Shailza Sood Dasgupta — A Pride of India

From Rajpur, Palampur to the Global Stage of Travel, Tourism and Inclusion

TRICITY TIMES | Special Feature by bksood chief editor tct

India has yet another reason to celebrate the achievements of its daughters. Shailza Sood Dasgupta, who belongs to Rajpur, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, has been selected as a Finalist for the prestigious IWTTF Awards 2026 in the category of Woman Leader for Impact and Inclusion – Entrepreneur.

The IWTTF Awards recognise women leaders and innovators who are creating meaningful and measurable impact in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry and helping advance diversity, equity and inclusion at local, national and international levels.

For Shailza, this international recognition is not simply another professional milestone. It is the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, vision and a deep commitment to creating positive change.

A Journey from the Hills to the World

Shailza’s roots lie in Rajpur, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, but her vision has never been confined by geography.

Her journey represents the spirit of a new India—an India where talent from its towns, villages and mountains can reach the international stage through determination, innovation and purposeful work.

Her contribution to travel and tourism reflects a broader understanding of the industry: tourism is not merely about destinations and travellers; it can also become a powerful instrument for community empowerment, sustainable livelihoods, women’s participation and inclusive growth.

This vision has earned her recognition on an international platform.

Inspired by a Distinguished Family Legacy

Shailza comes from a family where knowledge, education, discipline and public contribution have been deeply valued.

Her father, Dr. R. D. Sood, is a renowned scientist and professor, whose distinguished academic and professional journey has been an important source of inspiration for her.

The intellectual environment of the family, together with the affection, guidance, encouragement and values provided by her parents, has helped Shailza develop the confidence to pursue an independent path and build a career driven by purpose.

Behind this international recognition stands not only an accomplished professional, but also a daughter whose achievements bring immense pride to her parents.

The role of parents in shaping a successful journey is often invisible to the world. Their guidance, sacrifices, encouragement and faith provide the foundation upon which achievements are built. Shailza’s story is a beautiful reminder of that enduring bond.

Leadership with a Purpose

What makes Shailza’s recognition particularly meaningful is the emphasis on impact and inclusion.

Her work demonstrates that entrepreneurship can go beyond commercial success. It can create opportunities, connect communities with wider markets and encourage more responsible and sustainable models of tourism.

By bringing people, places and experiences together, her work contributes to a tourism ecosystem in which local communities can have a meaningful stake in the opportunities created by the industry.

This combination of entrepreneurship, social responsibility and inclusion is precisely the kind of leadership increasingly recognised on the global stage.

An Achievement Beyond Geography

An achievement of this magnitude cannot be described merely as a success for one town or one state.

Yes, Rajpur and Palampur can proudly call Shailza their daughter. Himachal Pradesh can celebrate her achievement. But above all, this is a moment of pride for India.

Her journey reflects the enormous potential of Indian women to lead, innovate and create impact across international boundaries.

At a time when Indian women are making their mark in science, technology, business, entrepreneurship, hospitality, sports and public life, Shailza’s recognition adds another inspiring chapter to that story.

A Proud Moment for Her Parents—and for India

For Dr. R. D. Sood and his family, seeing their daughter recognised internationally must be a deeply emotional and proud moment.

A father’s legacy is not measured only by his own professional achievements. It is also reflected in the confidence, values and vision he passes on to the next generation.

As a renowned scientist and professor, Dr. R. D. Sood has built his own distinguished identity through knowledge and dedication. Today, his daughter is creating her own identity through entrepreneurship, leadership and impact.

It is this beautiful combination of heritage and individuality, guidance and independent achievement that makes Shailza’s journey particularly inspiring.

TRICITY TIMES Salutes a Proud Daughter of India

TRICITY TIMES proudly congratulates Shailza Sood Dasgupta on being selected as a finalist for the IWTTF Awards 2026.

Her achievement is a matter of pride for her parents, her family, Rajpur and Palampur, Himachal Pradesh—and, above all, for India.

We salute her dedication, perseverance and commitment to making a difference through her work.

We also acknowledge with deep respect the role of her parents, whose love, values, guidance and encouragement have helped provide the foundation for her remarkable journey.

From the hills of Himachal to an international platform, Shailza Sood Dasgupta represents the confidence, talent and aspirations of an India that is increasingly making its presence felt across the world.

**She is not just a daughter of Rajpur or Himachal.

She is a daughter of India—and a true Pride of India.**

TRICITY TIMES wishes Shailza Sood Dasgupta every success at the IWTTF Awards 2026 and in all her future endeavours.