Women’s Empowerment Shines as Rani Mukerji Inspires Youth
Rani Mukerji and IPS Parikshita Rathod inspire young innovators at SwarrnimTalks, organised by Swarrnim Startup and Innovation University
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’s empowerment, both guests were escorted by the girl cadets of the University’s Self Defence Training cell.
The idea of SwarrnimTalks is rooted in the growing need to connect young people with real-life role models. Across India, universities are increasingly inviting leaders from different walks of life to speak directly with students. Such interactions help students understand that success does not come overnight and that every career, whether in cinema or civil services, demands discipline, courage and long-term commitment.
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.
Public talks by well-known personalities often play a key role in shaping student thinking. For young innovators and first-time entrepreneurs, listening to lived experiences can be more impactful than textbooks. Events like these also reflect how educational institutions are moving beyond classrooms to build confidence, leadership skills and social awareness among students.
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.
Over the years, Mukerji has built a career by choosing roles that challenge social norms. Her Mardaani film series, which focuses on crime against women and law enforcement, has sparked many public discussions on safety and justice. Starting promotions from an academic campus also underlines the importance of reaching young audiences and encouraging meaningful conversations through cinema.
“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 dare 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.
Her words reflected a message often shared by creative professionals: early years are crucial for self-discovery. Many successful actors and artists have spoken about how failures, rejections and hard work during their student life helped shape their future paths. “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.
This view aligns with wider social research, which shows that long-term safety solutions depend on education, family values and respect from an early age. Public figures raising such points help keep the focus on prevention and shared responsibility.
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.
Women officers in the Indian Police Service often serve as powerful symbols of change. Their presence encourages more young women to consider careers in public service and reinforces the importance of preparedness, awareness and inner strength.
Together, the two speakers represented the spirit of Entrepreनारी talk, women who challenge norms, lead with conviction and create impact beyond traditional boundaries.
The concept of women-led change is gaining momentum across India, especially in education and start-up ecosystems. Stories of women leaders succeeding in diverse fields help break stereotypes and inspire inclusive growth.
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.
Such gestures highlight the role of practical exposure and recognition in building confidence among students. Startup incubation centres led by women also reflect the rising participation of women in innovation and entrepreneurship.
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.
