The ELLE Sustainability Awards 2024

The second edition of the ELLE Sustainability Awards, presented by Signature Packaged Drinking Water celebrated the revolutionary sustainable changemakers in fashion and other walks of life. Last year, the ELLE Sustainability Awards celebrated revolutionary people who are pushing the boundaries of eco-conscious style and action. This year, too, was all about honouring trailblazers in the fashion, beauty and lifestyle industry, who beyond preaching a sustainable way of living. We delve deeper, seeking out the pioneers who are pushing boundaries, innovating solutions, and inspiring a global movement. Ahead, we list all the winners of the awards.

1. Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Sustainability Leaders Of The Year (Male): Manish Malhotra, Fashion Designer

Manish Malhotra supports the artisans and the age-old artisanal techniques from Mijwan’s Chinkari to Punjab’s Phulkari, Kashmiri craft, and Banarasi craftsmanship by reviving and sustaining these crafts. Manish Malhotra, a luminary in the fashion industry, stands before us as the deserving recipient of the prestigious ELLE Sustainability Leaders of the Year, Male Award. His illustrious career is defined by his unwavering commitment to celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage through his iconic collections.

2. ELLE Sustainability Leaders Of The Year (Female): Karishma Swali, Founder and Chairperson, Chanakya Foundation

Karishma Swali, founder and Chairperson of the Chanakya Foundation, is an accomplished leader whose vision and dedication have redefined the intersection of fashion, artistry and sustainability. Karishma has empowered local artisans and revived traditional crafts by blending them with modern design sensibilities through her role at Chanakya School of Craft. Her ground-breaking innovations and international acclaim have earned her recognition for the Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Sustainability Leaders Of The Year Award.

3. ELLE Sustainable Style Vision (Female): Uma Prajapati, Founder Of Upasana

As the founder of Upasana, Uma Prajapati has transformed the fashion landscape by seamlessly weaving ethics and aesthetics into every facet of her work. Uma’s vision goes beyond the creation of beautiful, high-quality designs. She is an unwavering advocate for sustainable practices, from the careful sourcing of eco-friendly materials to the employment of ethical production methods. Her empowering spirit towards countless artisans and workers along the supply chain has been recognised through the ELLE Sustainable Style Vision Award.

4. ELLE Sustainable Style Vision (Male): Naushad Ali, Founder Of Naushad Ali

Naushad’s brand is distinguished by its use of heritage fabrics and meticulous attention to detail, as well as its minimalist, modern tailoring and small-batch production approach. Since the brand’s inception in 2015, Naushad has devoted himself to collaborating with skilled Indian artisans, emphasising their traditional techniques and craftsmanship. Thus, his work is aptly recognised with the ELLE Sustainability Style Vision Award.

5. ELLE Fashion Changemaker: Darshana Gajare, Head of Sustainability At RISE Worldwide Limited

Under the leadership of Darshana Gajare, Head of Sustainability At RISE Worldwide Limited, Lakmé Fashion Week has become a beacon of sustainable practices, showcasing designs that prioritise environmental responsibility and social impact. Her strategic efforts have not only elevated the profile of sustainable fashion but have also inspired a new generation of designers and consumers to embrace conscious choices. It was thus fitting to present her with the ELLE Fashion Changemaker Award.

6. ELLE Circular Economy: Bhaavya Goenka, Founder of Iro Iro and Sudheer Rajbhar, Founder Of Chamar Studio

Bhaavya Goenka is the founder of Iro Iro, a label that doesn’t just make products but a powerful statement. Bhaavya has made a profound impact on the industry through her innovative approach to sustainable design and the circular economy. Her work extends beyond her studio as she collaborates with local communities and artisans, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and environmental stewardship, which is why she is honoured with the ELLE Circular Economy Award.

7. ELLE Eco-Innovation (Fashion): Arundhati Kumar, Founder of Studio Beej

Arundhati Kumar is a trailblazer in eco-conscious design, leading the way with her visionary approach to sustainability in fashion. Through her brand Studio Beej, she has successfully merged style and environmental responsibility, creating a brand that is a true embodiment of ethical practices and thoughtful craftsmanship. It was thus fitting to present her with the ELLE Eco-Innovation Award.

