On April 4, 2026, Deccan College Post Graduate & Research Institute in Pune witnessed a truly historic and inspiring occasion. The inauguration of the Cornelia Sorabji and Thangam E. Philip Research Chairs was not only a celebration of two extraordinary women but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to advancing women’s leadership in the legal and hospitality domains. I feel truly honored to have been a part of this celebration.

About the college

Deccan College Post Graduate and Research Institute, Pune, established in 1821, is the third oldest educational institution in India. Originally founded as a Sanskrit Pathshala under Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone, it evolved into Poona College in 1851 and was renamed Deccan College in 1864. Relocated to its expansive Yerwada campus in 1868, it has since become a global center for research in archaeology, linguistics, and Sanskrit studies.

Notable alumni include Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Gopal Ganesh Agarkar, Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, Senapati Bapat, Dr. Dwarkanath Kotnis, Shripad Krushna Kolhatkar, Moropant Vishvanath Joshi, Narsimha Chintamani Kelkar, P. B. Gajendragadkar, Merwan Sheriar Irani, Iravati Karve, and Vishnushastri Chiplunkar. Their contributions to India’s freedom struggle, social reform, literature, and medicine reflect the institution’s enduring legacy.

Celebrating Two Visionary Legacies 

The Cornelia Sorabji (1866–1954) Research Chair honors India’s first lady barrister, social reformer, and author. A fearless trailblazer, Cornelia Sorabji broke through colonial and societal barriers to become the first female graduate from Deccan College Post Graduate and Research Institute, Pune, and also from Bombay University. She was the first Indian woman to study law at Oxford. Her lifelong dedication to justice and women’s rights continues to inspire generations.

Padmashri Dr. Thangam E. Philip (1921–2009) was a pioneering educationist, author, and visionary who transformed hospitality and catering education in India. As Principal of the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology, and Applied Nutrition, Mumbai, she trained generations of professionals, authored many books on catering and hospitality science, and elevated India’s hospitality standards to global recognition. Her legacy stands for resilience, innovation, and excellence.

A Special Honour 

An especially memorable moment for this initiative was receiving a gracious message from Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the 12th President of India. In her letter, she conveyed warm congratulations on this significant program and extended her best wishes for its success. Her kind words added immense value to the occasion and were received as a true honor for all of us involved.

Having the encouragement of such a distinguished national leader was deeply meaningful. It reflected the wider importance of recognizing women pioneers and supporting initiatives that honor their legacy while empowering the next generation. She also mentioned my book, which was a recognition not just for me but for all the women featured in it—women in the hospitality and tourism industry, as well as all women who have broken barriers and risen above stereotypes.

The Inauguration and Roundtable Conference 

The historic inauguration was further marked by the First Roundtable Conference of India and Asia, organized by the Hospitality Industry of India & Asia (ACOHI). The event was inaugurated by Shri Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State, Government of India, whose presence underscored the national significance of the occasion. He also unveiled the poster of my book, Illuminating Her Way – Indian Women in Hospitality, and delivered an inspiring address enriched with his signature poetry. He added his wellknown sense of humor and presence of mind, humorously remarking, “I was Laxmi, so what did I really need? I was blessed.”

It was a deeply personal honor when he appreciated the work being done by women in hospitality and extended encouraging words to me. Led by Dr. Sanee Awsarmmel, Chairman of ACOHI, and supported by distinguished leaders, the conference brought together voices from the legal, hospitality, and cultural sectors—creating a powerful platform for dialogue and future collaboration.

A Vision for the Future 

During the inauguration, some of the brightest minds present shared their insights. Brahma Kumari Chandradharini Didi delivered an enlightening address and words of wisdom. BK Lata Didi spoke about the challenges women have faced and how difficult it was for her to start her legal practice. It took nearly two decades to receive what was due—not just for her but for women in similar professions. Mr. Adi Siganporia shared a powerful message highlighting equality, while Mr. Jamshed Mistry presented deep research on important legal matters, sharing anecdotes that offered valuable lessons. Equally informative and inspiring were the addresses delivered by Mr. Khushroo Kekobad and Mr. Mukund Deshpande. Dr. Ujwala Sonawane emphasized the importance of education and empowering women.

I shared my heartfelt belief that these research chairs will become centers of excellence for research, dialogue, and innovation on women’s leadership and social impact. They stand as living tributes to Cornelia Sorabji and Thangam E. Philip, inspiring future generations to dream boldly, lead fearlessly, and create meaningful change.

As the founder of Indian Women in Hospitality, I have witnessed over 27 years how women continue to reshape the industry with strength, empathy, and vision. From sustainable hospitality practices to redefining Indian cuisine on the global stage, women are leading with purpose and passion. Through initiatives that promote mentorship, knowledge sharing, and empowerment, IWH remains committed to helping more women rise, lead, and inspire.

Key Highlights 

• Honoring Cornelia Sorabji’s pioneering contributions to law and society.
• Celebrating Dr. Thangam E. Philip’s transformative impact on hospitality education.
• Fostering dialogue on institutional and community partnerships of national importance.
• Highlighting women pioneers shaping modern India in law and hospitality.
• Strengthening collaborations across legal, hospitality, and cultural sectors.
• Launching the poster of Illuminating Her Way – Indian Women in Hospitality

Memorandum and Future Initiatives 

• Launch of Cornelia Sorabji’s official poster at Rashtrapati Bhavan and Sansad Bhavan as a national symbol of women’s empowerment.
• Installation of her photograph in law colleges across India.
• Organizing a national program in the presence of the President of India, dedicated to her legacy.
• Establishment of Research Chairs in her and Dr. Thangam E. Philip’s names at Deccan College.
• Conferment of honorary doctorates upon Cornelia Sorabji by Shivaji Lok Vidyapeeth, Vikramshila Hindi Vidyapeeth, and ACOHI.

Dignitaries and Speakers at the Event 

• Dr. Prasad Joshi, Vice Chancellor, Deccan Post Graduate and Research Institute
• Mr. Adi Siganporia, Former Trustee of Tata Trusts, Former Chairman of the WZCC Mumbai chapter, and VP India region
• Dr. Sanee Awsarmmel, Chairman, ACOHI
• Rajyogini BK Chakradharini Didi, Chairperson of the Brahma Kumari’s Women’s Wing & General Director for Russia and former USSR countries
• BK Lata Didi, Brahma Kumari’s Legal Advisor & National Coordinator of the Jurist Wing
• Dr. Ujwala Sonawane, Principal, Magarpatta College of Hospitality
• Mr. Mukund Deshpande, Board of Director, ACOHI
• Mr. Jamshed Mistry, Founder of ILA & Board of Director, ACOHI
• Mr. Kushroo Kekobad, Board of Director, ACOHI
• Dr. Shashidhar Iyerl, Cluster CEO, ACOHI
• Ms. Arrundhatii Iyer, VP CRM, India & Asia, ACOHI

This historic occasion was more than an event; it was a celebration of legacy, leadership, and possibility. With each step, we continue to honour trailblazing women and build a future where empowerment, excellence, and inspiration guide generations to come.

PS: Pictures are taken from ACOHI with due credits.