World’s Leaders magazine celebrates Zarine Manchanda — a dynamic figure who embodies innovation, determination, and empowerment. Born in the tranquil Himalayan town of Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, Zarine grew up in a politically influential household close to the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama. Her father served as a Minister, and her upbringing combined public life, privilege, and deep community ties.
After completing her education, Zarine relocated to Mumbai to pursue an acting career. When she discovered the film industry to be far more competitive than expected, she took a courageous turn toward philanthropy and leadership. In 2019, she launched the Zarine Manchanda Foundation in Aarey Colony, Mumbai — a move that became the cornerstone of her journey.
In just two years, despite the pandemic, her Foundation successfully ran over 500 food and clothing donation drives, swiftly emerging as one of Mumbai’s most respected charitable organizations. Buoyed by this success, Zarine branched into hospitality with the creation of the Zarine Manchanda Café — a sophisticated space celebrated for its tagline “Delicious, Luxurious Spiritual Charm.” The café blends refined interiors, elegant tableware, and the soothing chime of Tibetan Bells from Dharamshala, creating a serene and memorable guest experience.
At the heart of this design is Zarine Manchanda Interiors, her own design company that shaped the café’s signature aesthetic. She is credited with pioneering India’s first “7-Star Café” concept, which she now aims to expand nationwide and internationally through a franchise model.
Accolades, Media Presence, and Impact
Zarine’s achievements have positioned her as a leading voice in both business and social service. She has appeared on the cover of FEMINA, earned a spot on its “Fabulous 50 Women” list in 2020, and was named one of India Today’s “45 Most Influential Indians” the same year. The Economic Times applauded her business ventures, while the Times of India honored her as a Young Philanthropist in 2021.
The Pursuit of Excellence
Zarine’s leadership is rooted in discipline, strategy, and vision. She has assembled a strong core team to manage daily operations across her diverse enterprises. Her guiding belief: true excellence relies on more than just great ideas — it demands careful preparation and flawless execution, much like creating a masterful dish.
Within the Zarine Manchanda Foundation, she implements performance management systems and 360-degree feedback, identifying behavioral patterns to align each team member’s strengths with organizational goals. By encouraging employees to work in environments suited to their skills, she ensures respect, recognition, and opportunities for growth.
Blending Compassion and Enterprise
Nicknamed “Princess of the Poor” by the Indian media, Zarine fuses entrepreneurial ambition with humanitarian impact. Inspired by her role models Princess Diana and Mother Teresa, she aspires to be a “Mother to Millions,” dedicating her life to supporting underserved communities.
Her efforts have been honored widely: she is a two-time National Award winner, recipient of two Governor Awards from Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, and was presented with the Nelson Mandela Peace Award along with an honorary Doctorate for her work with India’s marginalized populations.
The recognition continued in 2022 when she received the All India Council on Human Rights & Social Justice Award, Midday Magazine’s “Power Woman Award,” and the title of “Iconic Young Entrepreneur & Philanthropist of the Year” at Mumbai’s Governor’s House. She was also named “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in Delhi, where she served as Guest of Honor.
Connect with Zarine
Follow Zarine Manchanda’s latest updates and initiatives:
LinkedIn: Dr. Zarine Manchanda
Instagram: @zarinemanchanda123
Facebook: Zarine Manchanda