8. ELLE Beauty Changemaker: Rubeina Karachiwalla, Founder Of Ruby’s Organics

Rubeina Karachiwalla, Founder of Ruby’s Organics, has changed the perception of beauty products, highlighting the importance of clean, organic materials and environmentally responsible packaging. Being a trailblazer in the sustainable cosmetics industry, Rubeina has proven her unwavering commitment to making products that respect and protect the environment while enhancing natural beauty. Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Rubeina Karachiwalla is a tireless advocate for environmental conservation and social responsibility. It was thus fitting to present her with the ELLE Beauty Changemaker Award. 

9. ELLE Eco-Innovation Beauty: Astha Suri, Founder of Naso Profumi

Fundamental to Naso Profumi’s philosophy is founder Astha Suri’s persistent dedication to using nature’s power to create beautiful scents and cosmetics. Her creative method sets a new benchmark for the sector by fusing cutting-edge, environmentally friendly technologies with organic, ethically obtained materials in a seamless manner. It was thus fitting to present her with the ELLE Eco-Innovation Beauty Award.

10. ELLE Lifestyle Changemaker: Aditi Dugar, Founder Araku Restaurant

Through her ventures, Araku Coffee and Araku Restaurant, Aditi Dugar has not only redefined the culinary landscape but has also revolutionised the way we perceive sustainability in the food and beverage industry. In addition to her culinary endeavours, Aditi’s commitment to sustainability extends to Araku Restaurant, where she integrates principles of eco-friendly design, zero-waste practices, and mindful sourcing to create a truly sustainable dining experience. It was thus fitting to present her with the ELLE Lifestyle Changemaker Award.

11. ELLE Sustainable Innovation: Roshan Netalkar, Founder & Festival Director of Echoes of Earth Festival

The winner of our ELLE Sustainable Innovation Award, Roshan Netalkar – Founder & Festival Director of Echoes of Earth Festival – has seamlessly integrated music, art, and sustainability to create a one-of-a-kind festival experience. From eco-friendly stages and installations to sustainable food and waste management practices, every aspect of the festival reflects Roshan’s unwavering commitment to reducing environmental impact and fostering a culture of conservation.

12. ELLE Eco-Champion of the Year: Aishwarya Sharma, Fashion Activist

In a world where demonstrations utilising fashion as a medium are gaining momentum, our ELLE Eco-Champion Of The Year Award winner, Aishwarya Sharma has carved a unique space for fashion activism. Through her innovative approach, she utilises fashion as a powerful vehicle to spotlight pressing social issues and drive meaningful change. Aishwarya’s journey has been characterised by breaking stereotypes and challenging norms, and she has been recognised with this title.

13. ELLE Social Responsibility: Ankit Agarwal, Founder Of Phool

Co-founder of Phool, Ankit Agarwal has pioneered a revolutionary approach to sustainable business by harnessing the power of flowers. By upcycling floral waste from temples and transforming it into natural incense and other biodegradable products, he has not only mitigated environmental pollution but has also created meaningful employment opportunities for marginalised communities, which aptly makes him fit for the ELLE Social Responsibility Award.

14. ELLE Mindful Design: Sadhna Prasad, Multidisciplinary Artist & Muralist

Sadhna’s journey as an artist is one of boundless imagination and unwavering commitment to mindful creation. Through her diverse artistic expressions, she effortlessly weaves together elements of sustainability, consciousness, and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the world around her. As a muralist, Sadhna has transformed urban landscapes into vibrant tapestries of colour and meaning, infusing each stroke with a profound sense of purpose and mindfulness. Which aptly makes her fit for the ELLE Mindful Design Award.

15. Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Leaders Of Change, (Male): Rahul Bose, Actor

Through his multifaceted roles as an actor, filmmaker, and social activist, he has tirelessly championed causes close to his heart, driving meaningful impact and inspiring others to join him in the fight for a better future. From the time when he was one of 10 global climate activists to address the public at the opening of COP 15 in Copenhagen to his innovative ideas for water conservation in India’s cities, his advocacy for sustainable development, conservation, and climate action has sparked vital conversations and catalysed transformative initiatives aimed at protecting our planet and preserving its natural resources for generations to come.  His advocacy for sustainable development, conservation, and climate action has been recognised with the Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Leaders Of Change, Male Award.

