TOI Women: A look at the female artists who are influential environmentalists and animal activists

In a world packed with glitz and glamour, some leading female artists are in for a bigger purpose. They moved beyond the silver screen and became strong advocates for the environment and for animals that cannot speak for themselves.

They lead by example, run powerful campaigns, and use their massive platforms to demand change.

Dia Mirza

Dia Mirza is the undisputed torchbearer of environmental activism. The UN appointed her as the UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador for India in 2017. She walks the talk every single day. She made headlines in 2021 by opting for a completely sustainable, plastic-free wedding performed by a female priest. She also serves as the brand ambassador for the Wildlife Trust of India.

She actively campaigns for the protection of elephants and tigers.

Bhumi Pednekar

Bhumi Pednekar launched her pan-India campaign ‘Climate Warrior’ in 2019 to mobilize citizens against climate change. The UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) appointed her as their National Advocate for SDGs in India in 2023. She doesn't just post online; she actively participates in beach cleanups, notably at Versova Beach. She uses her social media to spotlight real-life heroes and startups working on waste segregation and sustainability.

Anushka Sharma

Anushka Sharma is a fierce advocate for animal rights and was named PETA’s Person of the Year in 2017. She turned vegetarian in 2015 to reduce her carbon footprint. She launched the campaign ‘PAWsitive’ to raise awareness about the impact of noise pollution on animals during Diwali in 2015. Her passion deeply inspired her husband, Virat Kohli, who opened two animal shelters in Mumbai in 2021. It was opened through his foundation.

In 2023, the power couple merged their philanthropic efforts to launch SeVVA. This joint non-profit now oversees its dedicated work for animal welfare together.

Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt launched her ecological initiative ‘Co-exist’ in 2017. It was to promote harmony between humans, animals, and the environment. PETA named her their 2021 Person of the Year for her work in support of an animal-friendly fashion industry. She also launched ‘Ed-a-Mamma’ in 2020, which is a sustainable clothing brand for children.

It uses eco-friendly fabrics and plastic-free buttons. She actively champions the adoption of stray cats and dogs.

Richa Chadha

Richa Chadha is a vocal proponent of veganism. She switched to a plant-based diet in 2014. She believes that a vegan lifestyle is the key to reducing one's carbon footprint. She was honored by PETA with the Best Vegan Style Icon Award in 2020. It was for her commitment to cruelty-free fashion. She actively advocates for sustainable clothing.

She also famously challenges the stigma of repeating outfits on the red carpet to fight the wastefulness of fast fashion.

Raveena Tandon

Raveena Tandon is a passionate wildlife photographer and conservationist. The Maharashtra government appointed her as the Brand Ambassador for Sanjay Gandhi National Park in 2018. She actively works on ground-level rescue operations for leopards and snakes in urban Mumbai. She uses her photography to highlight the beauty of India's jungles and fight against illegal encroachment on forest lands.

Shraddha Kapoor

Shraddha Kapoor stood on the frontlines during the ‘Save Aarey’ protests in 2019. She joined common citizens in the rain to form a human chain against the cutting of 2,700 trees for a Metro car shed. She frequently speaks up against animal cruelty and partnered with PETA to launch a cookbook promoting a vegetarian diet. She often shares tips on how to live a more minimalistic and earth-friendly life.