She Means Business: Success Stories of Women Entrepreneurs Dominating India’s Business Landscape

In the dynamic landscape of India’s business sphere, a wave of inspirational Women Entrepreneurs is shaping the narrative of success. This special edition delves into the empowering journeys of visionary women who have smashed stereotypes, defied conventions, shattered glass ceilings, and left an indelible mark on the business world. These stories stand as testaments to resilience, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of female entrepreneurs who are not just making strides but reshaping the very fabric of India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Rajoshi Ghosh, COO and co-founder of Hasura

Rajoshi Ghosh, COO and co-founder of Hasura, is a distinguished figure in the world of technology entrepreneurship. Leading a San Francisco-based software technology company, she is also a serial entrepreneur with a track record of initiating five successful startups. Rajoshi’s professional journey commenced as a published bioinformatics researcher specializing in genomics at the Genome Institute of Singapore. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, she holds the prestigious title of a World Economic Forum Global Shaper, showcasing her influence on both the global stage and the tech community.

Saumya Singh Rathore, co-founder of WinZO

Saumya Singh Rathore, co-founder of WinZO, has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s gaming landscape. Under her leadership, WinZO, a social gaming platform in local languages, has amassed a user base exceeding 100 million. Since its establishment in 2018, WinZO has secured over $100 million in funding from prominent investors such as Griffin Gaming Partners and Makers Fund, solidifying its position as a key player in the vibrant gaming ecosystem of India. Saumya’s vision and strategic acumen have been instrumental in steering WinZO’s remarkable growth trajectory.

Kanika Gupta, COO at Square Yards

Kanika Gupta Shori, co-founder and COO at Square Yards, brings over 11 years of experience from Wharton Business School, encompassing roles in banking and entrepreneurial pursuits. Beyond her professional roles, she actively contributes to initiatives empowering women and supporting children’s welfare. Kanika’s leadership at Square Yards has been instrumental in its growth as an integrated real estate marketplace. Her commitment to social causes alongside her entrepreneurial endeavors showcases a holistic approach to business, reflecting a dedication to making a positive impact beyond the bottom line.

Dr. Garima Sawhney, co-founder of Pristyn Care

Dr. Garima Sawhney, co-founder of Pristyn Care, stands as a luminary in India’s healthcare sector. With a background in gynaecology, her journey began in the trenches of a government hospital, honing crucial life skills. Dr. Sawhney’s compassionate patient care has propelled Pristyn Care to a remarkable valuation of $1.4 billion, emphasizing the impact of combining medical expertise with entrepreneurial vision. Her commitment to providing accessible and high-quality healthcare has not only transformed Pristyn Care but has also set new standards for healthcare startups in India.

Aadore Mukherjee, Casting Director

Aadore Mukherjee, a renowned Casting Director and Producer, boasts an impressive portfolio, having cast for blockbuster movies like “Delhi Belly,” “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,” and “Happy New Year.” Additionally, as a Partner at Mindshift Studios, a leading Creative Production House, Aadore collaborates with top hospitality brands such as Taj, Marriott, and St Regis, bringing their video and photo campaigns to life.

Her journey into the industry began under the mentorship of advertising guru Prahlad Kakar, where she started as an Assistant Director. Aadore’s transition to Casting Director was seamless, marked by iconic ads for brands like Times of India and Nike. Despite facing challenges as a woman in a male-dominated industry, she draws inspiration from the strong, talented women she’s had the privilege to work with. Her recent movie, ‘Rocketry’ directed and acted by R Madhavan, won the National award.

Beyond her thriving career, Aadore finds solace in her dual residences in Mumbai and Goa, indulging in frequent travel between the two. Her message to aspiring women entrepreneurs is one of perseverance and embracing opportunities, echoing her own journey of determination and success in the competitive world of film and advertising.

Dhara Nitish Bansal, Founder – Ishhaara

Dhara Nitish Bansal is the founder and creator of Ishhaara, a brand that has made significant strides in the world of fashion and lifestyle. Dhara’s journey with Ishhaara began with a passion for design and a vision to create something unique and beautiful. She combined her creativity with entrepreneurial spirit to launch Ishhaara, which quickly gained recognition for its exquisite designs and quality craftsmanship.

Dhara’s story is one of perseverance and dedication. She faced numerous challenges in the competitive fashion industry but remained steadfast in her commitment to her brand. Her ability to blend traditional elements with modern aesthetics has set Ishhaara apart, making it a favorite among fashion enthusiasts.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dhara is known for her down-to-earth personality and her willingness to support and mentor others in the industry. She believes in the power of hard work and staying true to one’s vision. Her journey with Ishhaara is a testament to her creativity, resilience, and unwavering determination to make her dreams a reality.

