Usha Uthup is an acclaimed musician whose career began in 1969 at a Chennai nightclub called ‘Nine Gems’ and she has recorded more than a hundred albums since. She sings in 17 Indian and 8 foreign languages. She has served as a role model for generations of young Indians and has been an unwavering ambassador for traditional Indian values with her signature Kanjeevaram saree and flower in her hair.

Sanjoy K. Roy is Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, which produces over 33 festivals in 42 cities and 17 countries, including the world’s largest literary gathering — the Jaipur Literature Festival and international editions of JLF. He is a founder-trustee of Salaam Baalak Trust. Roy is the Co-chair of the Art and Culture Committee of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. He  has been conferred the honorary degree of Doctor of the University honoris causa by University of York, UK, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the arts and society.