Business Divas Of India: Trailblazing Women by CIO Women Magazine

OF INDIA: TRAILBLAZING WOMEN

Busine Divas From Bollywood Starlet to Global Icon: The Astonishing Journey of Priyanka Chopra Pg. 10 3 Key Tips to Empower Women-led Small Businesses Pg. 40

The City of Petra: An Ancient Civilization hidden under the Sand Pg. 32

WWW.CIOWOMENMAGAZINE.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

Savha

KUTTAN Omnicuris | CEO

A Visionary Trailblazer

Transforming Healthcare

EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP

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FROM EDITOR’S DESK

“We need to accept that we won’t always make the right decisions, that we’ll screw up royally sometimes – understanding that failure is not the opposite of success, it’s part of success.” – Arianna Hufngton

Empowering the Indian Womenpreneurship! Greetings and welcome to the latest issue of our magazine, where we shine a spotlight on some of the most inspiring and trailblazing women in the business world of India. Titled “Business Divas of India: Trailblazing Women,” this issue aims to celebrate the resilience, intelligence, and indomitable spirit of women who have not only broken the glass ceiling but have shattered it into a million pieces. From corporate boardrooms to startup ecosystems, our featured women have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, innovative thinking, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. As you turn the pages, you'll find stories of triumph over adversity, strategic brilliance, and a dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable business environment. We delve into the realms of finance, technology, healthcare, and more to showcase the versatility and prowess of these extraordinary women. Their accomplishments are not just a testament to their individual capabilities but also a reflection of the changing landscape of the Indian business world. Beyond the success stories, we also explore the challenges that these women faced on their journeys. Through candid interviews and insightful narratives, we hope to shed light on the hurdles that women in business often encounter and how these Business Divas navigated through them, emerging stronger and more determined than ever. On the cover of this issue, we have featured Savitha Kuttan (CEO of Omnicuris). In addition to these profiles, we have included expert perspectives, opinion pieces, and thought provoking articles that delve into the broader issues surrounding gender diversity in the workplace. We believe that fostering a more inclusive business environment is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage that benefits organizations and society as a whole. Thank you for joining us on this celebration of resilience, innovation, and empowerment. We hope that the stories within these pages leave you inspired and ready to embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.

Utkarsh D.

20 Savitha Kuttan

CONTENTS

COVER STORY

First Lady Women

From Bollywood Starlet to Global Icon: The Astonishing Journey of Priyanka Chopra

Monuments

The City of Petra: An Ancient Civilization hidden under the Sand

Article

3 Key Tips to Empower Women-led Small Businesses

An actress, singer, model, and producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas is an influential global icon who is also a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador and a former Miss World. An actor turned philanthropist has redefined success and broken all the boundaries with her talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Priyanka has conquered the realm of not only Bollywood but also Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. This article embarks you on the journey of Priyanka Chopra also known as Desi Girl becoming a global icon, her achievements, and the impact of her work at the international level. Series of Achievements: Priyanka’s journey from Bollywood to Hollywood exemplifies her resilience, talent, and versatility. She has shattered the stereotypes and redefined success by impacting at the international level. Here’s the list of her achievements:

LIST OF

ACHIEVEMEN

PRIYANKA

CHOPRA: 12

NTS

Miss World 2000 Two National Film Awards Five Film Fare Awards

Highest-paid actress in India Star of the ABC series Quantico Star of the American television series Baywatch

Advocate for women’s empowerment and education

United Nations Goodwill Ambassador

Critic of the caste system in India

Following the triumph, Desi Girl started acting in Bollywood, the Indian Film Industry. “The Hero: Love Story of a Spy” was her debut lm in which she showcased her acting skills and ventured into the entertainment industry. She is known for choosing versatile roles in Hindi movies like Aitraaz, Bur, 7 Khoon Maaf, Fashion, Bajirao Mastani, Mary Kom, etc. Priyanka portrayed her acting talent with a wide range of characters in these lms for which she received great acclamation in various award functions. After establishing herself as the most successful and unique Bollywood actress, she turned to the Hollywood entertainment industry.

