Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 12: The inaugural edition of the IRA Awards 2026, celebrating inspiring women achievers, was successfully held on March 8 at TMA Pai International Convention Centre, Mangaluru, marking the occasion of International Women’s Day.
The awards were organized by Dream Catchers Events, founded and directed by Prithvi Kamath, with the vision of creating a platform to recognize and celebrate women who have made remarkable contributions across various fields. The event received an overwhelming response with over 250 nominations submitted through the official website, highlighting the growing impact of women achievers across the region.
The evening honoured 25 women of excellence for their dedication, leadership and inspiring journeys.
S L Shet Diamond House, Ladyhill, represented by Sharath Shet and Deepthi Shet, supported the event as the title sponsor, in association with KMC Hospital, while Glitz Entertainment & Transit joined as the power sponsor along with other supporting partners. Popular blogger and influencer Laxmi Shenoy served as the brand ambassador for the event.
Distinguished guests of honour included ACP Geetha Kulkarni, ACP Nazma Farooqui, Ushaprabha Nayak (Expert Group of Institutions), Tashma Chethan (Founder, Naksha Enterprises), Dhiraj Shetty (Regional Influencer), and Eshwar Shetty (Founder, Yatharth Social), who appreciated the achievements of the awardees.
The winners were selected by an eminent jury panel comprising Dr Ashajyothi Rai, Reshma Nayak Sujir, Walter Nandalike, Dr Jeethu Radhakrishnan, Waseem R, and Dion Monteiro.
The programme featured a power talk by Dr Basila Ameer Ali, a book launch by Prajwal ND, vibrant performances by Sizzling Guys Dance Studio, and a power walk by Mantra IXE Fashion. The event was gracefully hosted by emcee VJ Dixon.
Awardees – IRA Awards 2026
Personal Excellence & Resilience
Phoenix Award – Shwetha Kotian
Woman of Courage – Dr Sajeela Kola
Social Community & Impact
Sustainability Champion – Alka Manoj
Woman of Impact – Rajani Damodar Shetty
Sports
Sportswoman of the Year – Tanvi Jagadish
Art, Culture & Creativity
Creative Visionary – Shraddha
Performing Artist of the Year – Shwetha Arahole
Fashion & Style Icon – Shreya Harish
Digital Creator of the Year – Sandhya Kamath
Education & Academia
Inspiring Educator – Sharmila Mukesh Rao
Young Achiever – Ayshwarya K
Fitness & Wellness
Fitness & Wellness Influencer – Nayana Shetty
Healthcare Woman – Dr Durgashree Shetty
Leadership & Business
Business Trailblazer – Laxmi Shetty
Emerging Woman – Gaana Bhat
Corporate Woman of Excellence – Sonali Mallya
Woman Entrepreneur of the Year – Komal Prabhu
Business Innovator – Deepa Kamath
IRA Signature Awards
Inspiring Mother – Amritha Shetty
Inspirational Woman – Mercy D’Souza
Lifetime Achievement – Dr Malini Hebbar
Mentor of the Year – Nafisa Afnan
People’s Choice – Jyothi Shetty
Rising Star – Wencita Dias