Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University on Tuesday hosted an inspiring edition of SwarrnimTalks, bringing together two presidential award winner formidable women leaders namely, celebrated actor of Indian cinema, Rani Mukerji and IPS officer Parikshita Rathod. The two participated in an engaging conversation on leadership, resilience and women-led change. In line with the theme of women empowerment, both the guest were escorted by the girl cadets of the University’s Self Defence Training cell.
Held at the university’s Bhoyan Rathod campus, the session drew an enthusiastic audience of students, entrepreneurs and young professionals, all keen to hear from two women who embody strength and purpose in different yet equally demanding fields. The session was held in the presence of University Trustees’ Mrs Sunita Jain, Mrs Vinjal Jain and Mrs Nikita Jain.
Rani Mukerji, known for her portrayal of strong, unconventional women on screen, spoke about the importance of authenticity, grit and using one’s platform responsibly. Having showcased the trailer of her upcoming film, Mardaani 3, she also began the film’s official promotions from Ahmedabad.
“It is wonderful to be back in Ahmedabad. The warmth I have received here today is truly special. Being on a university campus takes me back to my own school and college days; this is the most important phase of your life, when you must discover your dreams and have the courage to chase them. My three-decade journey in cinema would not have been possible without the love and support of audiences across the country,” she said.
“When it comes to women’s safety, awareness is critical; knowing where you are going, with whom you are going and being mindful of your surroundings. But real change begins at home. It starts with mothers teaching their sons where boundaries lie. Only when we work together can we build a safer and more equal society,” Mukerji added.
IPS Parikshita Rathod, who has carved out a reputation for integrity and courage in public service, shared insights from her experiences in the police force. “Government schemes and policies can provide a framework, but true change begins when women empower themselves. Self-defence training should be part of every school and college, because confidence and preparedness go hand in hand. Young women must recognise their own strengths and build themselves up – socially, economically, physically and mentally; so they can face the world with courage and clarity,” she told students.
Together, the two speakers represented the spirit of Entrepreनारी talk, women who challenge norms, lead with conviction and create impact beyond traditional boundaries.
Both guests were given a guided tour of the women led startups incubated at the university. IPS Parikshita Rathod also honoured the cadets both boys & girls with badges.
Shri Adi Rishabh Jain, Vice President, Swarrnim Startup & Innovation University, said, “SwarrnimTalks was created to give our students direct access to leaders who have shaped their fields through courage, integrity and innovation. When young people engage with role models like Rani Mukerji and IPS Parikshita Rathod, they do not just hear stories of success; they begin to visualise their own potential and responsibility as future changemakers.”
The session marked another milestone in Swarrnim’s ongoing efforts to build a culture of entrepreneurship, inclusion and leadership among its students.