The Cosmic Story of Success

Priyanka Chopra Jonas, the name resonates with talent, beauty, and charisma has become one of the most successful personalities in the global entertainment industry. The former Miss World (2000) represented India in the beauty pageant and captivated the judges' attention with her poise and intelligence. This prestigious title catapulted her into the limelight and opened doors to the world of showbiz.

Life Lessons On Being Extraordinary From Priyanka Chopra Jonas

In the dazzling world of the environment, very few stars shine like Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Her extraordinary journey of becoming an international icon showcases her versatility and pioneering spirit. Here are a few life lessons you can learn from her: Creating and Cultivating a Life of Happiness It is a very important life lesson you can learn from Priyanka as according to her, if you know your selfworth as a person, you feel empowered and make efforts to reach your fullest potential and capabilities. She has created and cultivated a life of happiness through her philanthropic activities and entertaining people through her unique acting skills. Priyanka exemplifies that sense of self-worth is the root cause of her happiness. The longest relationship you have is with yourself Priyanka looks up to her parents as the most influential people in her life while growing up. She had a meaningful relationship with her father, and that’s why she was deeply affected when he passed away. During such tough times, she learned that it is a crucial thing to build a healthy relationship with yourself. By choosing yourself over anything else, you don’t allow others to dictate your life. She stated this fact while shooting her movie, The White Tiger.

Age is just a number The actress tied the knot with Nick Jonas in 2018 when she was 36 years old and he was 25 years old. The age gap between both of them has never stopped her from owning her relationship with him. Furthermore, she became a mother in her late 30s and symbolized that age is just a number. Despite being at the peak of her career, Priyanka Chopra stood up for accepting motherhood through surrogacy and said there is no perfect time to become a mother. The sky is the limit Priyanka is the most suitable actress who can prove the phrase, “Sky is the limit”. Her career growth is the best illustration of crossing your boundaries. She started her journey as an actress in Bollywood and right now ruling the hearts of people like no actress did before. Though she chose to work in Hollywood, she never forgot her roots and represented the Indian culture with full of grace and humbleness. She taught that taking risks is an essential factor in your life and by this, you get to open gates for new opportunities.

Personal Milestones Priyanka’s entrepreneurial spirit has manifested in her ventures outside the entertainment industry. She has been in the limelight due to her marriage to the American singer and actor Nick Jonas. Their marriage has been seen as a crosscultural union to celebrate the love to transcend geographical boundaries. Her fans admire her eﬀorts and the struggle she made throughout the journey. She continues to blaze for upcoming actors. Additionally, she continued to be in the news due to her baby daughter Malti Marie Chopra Jonas who was conceived through a surrogate. The couple enjoying family holidays on world-famous beaches and resorts have captured major applause on the internet.

Being financially independent Once at a social event, Priyanka Chopra said, “It doesn’t matter whose daughter you are. It doesn’t matter who you marry. You will be financially independent.” The ability to support oneself financially for day-to-day expenses is the foremost important thing in the path of empowerment. In Indian society, it has been taught that homemaking is the primary job of women, and achieving career goals is the secondary one. She started working when she was 17 years old and her mother supported her, however, she asks that nobody should wait for someone to say that this is the opportunity and do it. You should fly on your own.

C P CONCLUSION

The life story of Priyanka Chopra Jonas is a testament to the profound connection between cosmic energy and human destiny. She was included in the list of 100 Most Inuential People of Time Magazine in 2016 and has been featured in Forbes’ 100 Most Inuential Women of the Year. Coming from a very small town situated in India she has conquered the dazzling highlights in her career. In short, no dream is too big for you to achieve and with the right mindset, anything is possible. We hope you enjoyed reading our article and were inspired by Priyanka’s incredible journey.

