M3M Foundation Beneficiaries Take Centre Stage at TOIFA 2025
Ten real-life heroes from flagship social programmes honoured at Mumbai’s prestigious film awards ceremony
Mumbai, December 6, 2025 – The Times of India Film Awards (TOIFA) 2025 witnessed a powerful moment as the glamour of cinema made way for stories of courage and transformation. M3M Foundation, the philanthropic arm of presenting sponsor M3M, brought ten beneficiaries from its nine flagship programmes to the national platform, celebrating their journeys of resilience and empowerment.
The beneficiaries, representing programmes including Sarvodya, iMpower, Saakshar, Kaushal Sambhal, Kartavya, Vanjeevan, Sankalp, Lakshya, and Mashaal, stood on stage during the National Anthem to a standing ovation from an audience of film personalities and dignitaries. For many, this marked their first flight, first visit to Mumbai, and first experience of such a grand stage – a transformative milestone in itself.
Among the group, two individuals received special recognition for their extraordinary achievements. Suryakant Yadav, a Lakshya scholar and currently World No. 3 in Para-Badminton Doubles with over twenty international medals, was honoured for his sporting excellence and Olympic aspirations. Lakshmi, a 52-year-old Paniyar tribal woman from Pothukolly, was acknowledged for revolutionising her livelihood through the Sankalp Programme. Her dairy farming venture and biogas unit have brought clean energy, stable income, and renewed dignity to her family.
Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, presented the honours during the ceremony. “Recognising these individuals on a platform like TOIFA is a powerful reminder that courage exists in the most ordinary lives,” she said. “Their journeys motivate us to keep expanding opportunities that help people rise with dignity and hope.”
The Foundation’s presence at TOIFA 2025 underscored its commitment to celebrating real heroes whose stories embody resilience, empowerment, and meaningful social change. Through programmes spanning education, healthcare, skill development, and community welfare, M3M Foundation continues to enable sustainable and inclusive development across India.
The moment served as a reminder that true stardom lies not just in cinema, but in the quiet courage of individuals who overcome adversity to transform their lives and communities.
