Inauguration of India's First Happiest Places to Work Awards

The Happiest Places to Work Awards have been launched in India to recognize organizations that excel in fostering happiness in the workplace. Set to debut in a grand ceremony in Mumbai, these awards aim to highlight companies that prioritize employee experience and create positive work environments. Led by notable figures from the corporate sector, the awards will be evaluated by a distinguished jury. This initiative is a significant step towards acknowledging the importance of workplace culture in driving business success. Join us as we explore the details of this groundbreaking event and its implications for organizations across the country.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 16, 2026, 09:00 IST

Introduction to the Happiest Places to Work Awards

Happiest Places To Work Awards: The 'Happiest Places To Work Awards' have been launched to honor organizations in India that excel in creating happiness in the workplace. This initiative marks the first of its kind in the country.

Event Details

The inaugural ceremony is set to take place at the end of July in Mumbai, featuring prominent figures from the corporate world.

Purpose of the Awards

In an era where workplace culture and employee experience significantly impact business outcomes, these awards aim to spotlight organizations that consistently foster a positive and meaningful work environment.

Judging Panel

The awards will be presided over by Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Group, and evaluated by a distinguished jury comprising leading figures from the business world and HR experts.

Jury Members

Jury Members and Their Roles

Harsh Goenka, Chairman, RPG Group

Achal Khanna, CEO, SHRM, APAC and MENA

Harit Nagpal, MD and CEO, Tata Play

Pavitra Singh, CHRO and Vice President, PepsiCo India and South Asia

Dr. Atul Hegde, Founder and Chairman, YAAP Digital

Dr. Prajjwal Saha, Founder and Editor-in-Chief, HR Katha

Neetu Bhushan, Director of Human Resources, South Asia, Nestlé

Pushp Kumar Nair, Executive Director of Human Resource Development, BPCL

Sunita Cherian, Former Chief Culture Officer and SVP Corporate HR, Wipro

Significance of the Awards

Harsh Goenka remarked, “Workplace happiness is becoming a central focus for organizations in terms of their progress and performance. Platforms like this help bring such discussions to the forefront.”

Raj Nayak, Founder of Happiest Places to Work®, added, “Organizations often overlook the daily experiences of their employees. These awards recognize companies that consistently prioritize how employees feel while working.”

What Makes the Happiest Places to Work Awards Unique?

Unique Aspects of the Awards

The Happiest Places To Work Awards™ celebrate organizations that take employee experiences seriously. The evaluation process is based on a structured 'Happiness Dialogue' supported by a 'Culture Audit' and final jury review. Organizations of all sizes and sectors can participate.

Application Process for the Awards

How to Apply for the Awards?

The application process is straightforward, designed to give organizations clear insights into how their employees truly feel about their work.

Event Highlights

Key Highlights of the Event

India's first award focused entirely on workplace happiness

Participation from CEOs, CHROs, and business leaders

Recognition across all sectors and categories

A platform for discussions that focus on real culture rather than just policies

About Happiest Places to Work®

Happiest Places to Work® collaborates with organizations to understand and enhance employee experiences in practical and meaningful ways.

For media inquiries, partnership, and participation details, please contact: 9372254544