Savha

KUTTAN A Visionary Trailblazer Transforming Healthcare

EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP CEO

omen leaders have emerged as catalysts for change, breaking barriers and reshaping industries. Their narratives are stories of determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of success. These women have become synonymous with empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to dream big and challenge the status quo. As pillars of strength and vision, these trailblazers have achieved remarkable feats and fostered environments that encourage diversity and innovation.

Savitha Kuttan emerges as a beacon of inspiration and innovation among these inﬂuential trailblazers. As the founder of Omnicuris, Kuttan’s journey is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to advancing healthcare education. With a dedication to excellence, Kuttan stands tall among the most inﬂuential women leaders, leaving an extraordinary legacy in her wake.

COVER STORY CIO Women Magazine | 21

KUTTAN’S JOURNEY Kuttan’s leadership journey, from her roots as a healthcare consultant in the United States to founding Omnicuris, reﬂects a commitment to driving positive change in healthcare education. In the initial phase of her career, navigating the complexities of healthcare consulting equipped her with strategic problem-solving skills, laying a robust foundation for the challenges ahead. Transitioning to a leadership role in a multinational pharmaceutical giant as vice president, Kuttan gained invaluable insights into the pharmaceutical industry and recognized the transformative potential of digital technology in healthcare professionals’ marketing eﬀorts.

The genesis of Omnicuris marked a visionary step driven by the mission to bridge the gap between evolving medical knowledge and the dynamic needs of healthcare professionals. As the founder, Kuttan’s responsibilities include steering the company’s strategic vision, fostering innovation, building partnerships, and ensuring alignment with evolving healthcare needs. Omnicuris, under her leadership, stands as a transformative force in healthcare education, leveraging technology to democratize access and revolutionize the way medical professionals engage with continuous learning.

Kuttan’s strategic partnerships and collaborations extend beyond traditional boundaries, involving medical associations, universities, pharmaceutical organizations, and other key stakeholders. These collaborations enrich the platform’s content and contribute to a vibrant healthcare education network. Looking ahead, the vision for Omnicuris involves further advancements in educational technology, expanded partnerships, and a global hub for medical education. Kuttan’s journey underscores a dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of medical education.

COVER STORY Transformative Leadership Kuttan epitomizes transformative leadership, showcasing a distinctive amalgamation of qualities that transcend gender norms. Her leadership style, marked by inclusivity, adaptability, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, not only defines her role as a woman leader but also propels Omnicuris toward success and innovation. Kuttan’s resilience in entrepreneurship inspires her team, demonstrating tenacity in overcoming challenges. Effective internal and external communication fortifies her leadership, essential for conveying the vision and building meaningful relationships. Kuttan’s collaborative leadership fosters teamwork and strategic partnerships, recognizing the interconnected nature of the healthcare sector. Adaptability emerges as a critical quality, ensuring Omnicuris remains responsive to dynamic industry needs. As a tech-savvy entrepreneur, she adeptly navigates the technology-driven landscape of healthcare education. Her empathy and emotional intelligence contribute to a supportive work environment, emphasizing the human aspect of leadership. Global Healthcare Education Leader Omnicuris is a trailblazer in global healthcare education, aiming to empower professionals worldwide through cutting-edge medical training. The company envisions a borderless world where healthcare knowledge seamlessly transcends geographical boundaries, fostering continuous learning and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, integrity, and inclusivity, Omnicuris pioneers innovation in medical education, leveraging technology and interdisciplinary partnerships.