Amisha Sharma, Founder – Pocket Diets

Amisha Sharma is someone who believes in setting her future self as her inspiration, aiming to make a positive impact on millions of lives globally. As she navigates her journey, she hasn’t encountered significant difficulties as a woman entrepreneur. Fortunately, she perceives the world as offering equal opportunities and support to women, enabling her to focus on her professional endeavors without unnecessary barriers.

Outside her business endeavors, Amisha actively invests in her personal growth and well-being. Currently, she’s engaged in a digital marketing course, striving to enhance her skill set and expand her knowledge base. Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is paramount for her, with a strong emphasis on nutritious eating habits and regular exercise routines.

For aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, Amisha advocates for taking action and pursuing one’s passions without delay. She encourages others not to wait for the perfect moment to embark on their entrepreneurial journey but to seize opportunities and trust that everything will fall into place with dedication and perseverance.

Reflecting on her success story, Amisha traces her roots back to Jammu, where her engineering background initially guided her career path. However, her true passion for entrepreneurship blossomed during her college years, fueled by her growing interest in nutrition and health. Recognizing the gap in nutritional knowledge, she embarked on a journey to establish “Pocketdiets.” The early stages were undoubtedly challenging, as she navigated the entrepreneurial landscape solo, often sacrificing sleep and personal time to pursue her goals. Yet, with a clear vision and unwavering determination, she overcame obstacles, turning her sacrifices into stepping stones toward success.

Paranosh Irani, Digital Content Creator and Entrepreneur

Meet Paranosh Irani, a dynamic Digital Content Creator and Entrepreneur whose journey embodies perseverance, creativity, and a passion for fashion.

Paranosh’s venture into the digital content creation sphere began on Instagram, where she carved out her niche as a social media influencer. With a distinctive style and a penchant for quirky yet edgy fashion, she captivated her audience with honest reviews and insightful tips on skincare and makeup. Embracing her belief in unicorns and the whimsical, Paranosh’s content exudes authenticity and originality.

For Paranosh, fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a form of self-expression and empowerment. She views style as a constant that reflects her individuality and personality, allowing her to stand out in her own unique way.

Paranosh’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Despite facing self-esteem issues in her earlier years, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery, enrolling in an image consulting course that reignited her passion for fashion. While her initial attempt at setting up an online boutique didn’t materialize, Paranosh persisted, transitioning into fashion blogging and eventually establishing herself as a full-time content creator.

Today, Paranosh creates a diverse range of content encompassing fashion, skincare, makeup, and lifestyle topics. Her boundless creativity and willingness to push boundaries have enabled her to turn her passions into a thriving profession. Notably, she was crowned the winner of the Femina Mrs. Stylista Pageant 2018, a testament to her unique sense of style and flair.

Paranosh draws inspiration from iconic figures like Iris Apfel, celebrating individuality and embracing boldness in fashion. As a woman navigating the competitive industry, she acknowledges the need to continuously prove her worth and overcome preconceived notions about her background.

Through her platform and achievements, Paranosh Irani inspires others to embrace their uniqueness, pursue their passions relentlessly, and defy conventional norms in the world of fashion and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Rakhee Sharma, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, Laser Specialist, Injector & PMU Artist.

Redefining Beauty with Grit and Grace In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine, Dr. Rakhee Sharma stands out as a pioneer – not just for her expertise, but for her resilience and dedication to empowering individuals through a personalized, ethical approach.

Her journey began after overcoming personal challenges, shaping her into a pillar of strength for her family and a determined professional. Drawn to the emerging field of aesthetic medicine in the early 2000s, she tirelessly pursued specialized training, both in India and Australia, defying societal expectations and navigating initial skepticism.

Over the past 15 years, Dr. Sharma has built a thriving practice, “Redefine Solutions,” fueled by her passion for helping individuals achieve their aesthetic goals while prioritizing natural-looking results and holistic well-being. Her commitment goes beyond clinical proficiency – she actively shapes the future of the field through teaching and running an accredited institute training doctors in aesthetic medicine.

But Dr. Sharma’s impact extends far beyond the confines of her practice. She champions ethical practices, advocating for informed consent and responsible advertising. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her venture “Redefine Solutions,” offering a range of face and hair care products, empowering individuals to take charge of their own beauty journey.

Dr. Rakhee Sharma is not just an aesthetic medicine maven; she is an inspiration. Her story embodies resilience, passion, and a commitment to ethical transformation. As Mumbai Uncensored recognizes her as a “Pioneering Excellence” in 2024, we celebrate not just her achievements, but the positive impact she continues to make on countless lives.

