Bimla Poddar | |
|---|---|
| Born | 28 August 1936 Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Died | 14 May 2025 (aged 88) |
| Occupations | Social worker, philanthropist |
| Known for | Philanthropy |
| Spouse | Bimal Kumar Poddar |
| Awards | Padma Shri |
Bimla Poddar (28 August 1936 - 14 May 2025) [1] was an Indian social worker, businessperson, philanthropist and the founder of Jnana Pravaha, [2] [3] Affectionately known as Bari Ma [4]
Bimla was born and brought up in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. She was married into a rich business family to late Bimal Kumar Poddar [5] She was also known for her deep passion for classical music. [4]
Bimla used to hold the directorship of many of the family concerns [6] [7] which includes Ambuja Cements. [5] Jnana Pravaha is a Varanasi based centre for cultural studies founded by Poddar with Suresh Neotia, engaged in the efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of India. [8] Under the aegis of the organization, Poddar was involved in activities related to exploration of India's culture [9] [10] and maintains a heritage museum housing artifacts from ancient India. [3] [11]
She was honoured by the Government of India in 2015 with Padma Shri, the fourth highest Indian civilian award. [12]
Bimla passed away in Varanasi on May 14, 2025, just a few months before her 89th birthday in August. She was cremated in Varanasi. [4]
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