Operating with transparency and adaptability, Omnicuris stands at the forefront of transforming medical education into a dynamic global ecosystem. The company’s patientcentric approach ensures healthcare professionals are well-equipped for optimal patient care. Strategic goals include expanding global reach, incorporating advanced technology, forging key partnerships, and creating a comprehensive ecosystem supporting continuous learning. Omnicuris, through research and development initiatives, contributes to evolving medical education, reflected in its commitment to quality assurance. By fostering an engaged community of healthcare professionals, Omnicuris promotes knowledge sharing, collaboration, and networking, shaping the future of medical education globally. Navigating Early Challenges Omnicuris encountered transformative challenges that played a crucial role in shaping its trajectory. The first significant hurdle involved establishing trust within the intricate healthcare ecosystem, where transparency and collaboration became the operational bedrock. By prioritizing open dealings, clear communication, and evidencebased, industry-aligned educational content, Omnicuris showcased a steadfast commitment to integrity, thus building the necessary trust.

eﬀectively overcoming the challenge of securing the ﬁrst few doctors as users. Long-Standing Success Omnicuris’ enduring success stems from a strategic blend of visionary leadership, commitment to core principles, and adaptability to industry dynamics. The leaders with deep insights into healthcare and education have steered the company through challenges, anticipating trends and positioning Omnicuris as an industry trailblazer. The success of Omnicuris is based on transparency and collaboration. Openness in operations, clear communication, and evidence-based educational content have fostered trust among stakeholders. Collaborations with medical associations and NGOs have expanded the company’s reach, establishing it as a trusted entity in the medical education landscape. The company’s user-centric approach, marked by customization, accessibility, and continuous innovation, has been pivotal. Omnicuris’ adaptability to technological advancements and industry trends ensures it remains at the forefront of innovation. Ethical practices, strategic partnerships, and a focus on measurable outcomes contribute to Omnicuris’ reputation for delivering tangible results. Elevating Medical Education

Another challenge was securing the initial user base and compelling healthcare professionals to adopt the platform. Omnicuris addressed this by adopting a user-centric approach, customizing modules, ensuring accessibility, and promoting continuous engagement. These eﬀorts attracted doctors to the platform and fostered a sense of community,

Omnicuris, recognized as the “Netﬂix for doctors,” stands out in online medical education with an array of exclusive products and services tailored to the evolving needs of healthcare professionals. At its core, Omnicuris oﬀers a comprehensive platform that serves as a vast repository of medical knowledge,

CIO Women Magazine | 23

COVER STORY delivering short medical updates, certification courses, and Continuing Medical Education (CME) accredited programs for credit renewals. This innovative approach reflects Omnicuris’ commitment to providing doctors with a global, versatile, and enriching learning experience. Omnicuris provides on-demand access to a diverse library of medical content. This aligns with the modern lifestyle of healthcare professionals, offering flexibility in learning and ensuring accessibility whenever needed. The platform curates multiple short medical updates, recognizing the value of concise information in the fastpaced healthcare environment. Beyond updates, Omnicuris offers comprehensive certification courses, allowing doctors to pursue specialized learning paths and CME-accredited programs crucial for professional development. Omnicuris positions itself as an “ocean of latest medical updates,” emphasizing the depth and breadth of its content offerings. This extensive repository ensures healthcare professionals have access to cutting-edge information across various medical disciplines. What sets Omnicuris apart is its commitment to a versatile learning experience, accommodating diverse preferences and schedules. The platform’s user-friendly design, ondemand nature, and continuous innovation reinforce its dedication to providing exclusive, accessible, and convenient products and services. Beyond education, Omnicuris fosters a community among healthcare professionals, promoting discussions, insights sharing, and global networking.

Adapting to Dynamic Healthcare Needs Omnicuris prioritizes adaptability to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals effectively. This commitment is anchored in a proactive approach to assessing professionals’ needs through surveys, interviews, and direct interactions. By staying ahead of industry trends, Omnicuris dynamically adjusts its offerings, ensuring alignment with the rapidly changing medical knowledge and practice landscape. The platform delivers current and relevant medical information by regularly reviewing and updating its content. Recognizing diverse learning preferences, Omnicuris provides various formats, including short updates, certification courses, and Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs. This versatility allows healthcare professionals to personalize their learning experiences based on individual preferences and schedules. Integral to Omnicuris’ adaptability is user feedback, which is actively encouraged for iterative development.

