ICONS
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” - Simon Sinek
The ICONS series is our flagship leadership interaction platform at Manfest-Varchasva, bringing together individuals who have truly lived iconic journeys across business, governance, public policy, entrepreneurship, and social impact. With a legacy spanning over two decades, ICONS has hosted some of the most respected voices of our time, inspiring generations of students through candid conversations, lived experiences, and transformative insights. Continuing this rich tradition, Manfest-Varchasva 2026 is proud to present an exceptional line-up of leaders who will address participants as part of the ICONS sessions this year.
The confirmed ICONS speakers for 2026 include:
- Mr. Ashwini Tiwari - Managing Director, State Bank of India
- Mr. Sunil Mehta - Chairman, IndusInd Bank; Former Chairman, PNB & YES Bank
- Mr. Anil Swarup – Former IAS Officer, Author, Founder – Nexus of Good
- Mr. Gaurav Chaudhary – Technology YouTuber & Entrepreneur
- Mr. Prashant Desai – Director, Everstone Capital; Health & Wellness Influencer
…and many more distinguished leaders from business, policy, and public life are set to join us.
Through ICONS, participants will gain rare access to the perspectives, decision-making frameworks, and leadership philosophies of individuals who have shaped institutions and industries-making it a defining experience of Manfest-Varchasva 2026.
ICONS
Ashwini Tiwari
We are honoured to host Mr. Ashwini Tiwari, Managing Director of the State Bank of India, as a distinguished speaker at this year’s Leaders’ Express. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades in banking and financial services, Mr. Tiwari has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s public sector banking landscape.
He has held several key leadership positions within SBI, contributing significantly to areas such as corporate banking, international operations, and strategic transformation. Known for his deep understanding of financial systems, governance, and institution-building, Mr. Tiwari brings a rare blend of operational expertise and visionary leadership.
His session is expected to offer valuable insights into leadership at scale, managing complexity in large institutions, and navigating change in an evolving financial ecosystem.
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Sunil Mehta
We are delighted to welcome Mr. Sunil Mehta, Chairman of IndusInd Bank and former Chairman of PNB and YES Bank, to Leaders’ Express 2026. A highly respected leader in India’s banking and financial services sector, Mr. Mehta has been at the forefront of major institutional transformations.
With extensive experience across public and private sector banks, advisory roles, and board-level governance, he has played a key role in banking reforms, stressed asset resolution, and systemic risk management. His leadership journey offers invaluable lessons in crisis management, trust-building, and long-term value creation.
Mr. Mehta’s interaction promises a rare perspective on boardroom leadership, financial resilience, and the future of banking in India.
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Anil Swarup
We are proud to host Mr. Anil Swarup, former IAS officer, author, and Founder of Nexus of Good, as part of this year’s ICONS lineup. With a distinguished career in public administration, Mr. Swarup has served in key leadership roles across multiple ministries of the Government of India.
Known for his work in governance reform, education, and social impact, he has been a strong advocate of ethical leadership and citizen-driven change. Through Nexus of Good, he continues to spotlight inspiring stories of grassroots leadership and positive transformation.
His session will offer powerful insights into purpose-driven leadership, public policy, and the role of individuals in nation-building.
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Gaurav Chaudhary
We are excited to welcome Mr. Gaurav Chaudhary, one of India’s most influential technology creators and entrepreneurs, to Leaders’ Express 2026. Widely known for simplifying technology for millions, he has built a massive global following through his digital platforms.
An engineer by training and a creator by passion, Mr. Chaudhary has successfully leveraged content, consistency, and credibility to build a powerful personal brand. His journey exemplifies the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and digital influence.
Participants can look forward to learning about innovation, content-led businesses, and building scalable impact in the digital age.
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Prashant Desai
We are delighted to host Mr. Prashant Desai, Director at Everstone Capital and a prominent voice in the health and wellness space. With deep experience in private equity and strategic investing, Mr. Desai brings a unique perspective on business growth, capital allocation, and long-term value creation.
Beyond finance, he has emerged as a trusted advocate for fitness, discipline, and holistic well-being, inspiring thousands through his work and digital presence. His journey reflects the importance of balance, resilience, and consistency in both professional and personal life. His session will explore leadership beyond the boardroom—where health, mindset, and performance intersect.
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