Mumbai, Aug 25: In a sparkling celebration of entrepreneurship and collective ambition, the IMC Ladies’ Wing inaugurated the 39th edition of the Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai.
Marking the 60 years of the IMC Ladies’ Wing, the inaugural ceremony was graced by renowned filmmaker, entrepreneur and Padma Shri holder, Mr. Karan Johar and singer and social activist, Ms. Amruta Fadnavis.
Speaking at the event, Karan Johar said,
“ Congratulations on the diamond jubilee of the IMC Ladies’ Wing. I’m so glad that we’re all under this illustrious tree, and a tree always signifies growth. That’s what I can see, having started from 18 stalls 39 years ago to now 300+, it is a mammoth achievement for IMC! I think these exceptional women who stand behind these empowered stalls have dreams, and I wish that everyone attending this glorious exhibition gets to fulfil those dreams. Having been raised by an exceptionally empowered woman, I do understand the force that a woman is. Being surrounded by all these wonderful women that I stand here with today, I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to all these wonderful women, on this wonderful start.”
Amruta Fadnavis shared inspiring words, with some of her key thoughts being ,
“ IMC Ladies’ Wing Women Entrepreneurs’ Exhibition is not just a showcase of businesses, but a celebration of stories of success, failure, resilience and much more. It creates a meaningful platform for women to showcase their ideas, and empower one another. I would just remind all the ladies who are here that success is not final, failure is not fatal, it’s the desire and courage to continue, which makes you what you are. So keep going, we are all with you! The IMC’s continued efforts to nurture entrepreneurship and mentor young women is truly commendable. I congratulate the IMC Ladies’ Wing on this milestone”
The ceremony began with the national anthem and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp in the presence of the Guests, committee members and participating entrepreneurs.
Ms. Anita Chouhan, President, IMC Ladies’ Wing, extended a warm welcome to the guests and participants, praising their courage to dream and determination to make things happen. “As we stand here today, beneath our beautiful Tree of Life, its roots represent our legacy, its branches our growth, and every new leaf the women who continue to add to our story. For 60 years, the IMC Ladies’ Wing has nurtured these roots, creating a foundation strong enough for new generations to grow” she added. She also thanked the partners, sponsors and the entire IMC administrative team that has worked tirelessly to make this exhibition possible.
Speaking about this year’s theme, “Bees and the Hive,” Ms. Pallavi Sahney Sharma, Chairperson, WE Exhibition 2026 Committee said,
“This year, we welcome over 320 women entrepreneurs from across India, making this one of our most vibrant and diverse editions yet. Over these two days, one can discover fashion, jewellery, lifestyle, home, gourmet, wellness, art and much more. There are established brands alongside emerging entrepreneurs, each with a story, an idea and the courage to build something of their own.”
The theme also resonates with the Presidential theme for the year, “Multiplying Impact.” Through meaningful exchanges and shared experiences, the success of one woman can create a ripple effect that empowers many more.
The exhibition was graced by notable personalities, including Shabana Azmi and Poonam Sinha, who congratulated the IMC team and encouraged the participating women entrepreneurs.
Further strengthening its commitment to emerging talent, the IMC Ladies’ Wing has collaborated with the Fashion Design Council of India, while also supporting NGOs and social enterprises through complimentary stalls. Sustainability remains a key focus, with vegan and eco-conscious brands, eco-printed textiles and environmentally responsible products, alongside green energy, responsible waste management, recycling and carbon-offsetting initiatives.
Ms. Juveca Panda Chheda, Co-Chairperson, WE Exhibition 2026 Committee added
“As you walk through the exhibition, I hope you discover more than beautiful products and exciting brands. I hope you discover new ideas, new possibilities, and perhaps even one small change you want to take back to your own business or life.”
As the IMC Ladies’ Wing marks 60 years of empowering women and 39 years of building an entrepreneurial ecosystem, the exhibition celebrates the power of collective action to build communities, create opportunities and multiply impact.