Dr. Hitasha Patil, Director & Chief Dermatologist at Dr. Hitasha’s skin | hair | laser | aesthetics, Nagpur

Dr. Hitasha Patil, Director and Chief Dermatologist at Dr. Hitasha’s skin | hair | laser | aesthetics in Nagpur, embarked on her medical journey after a childhood accident redirected her path. Inspired by her mother’s unwavering support and feminist spirit, Hitasha found her calling in medicine despite lacking familial precedent.

As the first doctor in her family, Hitasha faced unique challenges, navigating her path without established connections or mentors. The absence of a medical lineage led to moments of self-doubt and the need for external validation.

Beyond her clinic, Hitasha’s social media presence on Instagram as @drhitasha_patil showcases her passion for positivity and influencing. Her message to aspiring women entrepreneurs resonates with her own journey: embrace being the trailblazer, start imperfectly, and pave the way for future generations.

Sneha Chandan, Founder – Kraftytales

Sneha Chandan, the visionary behind Kraftytales, is dedicated to curating unforgettable gifting experiences that evoke joy and appreciation. Specializing in bespoke hampers tailored to diverse occasions, from corporate events to personalized celebrations and weddings, Kraftytales sets the standard for premier gifting solutions.

Inspired by her passion for crafting heartfelt gifts, Sneha embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, initially creating scrapbooks and handmade frames for friends and relatives. With overwhelming encouragement and support, she transformed her hobby into a thriving business venture. Since founding Kraftytales in 2016, Sneha has been committed to infusing creativity and thoughtfulness into every gift.

Sneha draws inspiration from her mother, whose creative guidance fueled her passion and ambition. Despite facing initial skepticism and societal expectations, Sneha remained steadfast in her pursuit of transforming Kraftytales into a reputable gifting enterprise. Overcoming obstacles through resilience and determination, Kraftytales gained momentum, with social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook amplifying its reach. Today, with around 75 percent repeat clientele, Kraftytales stands as a testament to Sneha’s unwavering dedication and the transformative power of pursuing one’s dreams.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Sneha finds solace in healing, meditation, and music, which inspire her both personally and professionally. Her message to aspiring women entrepreneurs is one of resilience, urging them to believe in their dreams, embrace challenges, and let passion be their guiding force on the journey to success.

Millin Sangha Gujral, Founder – Happy Strokes

Millin Sangha Gujral, the founder of Happy Strokes, is a beacon of compassion in the realm of mental well-being. Happy Strokes provides personalized counseling, nurturing emotional resilience and enriching lives through empathetic guidance and evidence-based practices.

In response to the heightened mental health challenges of the COVID-19 era, Happy Strokes emerged as a vital support system. Recognizing the toll of isolation and uncertainty, Millin’s counseling services offer hope, fostering resilience amidst escalating mental health concerns.

Driven by a societal need for mental health awareness, Millin’s commitment stems from a profound empathy for those grappling with mental health issues. As a woman in the field, she navigates gender biases and societal expectations while managing her business.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Millin advocates for mental health on Instagram, sharing knowledge and understanding. Painting serves as her recharge, and weekly reading over coffee is a cherished ritual.

To fellow women entrepreneurs, Millin champions resilience, self-belief, and barrier-breaking. Embrace uniqueness, seek support, and be confidently unapologetic. Your journey inspires and contributes to positive industry transformation. Stay true to your vision, letting passion drive your success.

Sanchita, Founder – Saanchi By Sanchita

Saanchi by Sanchita, founded in March 2015, epitomizes a harmonious blend of contemporary fashion and traditional craftsmanship, underscored by a profound commitment to empowering rural women. Seamlessly merging modern styles with age-old techniques, the brand presents a distinctive fusion that caters to the dynamic dressing style of today’s woman, while simultaneously uplifting the lives of women in rural communities.

For Sanchita, the journey into entrepreneurship began amidst life’s unexpected challenges, where adversity became a catalyst for personal and professional evolution. Guided by the wisdom instilled by her mother and fueled by an indomitable spirit, Sanchita embarked on her entrepreneurial odyssey, leveraging her expertise to carve a distinctive niche within the fashion landscape.

Beyond its commercial endeavors, Saanchi by Sanchita symbolizes the realization of a cherished dream—a platform for collaboration, education, and empowerment. Through the dissemination of skills and knowledge, the brand endeavors to inspire individuals and communities alike, nurturing resilience and fostering creativity.