Technological Ingenuity Omnicuris seamlessly incorporates cutting-edge technology to redefine and elevate its offerings. Omnicuris is at the forefront of educational innovation, integrating advanced technology to redefine and promote its offerings for modern healthcare professionals. The company’s

commitment to staying ahead in technological integration ensures a dynamic, interactive, and accessible learning experience that exceeds the expectations of healthcare practitioners. Omnicuris initiates its technical integration with interactive elearning modules utilizing multimedia elements to present complex medical concepts visually. The company’s

dedication to creating immersive learning experiences acknowledges diverse learning styles within the healthcare community. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications enhance medical education by providing an experiential dimension, improving clinical decision-making skills through simulated scenarios.

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Kuttan’s leadership journey, from her roots as a healthcare consultant in the United States to founding Omnicuris, reﬂects a commitment to driving positive change in healthcare education.

In response to the on-the-go nature of healthcare professionals, Omnicuris prioritizes accessibility through mobile-friendly platforms and seamless integration into mobile applications. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), the platform tailors content recommendations based on user behavior, offering a personalized learning experience. Omnicuris adopts innovative technologies such as telemedicine integration, blockchain for secure credentialing, and data analytics for performance insights. Gamification elements add a competitive and interactive dimension, while collaborative learning platforms, including discussion forums and live webinars, foster a sense of community and knowledge exchange among healthcare professionals. The platform’s paramount focus on cybersecurity ensures robust measures to safeguard sensitive medical information, maintaining a secure educational environment.

In reﬂecting on her career, Kuttan delves into the challenges and triumphs of leadership, particularly as a woman navigating gender-related barriers. Tackling the pervasive gender gap in leadership, Kuttan emphasizes the need for resilience, competence, and a persistent commitment to challenging ingrained biases. Overcoming stereotypes about leadership styles, she consistently demonstrates the eﬀectiveness of diverse approaches to break into leadership spaces.

“

A Journey of Resilience

Strategic Evolution Omnicuris navigates industry dynamics through a strategic decision-making process. This involves thorough market research, ensuring the company stays attuned to current trends, emerging technologies, and evolving healthcare needs. User-centricity is pivotal, with Omnicuris actively seeking and valuing feedback from healthcare professionals. This approach, grounded in real-world experiences, fosters a sense of co-creation and ensures that the platform resonates with the dynamic demands of its users. Global expansion and localization eﬀorts demonstrate Omnicuris’ commitment to democratizing access to high-quality medical education. The company ensures relevance across diverse regions by tailoring content to local contexts. Continuous improvement through data analytics, agile development methodologies, strategic marketing, and embracing emerging educational models further solidify Omnicuris’ position at the forefront of healthcare education.

Balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments is a shared experience for women leaders, requiring effective time management and supportive environments. Kuttan advocates for self-advocacy, allyship, and systemic change to address implicit bias within organizational cultures. Building a support system is crucial, and Kuttan actively promotes mentorship and sponsorship programs while advocating for gender equality and navigating challenges in maledominated industries. Nurturing Excellence Kuttan’s dedication to employee wellbeing goes beyond conventional benefits, encompassing holistic initiatives for physical health, mental well-being, and professional development. Omnicuris ensures a supportive work culture through comprehensive health programs, flexible work arrangements, and continuous learning opportunities, fostering an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered. The unique dynamics of Team Omnicuris are rooted in an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and a collective commitment to transforming

