Zarine Manchanda: A Journey of Resilience and Philanthropy
Fearless Businesswoman of the Year, 2024
Zarine Manchanda, born and raised in a prominent political family near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, is the daughter of a minister and a successful businessman. Her early life was influenced by the rich cultural heritage of the region, including the presence of the Dalai Lama. Following her university education, Zarine moved to Mumbai with dreams of becoming an actress. However, breaking into the glamour industry proved challenging, leading Zarine to make a dramatic and life-changing career shift.
Determined to make a difference, Zarine established the Zarine Manchanda Foundation in Aarey Colony, Mumbai, in 2019. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 lockdowns, the Foundation successfully administered over 500 food and clothing donation programs within two years, earning a reputation as a top-rated and respected charitable organization in Mumbai. At EliteX, we are proud to have Zarine Manchanda as Fearless Businesswoman of the Year, 2024.
Building on this success, Zarine ventured into the hospitality industry by opening the luxurious Zarine Manchanda Café in Mumbai. The café, known for its slogan “Delicious, Luxurious Spiritual Charm,” features stylish décor and unique offerings like blessings for patrons and the ringing of Tibetan bells from Dharamshala. Zarine’s interior design company, Zarine Manchanda Interiors, created the café’s sophisticated décor. She is now regarded as the founder of the 7-star café experience in India, with plans to expand both domestically and internationally through franchising.
“Empowering the underprivileged and creating opportunities for growth and success is my life’s mission.”
Zarine’s remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has appeared on the cover of FEMINA magazine and was named one of the “Fabulous 50 Women” by Femina in 2020. India Today recognized her as one of the “45 Most Influential Indians” in their 45th anniversary edition in 2020. She has also received multiple awards from the Economic Times for her business expansions and was honored as a Young Philanthropist by the Times of India in January 2021. Her privileged upbringing, combined with her exemplary charity work, has earned Zarine the media title “Princess of the Poor” and the potential to be a “Mother to Millions,” drawing inspiration from her role models, Princess Diana and Mother Teresa. Both these iconic women shared a deep connection with India through their charitable work.
In 2021, Zarine received more prestigious awards, including two National Awards for her outstanding contributions to helping the poor through her Foundation. She also received two Governor Awards from Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the Governor of Maharashtra. Zarine was honored with the Nelson Mandela Peace Award, which included a Doctorate Degree recognizing her invaluable contributions to charity. Additionally, she received accolades from the All India Council on Human Rights & Social Justice in Delhi in December 2022.
In 2022, Zarine was recognized as Midday Magazine’s “Power Woman” and was celebrated as the “Iconic Young Entrepreneur & Philanthropist of the Year” at the Governor’s House in Mumbai. In March 2022, she was named “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in Delhi, where she served as the Guest of Honor. Zarine’s substantial media coverage as an award-winning philanthropist, CEO, and young entrepreneur led to her appointment as Regional Director in Mumbai for BRICS, a prestigious geopolitical and economic trade organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Through her various roles, Zarine continues to inspire and make a significant impact on society.
“Through philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and now politics, I strive to be a catalyst for positive change in our society.”
In December 2021, Zarine Manchanda received a prestigious appointment from the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, recognizing her leadership and influence. Further solidifying her esteemed status, she was named Chairperson & Editor In Chief by India’s National Council of News & Broadcasting in June 2023, overseeing Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa. In this role, Zarine addresses crucial issues such as freedom of the press, media reforms, and human rights. Zarine’s versatility extends beyond her philanthropic and political endeavors. She was a showstopper at the Bombay Times Fashion Week Galas in December 2020 and October 2021, showcasing her elegance and poise.
As a young entrepreneur with a remarkable portfolio, Zarine launched two new ventures in 2022: “Heavenly Flavours,” a 7-star cloud kitchen and food delivery service, and Zarine Manchanda Premium Security Service, a 7-star security agency. Notably, she is the only woman in India to own a security services business. In 2023, Zarine introduced “Flavours of Himachal Pradesh,” Mumbai’s first 7-star restaurant specializing in traditional Himachali cuisine. The restaurant’s highlight is Dham, a vegetarian thali that requires two days to prepare and is traditionally served during holidays and festivals. The chefs, masters of Dham cooking, hail from Himachal Pradesh.
With her successes in philanthropy and entrepreneurship, Zarine also pursued her political ambitions. She launched her own political party, The Zarine Manchanda People’s Party, and will contest elections in Mumbai’s Andheri West area in April 2024. Widely regarded as a respected social activist and Champion of the Poor, Zarine aims to use her political party as a force for positive change in Mumbai, especially for its poorest residents. Through her diverse accomplishments, Zarine Manchanda continues to inspire many as a leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, making a significant impact in various fields and paving the way for future generations.
“My journey has been a testament to resilience and the unwavering belief that one person can make a difference.”