16.  Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Leaders of Change, (Female): Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Actor

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, a celebrated  Indian actress, is not just captivating audiences on screen but also making waves with her commitment to sustainable living. With a profound dedication to environmental consciousness, Samantha has embraced a plant-based diet and actively promotes the consumption of locally sourced, clean produce. Through her social media platforms, Samantha shares glimpses of her eco-friendly lifestyle, inspiring her followers to embark on their own sustainability journeys. Beyond her cinematic achievements in films, Samantha’s advocacy for sustainability sets her apart as a true luminary in her field. As she receives recognition for her outstanding contributions to sustainability, Samantha stands as a beacon of inspiration for embracing a lifestyle that harmonises with the planet. Thus, her work is aptly recognised with the Signature Packaged Drinking Water ELLE Leaders of Change Award.

17. ELLE Sustainable Leader of the Year: Raveena Tandon, Actor

Raveena Tandon, a renowned actress, a Padma Shri award winner, philanthropist, and environmental advocate, stands before us as the recipient of the prestigious ELLE Sustainable Leader of the Year award. Raveena’s journey as a sustainable leader is one characterised by passion, purpose, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference. Through her influential platform and tireless activism, she has emerged as a vocal champion for environmental conservation, climate action, and social responsibility.

18. ELLE’s Eco-Lifestyle Inspiration: Richa Chadha, Actor

An acclaimed actress, activist, and advocate for sustainable living, stands before us as the embodiment of ELLE’s Eco-Lifestyle Inspiration award. From advocating for ethical fashion choices to promoting mindful consumption habits and having an eco-friendly wedding, Richa’s tireless efforts have sparked vital conversations and catalysed meaningful change, inspiring individuals across generations to adopt a more eco-conscious way of life.

19. ELLE’s Sustainable Lifestyle Trendsetter: Malaika Arora, Actor

Through her vast social media platforms, our ELLE’s Sustainable Lifestyle Trendsetter Award winner, Malaika Arora has harnessed the power of influence to amplify the message of sustainability and eco-conscious living. From promoting ethical fashion brands to advocating for mindful consumption habits, she has leveraged her online presence to inspire millions of followers to adopt more sustainable practices in their everyday lives. Malaika’s dedication to using her voice for positive change serves as a shining example of how celebrities can harness their influence to create a meaningful impact on society and the planet alike.

20. ELLE Sustainable Mould-Breaker Award: Genelia Deshmukh, Actor

Through her influential platforms like Imagine Meats and bold initiatives, the winner of the ELLE Sustainable Mould-Breaker award, Genelia Deshmukh has sparked vital conversations and catalysed transformative change, inspiring individuals across the globe to embrace a more eco-conscious way of life. Tonight, we celebrate Genelia Deshmukh not only for her remarkable talent but also for her extraordinary contributions to sustainability and social impact. Her lifestyle, innovative approach, and unwavering dedication serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

21. ELLE Sustainability Champion of the Year: Nandita Das, Actor and Director

Nandita Das, renowned filmmaker, actress, and tireless advocate for environmental conservation, stands before us as the deserving recipient of the esteemed ELLE Sustainability Champion of the Year award. Nandita’s journey as a sustainability champion is as remarkable as it is inspiring. With an unwavering commitment to leveraging her platform for positive change, she has tirelessly advocated for environmental awareness, social responsibility, and ethical living. From her groundbreaking films that shed light on pressing environmental issues to her active involvement in grassroots initiatives aimed at fostering sustainability, Nandita’s efforts have left an indelible mark on the global landscape of sustainability.

22. ELLE Sustainable Social Media Trailblazer: Alaya F, Actor

Alaya’s journey is characterised by her unwavering dedication to using her influential platform for positive change. Through her engaging social channels, she has fearlessly initiated and amplified important conversations surrounding environmental conservation, ethical living, and sustainable practices. She takes home the ELLE Sustainability Social Media Trailblazer Award.