COVER STORY healthcare education. Anchored in shared values, the team’s distinctive qualities include a passion for impactful contributions, an innovative mindset, collaborative synergy, adaptability, and continuous communication. The team remains cohesive and driven, focusing on empowering healthcare professionals through constant learning. Omnicuris actively recognizes and appreciates team members through initiatives like ﬂexible rewards, professional development opportunities, teambuilding activities, mentorship programs, and personalized career development plans. Continuous feedback mechanisms, including regular performance reviews, align with Omnicuris’ commitment to adaptability and continuous improvement, emphasizing the company’s dedication to acknowledging and nurturing talent.

ensuring women have equal access to training programs and leadership development initiatives. The company champions work-life balance through ﬂexible policies, including remote work options and part-time opportunities. Promoting women’s inclusion extends to leadership roles, with Omnicuris striving

for gender balance in decision-making processes. Ongoing eﬀorts in gender sensitization and Employee Resource Groups further contribute to an inclusive culture, solidifying Omnicuris’ commitment to women’s empowerment within the organization.

Nurturing Women’s Growth Under Kuttan’s leadership, Omnicuris is devoted to empowering women, prioritizing an inclusive environment beyond mere numerical representation. The company’s comprehensive strategy begins with merit-based recruitment practices, actively seeking diverse talent and collaborating with educational institutions to encourage women in traditionally male-dominated ﬁelds. Gender-neutral job descriptions further contribute to a more inclusive candidate pool. Mentorship and sponsorship programs are integral to women’s career development, emphasizing skill enhancement through insightful guidance. Omnicuris invests in continuous learning,

CIO Women Magazine | 27

COVER STORY Vision of Inclusive Feminism Kuttan’s view of feminism celebrates diversity and rejects the idea of women replicating every action of men. Her vision fosters an environment where both genders contribute uniquely, challenging stereotypes and predeﬁned gender roles. She believes in equal respect, extending beyond workplaces to challenge societal norms and advocate for equal opportunities in education, career advancement, and decision-making. She further emphasizes empowerment by dismantling barriers to education, ensuring healthcare access, and fostering a workplace where women lead. It challenges societal expectations, encouraging individuals to resist conformity to predetermined gender scripts. Her vision, embracing intersectionality, recognizes the complex challenges faced by women shaped by various social categories. Ultimately, Kuttan’s deﬁnition of

feminism is a call for collaboration, aiming for systemic change through policy advocacy, contributing to a more equitable, inclusive, and harmonious world. Diverse Wellspring of Inspiration Kuttan ﬁnds inspiration in a diverse collective, drawing from women across various domains. Colleagues and corporate leaders serve as everyday mentors, emphasizing teamwork and resilience in navigating professional landscapes. Athletes showcase tenacity and determination, while everyday education, healthcare, and community leadership heroes provide profound insights into compassion, dedication, and societal impact. Kuttan’s inspiration transcends a singular role model, allowing her to embrace the richness of lessons from women of diverse backgrounds. Women radiating high energy and cheer contribute to her leadership ethos, highlighting the transformative power of joy in team dynamics.

Approach to Work-Life Harmony Kuttan has a dynamic work-life balance approach. Acknowledging the elusive nature of a perfect balance, she embraces the juggle, recognizing that priorities may shift over time. In the entrepreneurial landscape, she adeptly wears multiple hats, demonstrating the need for prioritization, ﬂexibility, and dismantling the myth of perfection. Kuttan emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, delegating responsibilities, and valuing quality over quantity to achieve work-life harmony. She advocates for setting clear boundaries, transparent communication, and nurturing selfcare to sustain the juggling act. Amidst the whirlwind, shared moments of joy become touchstones, fostering an environment where joy coexists with productivity.

