In the vibrant city of Mumbai, amidst the sounds of cutlery and tempting aromas, Neeti Goel stands out not just as a successful restaurateur but as a compassionate force for change. Hailing from Chandigarh, Neeti, daughter of the renowned industrialist Late SK Gupta, has not only carved her niche in the competitive world of gastronomy but has also woven a tapestry of hope and transformation in the lives of many.
Neeti's culinary ventures include the acclaimed 'Keiba', 'Osstaad', 'Madras Diaries', and 'Madras Express' in Mumbai. Additionally, she has created the brand 'Amore Stays,' offering premium staycations in Alibaugh. Awards and accolades have followed her journey, with recognition as the 'Restaurateur of The Year' in 2019 at the Eiffel Tower in Paris and her restaurant securing the 2nd position among the Top 50 restaurants globally. In 2022, she was honored as one of the top 50 influential Indians at the London Bridge in London.
However, it's not just the culinary world where Neeti's impact reverberates. Amidst the glamour of her restaurant empire, Neeti's heart beats for philanthropy and societal transformation. When the pandemic cast its long shadow, she co-founded the initiative 'Khaanachiye.' What began as serving 1200 free meals to the needy quickly evolved into a colossal effort, reaching over 80 lakh meals and distributing 60 thousand ration kits to the homeless. Neeti and her team embraced 32 orphanages, supported 800 sex workers, and provided 50 thousand sanitary napkins.
The cyclone Nisarg wreaked havoc, leaving devastation in its wake. Neeti, through the LB Trust, stepped in to rebuild 1000 homes that were destroyed. Her commitment to aiding those in distress didn't stop there. Teaming up with actor Sonu Sood, she co-founded the 'Ghar Bhejo' campaign, facilitating the safe return of 1.5 lakh migrants to their homes. Transit camps were set up, providing essentials to weary travelers. Ration kits reached Varanasi, supporting communities like potters, boatmen, and weavers during the lockdown.
But Neeti's mission expands far beyond immediate relief. In the remote villages of Uttar Pradesh, she encountered challenges faced by women – victims of domestic violence and restricted access to education. Neeti empowered them, providing self-defense training, basic education, and creating a network of support among 25 women in one village. The movement spread, reaching thousands in other villages. Employment opportunities bloomed through sewing centers, vegetable carts, and crafting ventures, demonstrating that empowerment is not just a word but a lived reality.
The 'Nari Nitti' project, initiated under Neeti's leadership, focuses on women below the poverty line in rural areas. By donating cows to those in need, widows found a means to earn a livelihood through selling milk, cow dung, and ghee. Neeti's vision extends beyond charity; it's about creating sustainable pathways for women to lead dignified lives. The goal is to touch the lives of 1 lakh women, recognizing that transforming one woman can positively impact an entire household.
Neeti's journey is inseparable from the support of her husband, Pranay Goel, and the LB Trust. Together, they have shown that philanthropy, when coupled with genuine concern and strategic initiatives, can bring about tangible change. Neeti emphasizes, "A woman is a full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform." Her projects reflect this belief, acknowledging the innate potential of every woman and working towards providing them with opportunities.
As Neeti expands her projects to Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra under 'Nari Nitti,' the vision is clear – not just a few states but the entire nation. Neeti's call to action resonates: "This is only possible when people come forward and be a part of this movement Nari Nitti and join the mission of atmanirbhar Bharat." Her work stands as a testament to the transformative power of empathy, determination, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
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