Padma Bhushan Usha Uthup

Renowned Singer

At Ma Foundation, Ms Usha Uthup’s cultural influence and commitment to social causes help amplify outreach, inspire community engagement, and promote inclusivity through the arts. An iconic Indian playback singer, Ms. Usha Uthup is celebrated for her unique voice and contributions to pop, jazz, and playback music since the 1960s. A prominent figure in Indian music since the 1970s, she has received a Filmfare Award, and was honoured by the Government of India with the Padma Shri in 2011 and the Padma Bhushan in 2024 for her contribution in the field of arts. She has performed in over 15 Indian languages and 4 foreign languages.

Arun Lal

Veteran Cricketer

A passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, Mr. Lal brings his leadership, public engagement, and mentoring experience to Ma Foundation, supporting youth-focused initiatives and awareness efforts. A former Indian cricketer and renowned commentator, Mr. Arun Lal played for India as a right-handed batsman. After moving from Delhi to Kolkata in 1979, he founded a cricket academy and later joined the Bengal cricket team in 1981, where he now serves as Head Coach. He is also a regular columnist and TV commentator, known for his insightful cricket analysis.

Ishaat Hussain

Former Finance Director of Tata Sons

At Ma Foundation, his extensive expertise in finance, governance, and regulatory frameworks strengthens strategic planning, fiscal oversight, and institutional credibility. A seasoned leader with 40+ years in the Tata Group, Mr. Hussain has held key roles including Finance Director at Tata Sons and Tata Steel. A Chartered Accountant (ICAEW) with an Economics degree from Delhi University, he is also a Harvard AMP graduate. He chairs SEBI’s SCODA committee and has served on national reform panels. Beyond corporate roles, he contributes as a trustee to India Foundation for the Arts and The Marg Foundation.

Lavanya Raghavendran

Manufacturing Manager, SLB

Lavanya Raghavendran brings global engineering expertise and operational leadership to strengthen innovation, quality, and strategic governance across programs. Lavanya’s global exposure and commitment to best practices make her a valuable contributor to the Foundation’s long-term impact and governance. She is a seasoned mechanical engineer with 18 years of international experience at SLB (formerly Schlumberger), spanning roles in design, sustaining engineering, quality, manufacturing, and leadership across China, the United States, Malaysia, and India. Lavanya has led cross-cultural and multidisciplinary teams with a strong focus on innovation, operational excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.

Geeta Gopalakrishnan

Founder & Managing Trustee of Ma Foundation

Geeta Gopalakrishnan brings over three decades of experience in advertising, notably as Creative Director at Trikaya Grey. A pioneer in using Hinglish in advertising, she has led several award-winning campaigns across industries. Deeply committed to social impact, she has applied her creative expertise to fundraising initiatives for Tata Medical Centre’s paediatric cancer expansion, and supporting causes like Sadhana School for Special Children. Now devoted full-time to philanthropy, Geeta channels the power of advertising to drive fundraising and awareness for destitute mothers—focusing on nutrition, healthcare, education, and skills development. “Giving with a difference” is the ethos that defines her journey.