Meet the 'heroes of change' who left profound and lasting impact on society

Bengaluru: Standing by Deccan Herald’s tagline — The Power of Good — the seventh edition of DH Changemakers 2025 honoured 15 extraordinary individuals who have shaped society for the better. The award ceremony took place in Bengaluru on Friday. 

From art to athletics, education, environment, music, health, human rights and revival of ancient weaving traditions, the event brought together a vibrant batch of individuals who have left a profound and lasting impact on communities. 

The 15 changemakers chosen by the jury not only connected with each other, but also got an opportunity to tell the world about the unique and impactful work they do despite challenges and obstacles. The Changemakers were accompanied to the event by their friends and family members. 

The optimism of the evening was amplified by a musical rendition by Ustaad Faiyaaz Khan. “The changemakers are in a way similar to what the vachanas convey. They continue to do what they are determined to, without losing hope,” he said. 

Renowned writer Vasudhendra said, “When we go trekking in interior forests, there’ll be homes that offer water or buttermilk to quench our thirst. But we can’t rest in these houses forever. Changemaker Awards is one such place which quenches our thirst to do more and to contribute more to the society.” 

The changemakers, who walked away with awards well-deserved to them, were an excited lot. Shweta Rani
H K, one of the Changemakers dedicated her award to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar as she went on to say that she couldn’t have imagined building a career in theatre otherwise. 

Speaking at the award ceremony, Hemalatha Jain, who was recognised for her contribution to textile revival asked the audience to step back and ask who is the maker of their clothes while highlighting that it is important to support local clothing practices and weaving traditions. 

The audience were treated to a mesmerising evening filled with love, laughter and joy. Arun Pai of Bangalore Walks noted that it is astounding how the DH Changemakers Award is not limited to the achievements of people from privileged backgrounds in Bengaluru but considers the entire state. 

Sharing the joy of her daughter Unnathi Aiyappa winning the DH Changemakers award, Indian heptathlete Pramila
Aiyappa said the award will motivate many youngsters to give their best in whatever they pursue.

This year’s DH Changemakers Award ceremony was supported by the Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society, Department of Social Welfare, Government of Karnataka, along with Mahindra as mobility partner, knowledge partner Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences; healthcare partner Sparsh Hospital; travel partner Trawelmart and associate partners First Circle and Margadarsi and TV partner Asianet Suvarna News.