Guiding Women Entrepreneurs Kuttan provides valuable insights and practical advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs. Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities they may encounter, Kuttan offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape successfully. She emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s unique perspective, encouraging women entrepreneurs to leverage their authenticity and diversity for innovation. She underscores the significance of building a strong support system, seeking mentorship, and developing a resilient mindset to overcome challenges and view failures as stepping stones to success. Continuous learning, strategic networking, and the use of technology are highlighted as essential components for staying ahead in the dynamic business landscape. Kuttan emphasizes the foundational role of strong leadership, inclusive practices, and the balance between ambition and self-care. She addresses funding challenges by advocating strategic planning and exploring various funding sources. Lastly, Kuttan advises women entrepreneurs to pay it forward by supporting others, contributing to inclusivity in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and actively participating in mentorship programs. She acknowledges the ongoing challenge of balancing personal and professional realities, offering a perspective emphasizing flexibility and self-compassion in the entrepreneurial journey.

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An Ancient Civilization hidden under the Sand

t the core of the barren crimson desert resides the City of Petra, a legacy of a bygone era. This hidden city is covered with tales carried by desert winds and unfolds its secrets with the air of mystique. Its rose-red facades, masterfully carved into the living rock, stand as silent witnesses of an ancient civilization lost into the stack of time. Each façade is a canvas of stories of a forgotten empire and resonates with the whispers of a rich history. As we walk through the narrow Siq, the canyon guarding Petra’s entrance, the anticipation builds—we are set on a journey back in time, guided by the echoes of a lost civilization’s heartbeat.

CIO Women Magazine | 33

Where Is PETRA Located? It sits approximately 150 miles south of Jerusalem and Amman, the capital of Jordan. Positioned midway between Damascus, Syria, and the Red Sea, it became a strategic hub for trade and commerce. This historical site is notable for its stunning rockcut architecture and pioneering water management system, a crucial innovation that transformed the otherwise waterless and mountainous surroundings into a habitable area. It is known as the ‘Rose City’ due to the hues of its stone structures. It earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

An Enchanting History The story begins with a tribe of Arabian nomads known as the Nabataeans. Originally, wanderers who thrived in the desert by herding animals. Over time, their expertise in desert survival transformed them into prosperous traders, dominating key routes for spices and incense from Arabia to Egypt and the Mediterranean. The Nabataeans, once nomadic, accumulated wealth as desert traders, transitioning from goatskin tents to constructing impressive structures. The shift from nomadic life to settling down remains a mystery, shrouding Petra’s origins in intrigue. In 312 B.C., the Greek Empire attacked, marking its first historical mention. The Nabateans cleverly defended their city against the Greeks, using the mountainous terrain as a natural barrier. However, in 106 A.D., the Romans invaded, leading to the Nabatean surrender. The Romans renamed the territory as Arabia Petraea and ruled for over 250 years. The city endured until an earthquake in the fourth century A.D. that damaged many structures. Later, the Byzantines assumed control, governing for approximately 300 years. The Lost City This ancient city experienced a decline in the eighth century A.D., losing its prominence in trade, politics, and culture. Despite this, it remains noteworthy for its unique architecture, especially the rock-cut structures crafted by the Nabatean Bedouins. Its early architecture emerged by carving structures directly into the surrounding stone. Over time, Petra evolved, absorbing Roman and Byzantine influences, resulting in a fusion of cultural elements. Initially known for detailed Nabatean tombs, the city later featured Christian churches built by the Byzantines, who regarded it as the capital of the province of Palaestina. The Romans left their mark with the Roman Road, adorned with Roman-style gates. Despite changing rulers, the Nabateans’ influence endured in Petra’s design. Resulting in a captivating blend of cultural contributions spanning centuries.

CIO Women Magazine | 35

Inside Petra:

THE SIQ: It is the ancient main entrance leading to the city of Petra. A split rock with a length of about 1200m and a width of 3 to 12m, and height up to about 80m.

THE SILK TOMB: It is one of the most dramatically colored tombs in Petra dating back to the first half of the first century AD. The interface measures 10.8 meters in width and 19 meters in length with a door in the middle Today’s Petra After the eighth century, this abandoned city, Petra became a refuge for nomadic shepherds for centuries. In 1812, Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered Petra and documented his findings. This revelation captivated the interest of the Western world, drawing architects and scholars. A formal excavation project commenced in 1929, led by British archaeologists Agnes Conway and George Horsfield, along with scholars Tawfiq Canaan and Ditlef Nielsen.

