Hosted by  Anita Dongre Founder and Chief Creative Officer of the House of Anita Dongre  in collaboration with Nirupa Shankar Jt MD of Brigade Group and MD of Brigade Hotel Ventures, the event in April 2026 was in association with Orion Mall, Bangalore. The gathering brought together a diverse mix of women entrepreneurs, industry leaders, creators, and community voices each contributing to a shared narrative of growth and support.

At its heart, ANDweRISE is about creating a space where women come together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another rooted in the belief that when women support women, ambition grows stronger and more meaningful. The highlight of the afternoon was an engaging and deeply personal conversation between Anita Dongre and Nirupa Shankar, centered on their journeys as women in business. The discussion offered an honest look at the realities of building and leading exploring the challenges they faced, the biases they navigated, and how they overcame them with resilience and determination.

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Anita Dongre Founder and Chief Creative Officer of the House of Anita Dongre shared, “Women should never limit themselves. There is immense strength in what we can build and achieve when we stop second-guessing our potential and take that first step with confidence.” Speaking about navigating leadership spaces, Nirupa Shankar Jt MD of Brigade Group and MD of Brigade Hotel Ventures shared “When you walk into a room, it shouldn’t be about men or women it is about people. The shift happens when you show up with confidence, own your space, and focus on the value you bring.”

The conversation also highlighted the positives of their journeys the opportunity to build impactful businesses, create meaningful change, and inspire other women while candidly acknowledging the obstacles that come with leadership. The evening concluded with a strong emphasis on sisterhood and collective growth, reinforcing the idea that when women come together to share, support, and uplift one another, they pave the way for a more inclusive and empowering future.