Philanthropy’s Finest: The Powerhouse Women Redefining Generosity in India 2025

Updated: November 08, 2025 10:48

Rohini Nilekani tops India’s 2025 philanthropy list, donating ₹204 crore, followed by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (₹83 crore) and Bina Shah (₹69 crore). Together, they lead transformations in education, climate action, health, and gender equity, exemplifying how women philanthropists in India are driving systemic social innovation and impact.

The EdelGive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 highlights the generosity and impact of India’s leading women philanthropists, with Rohini Nilekani at the forefront. With donations totaling ₹204 crore in the past year and ₹763 crore over five years, Nilekani’s contributions focus on social innovation encompassing education, climate action, governance, and gender equity.

Rohini Nilekani: Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and co-founder of EkStep Foundation, she spearheads initiatives building sustainable ecosystems and civil society institutions that promote equitable growth across India.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: Ranked second with ₹83 crore donated in the past year and ₹310 crore cumulatively, Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon and Mazumdar Shaw Philanthropy, focuses on scientific research, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation.

Bina Shah: Co-founder of the Harish & Bina Shah Foundation and third on the list, she contributed ₹69 crore, supporting education, health, gender equity, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Additional Leaders: The list features Anu Aga, Sheela Kochouseph, Leena Gandhi Tewari, and others contributing across education, rural development, skill-building, and water conservation.

Impact Growth: The 12th annual list includes 191 philanthropists donating ₹10,380 crore—an 85% increase over three years—illustrating India’s growing culture of strategic and impactful giving.

Sector Focus: These women’s philanthropy strengthens institutions and drives systemic change, embodying leadership that transcends conventional charity to create lasting social innovation and gender equality.

This roster of India’s most generous women celebrates leadership that combines wealth with purpose to reshape society and empower communities through thoughtful philanthropy.

Sources: Economic Times, Mint, EdelGive-Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025, Instagram, Facebook.

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