Meet the 3 Indian women who earned a spot on BBC's inspiring women list 2024

The BBC's list of 100 inspiring and influential women for 2024 celebrates remarkable individuals making a difference across the globe. The list includes astronaut Sunita Williams, actress Sharon Stone, and Nobel laureate Nadia Murad, among others.

The following three exceptional Indian women have also been honoured for their contributions to social activism, sports, and breaking societal barriers. (Picture credit: BBC)

Aruna Roy, a renowned social activist, has dedicated over four decades to fighting for the rights of India's rural communities. A former civil servant, she co-founded the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), an organisation that advocates for transparency, fair wages, and accountability in governance.

Her efforts were instrumental in the passing of the Right to Information Act in 2005, a landmark legislation empowering citizens to demand information from government authorities, strengthening transparency and democracy. (Picture credit: BBC)

Currently serving as the president of the National Federation of Indian Women, Aruna continues to lead grassroots movements aimed at achieving social justice and equality. She remains a vocal advocate for marginalised communities, inspiring countless activists across the country.

This year, she published her memoir, The Personal is Political, where she reflects on her journey and the causes she has championed. Through her leadership and advocacy, Aruna Roy has solidified her legacy as a transformative figure in India’s fight for justice and transparency. (Picture credit: Facebook/MKSS)

Vinesh Phogat, one of India's most accomplished wrestlers, has broken barriers in sports and society. A three-time olympian, she has won medals in prestigious events such as the World championships, Commonwealth games, and Asian games.
Despite her sporting success, Vinesh faced heartbreak this year when she became India’s first female wrestler to qualify for an olympic final but was disqualified for exceeding the weight limit by just 100 grams. (Picture credit: BBC)

Vinesh is also known for leading a significant protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former chief of the Indian Wrestling Federation, accused of sexual harassment.

Her advocacy for gender equality in sports has inspired many across the nation. (PTI photo)

Pooja Sharma has challenged deep-rooted societal norms by taking up the responsibility of performing funeral rites for unclaimed bodies in Delhi – a role traditionally reserved for men in Hindu culture.

Her journey began after she performed her brother's last rites alone, defying conventions to honour his memory. (Picture credit: BBC)

As the founder of Bright the soul foundation, Pooja has conducted over 4,000 funerary rites in the past three years, serving people from diverse religious backgrounds.
Her dedication to dignity in death has not only broken barriers but also set a powerful example of compassion and equality in the face of tradition. (Picture credit: Bright the soul foundation)