To aspiring women entrepreneurs, Sanchita advocates for embracing mistakes as invaluable learning opportunities, maintaining unwavering consistency in the pursuit of objectives, and allowing determination to chart the course towards success. With resilience as their cornerstone and a steadfast commitment to growth, every setback becomes a pivotal stepping stone on the journey towards fulfilling one’s aspirations.

Dr. Tejashri Patil

Dr. Tejashri Patil is a dedicated professional who resides in Orlando, Florida. As a dentist and an epidemiologist, she brings a unique blend of expertise to her field. In addition to her professional roles, she is a Management Committee member and research team leader at a USA-based nonprofit organization, where she contributes her knowledge and passion for public health.

Her journey into dentistry was driven by a love for science and a desire to help others. Dr. Patil is fascinated by the complexities of oral health and the significant impact that a healthy smile can have on a person’s life. The field of dentistry allows her to combine technical skill with interpersonal interaction, creating meaningful relationships with her patients while delivering top-notch care.

However, her curiosity about the broader patterns of disease transmission and prevention led her to epidemiology. This transition enabled her to apply her healthcare background on a larger scale, addressing public health challenges that affect entire communities. By understanding and mitigating these issues, Dr. Patil continues to make a difference beyond the individual level.

Inspiration plays a vital role in Dr. Patil’s life. Her grandmother, a symbol of resilience, compassion, and wisdom, has been a guiding force. With her grandmother’s unwavering support, Dr. Patil has felt empowered to pursue her dreams and overcome life’s challenges with grace and determination. Additionally, her supportive upbringing, where gender equality was a given, has instilled in her a strong sense of confidence and resilience.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Patil has a deep passion for dance and the arts. Trained in various Indian classical dance forms, she finds joy and expression through movement. Dance is not just a hobby for her but a source of connection and fulfillment. Her creative pursuits also extend to crafts, where she enjoys painting, pottery, and DIY projects, constantly exploring new artistic mediums and techniques.

To aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, Dr. Patil emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning. She encourages others to embrace challenges as growth opportunities, stay resilient in the face of setbacks, and remain open to pivoting strategies when necessary. Cultivating a mindset of curiosity and innovation is crucial, as is building a supportive network of mentors and peers. Success, she believes, is a journey rather than a destination, and it is essential to enjoy the process while staying focused on your goals.

Dr. Patil credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her husband, who shares family responsibilities and encourages her to pursue her dreams. This partnership has been instrumental in her ability to balance her professional and personal life, allowing her to achieve her aspirations and make a meaningful impact in her fields.

Subah Dewan, ICF certified Life Coach, Founder & CEO of ‘Life Works’

Subah Dewan, an ICF certified Life Coach, founder & CEO of “Life Works,” embodies positivity and empowers others to reach their full potential. Her diverse background in global hospitality and corporate leadership, spanning Dubai, London, and India, combined with her infectious energy, leaves a lasting impact on everyone she meets.

Her journey from working with renowned hospitality brands like Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels, and Accor Group to becoming a life coach showcases her commitment to personal and professional growth. As a former model and fitness enthusiast, Subah integrates fashion, fitness, fun, and adventure into her unique coaching philosophy, emphasizing mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health.

Her global perspective and dedication to leading by example set her apart in the life coaching field, inspiring others to embrace love, gratitude, and joy in their lives. Through workshops and motivational talks, Subah advocates for mental health awareness and women’s empowerment, leveraging her platform to make a positive impact on society.

With boundless enthusiasm and a deep sense of gratitude, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her, living her dream as a passionate advocate for mental wellness.

Ayesha Haneef, Business head – Shikha Aggarwal Sharma, Fat to Slim Bangalore

Ayesha Haneef, the business head of ‘Shikha Aggarwal Sharma – Fat to Slim Bangalore’ a renowned brand in diet and nutrition, pioneering the innovative concept of “eat sleep lose without exercise.”

Amidst the challenges of COVID, she ventured into this domain in February 2021 by acquiring the franchise in Bangalore, propelling her into a journey of unparalleled success. With over fifteen franchises worldwide, Ayesha’s dedication knows no bounds.

Inspired by Shikha Agarwal Sharma, the brand’s founder, Ayesha admires her as a successful businesswoman and mentor. Shikha’s emphasis on the use of Indian herbs and spices, particularly during the pandemic, resonated deeply with Ayesha and her clientele.

A firm believer in the power of women’s empowerment, Ayesha navigates her entrepreneurial path with grace and determination. Despite the myriad challenges of business ownership, she remains undeterred, fueled by her passion for her work.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ayesha’s roles as a wife, mother, daughter-in-law, and daughter fulfill her life with purpose and joy. Her commitment to her family and her career sets an inspiring example for future generations, underscoring the importance of women’s participation in all spheres of life.