BAB AL SIQ: It is Arabic for gateway to the ‘siq’. Here you will see three massive Djinn blocks, which are squared monuments carved out of the rock.

THE THEATRE: Carved into the side of the mountain at the foot of the High Place of Sacrifice, the theatre consists of three rows of seats separated by passageways. It can it can accommodate 4000 spectators. Over the years, significant discoveries were made, including the Greek scrolls in 1993 and the recent identification of a buried monumental structure through satellite imaging. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, this lost city witnessed the forced relocation of Bedouin tribespeople by the Jordanian government. In the early 2000s, it earned recognition as one of the ‘Seven New Wonders of the World,’ resulting in a surge in tourism.

THE DAM: It was renovated by the government in 1964 in the same way originally built by the Nabataens. Built to protect their capital from ﬂoods that arrived during the seasonal rain.

THE TREASURY (AL KHAZNA):

It is almost 40 meters high and intricately decorated with Corinthian capitals, friezes, ﬁgures and more. The Treasury is crowned by a funerary urn, which according to local legend conceals a pharaoh’s treasure.

How and When to Visit? Don’t limit to just a day trip—it’s vast, covering over a hundred square miles, four times the size of Manhattan. While donkeys and camels can speed things up, most of its wonders are best explored on foot, involving some uphill treks. Stay at least one night in town and plan your exploration through a series of hikes. Local guides, with their extensive knowledge, reveal hidden tombs and details you might miss. This city welcomes visitors year-round. Opt for spring or fall for pleasant weather and stunning light. Summer is lovely but scorching. January and February are cooler, with occasional rain. Due to the high elevation, nights are chilly. Make the most of Petra’s changing hues by arriving early and staying late for sunrise and sunset. Many mysteries of this long-lost city are still buried under the golden sand of the desert. Mysteries that hold a voice telling the story of the past. However, this mist of unknown stories is the very factor that makes this place more appealing. Once you leave Petra, you will leave with a perspective questioning the circle of time entangled with stories. And who knows, this adventure might help you with your own story.

Lesser Known Facts: Ÿ Caravan City: Often known as the ‘Rose City,’ it was a caravan city strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes. Its prosperity was built on trade, serving as a hub for caravans traveling between the Arabian Peninsula and the Mediterranean. Ÿ Rock-Cut Architecture: One of the most distinctive features of this city is its rock-cut architecture. The structures were carved directly into the rose-red cliﬀs of southern Jordan, showcasing the remarkable engineering and artistic skills of the Nabataeans people. Ÿ Nabataean Water Engineering: Its ability to thrive in a desert environment was facilitated by sophisticated water management systems. The Nabataeans constructed intricate trenches, cisterns, and channels to control and distribute water throughout the city. Ÿ Hidden Monastery: While the iconic Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) and the Monastery are well-known, Petra is home to numerous lesser-explored sites. One such site is the ‘Ad Deir’ or the Monastery, located high in the mountains. Larger than The Treasury but sees fewer visitors due to its remote location. Ÿ Mesmerizing Nights: Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience Petra by Night. The archaeological site is illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere. The journey through the Siq to reach The Treasury under the soft glow of candlelight is a ravishing experience. Ÿ Lost and Rediscovered: Essentially lost to the Western world after the 14th century. It became a forgotten city until the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1812. His accounts of the hidden city brought it back into the limelight. Ÿ Amphitheater with Acoustics: This city boasts a wellpreserved amphitheater with impressive acoustics. Despite its ancient origins, the theater can still seat thousands of spectators and is occasionally used for performances. These lesser-known facts of Petra add layers to its historical and cultural signiﬁcance.

CIO Women Magazine | 37

3 Key Tips to

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C o omen Magazine

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