripal Rane, Vice District Governors Bharat Bhalgat and Vilas Sakhare, and PDG Balbir Singh Vij in attendance.
The impact extended beyond the day itself. “We’re already seeing interest in forming two women-only Lions Clubs as a direct result of Womaniya,” shared Anagha Vaidhya, District Chairperson – Family & Women Empowerment. “This represents the true success of our event – inspiring more women to join our service mission.”
Behind the scenes, the dedicated team including Dr. Kalindi Rane, Anagha Vaidhya, Sonali Shrawane, and Manisha Thakar, District Coordinator – GLT, worked tirelessly to orchestrate what participants described as a “day of connection and inspiration.”
