In a celebration of resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievements, Mumbai Uncensored proudly presents “Unstoppable NariShakti: Indian Women Achievers of the Year 2024.”

This special feature shines a spotlight on the extraordinary journeys of women who have defied odds, shattered glass ceilings, and carved their path to success in diverse fields across India. From innovative entrepreneurs to trailblazing leaders, these women embody the spirit of empowerment and serve as inspiring role models for generations to come.

Ghazal Alagh, co-founder of Mamaearth

Ghazal Alagh, an accomplished entrepreneur and co-founder of Mamaearth, spearheads India’s natural skincare movement. Her entrepreneurial journey was ignited by a personal quest for safe products for her son, propelling Mamaearth into a household name and recently into the public market. Ghazal’s story is a testament to transforming personal challenges into business triumphs, making her a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs nationwide. Her commitment to sustainability and toxin-free products has set a new standard in the beauty industry, earning Mamaearth widespread acclaim.

Rubaina Adhikari, Entrepreneur – Sri Adhikari Brothers Group, Wellness Influencer

Rubaina Adhikari stands as a prominent figure in Mumbai, rooted deeply in the media legacy of the Sri Adhikari Brothers Group. Her multifaceted career as a dietitian, fitness enthusiast, wellness influencer, and fashionista has earned her widespread acclaim and a loyal following.

Rubaina’s passion for wellness and fitness is evident in her distinguished career as a dietitian, where she has worked with numerous celebrity clients. For seven years, she ran a successful clinic, offering personalized nutritional guidance and fitness advice. Afterward, she transitioned to freelancing, allowing her to reach and impact a broader audience.

Her expertise and insights have been featured in notable publications such as NDTV Lifestyle, Times of India, NDTV Food, Her Zindagi, Bombay Times, and Desi Martini. These platforms have showcased her as a leading voice in wellness and lifestyle, highlighting her contributions to the field.

Rubaina’s influence extends beyond nutrition and fitness. As a fashionista, she has made a mark in styling, working under the Sri Adhikari Brothers Group. Her keen sense of style and commitment to elegance have made her a public figure admired by many. Her compassionate and warm demeanor resonates in her actions and words, embodying grace and charm.

Currently, Rubaina is channeling her energies into her role as a wellness influencer. Her journey as a fitness enthusiast and dietitian continues to inspire her followers, who look up to her for guidance on healthy living and elegant styling. Despite her busy professional life, she cherishes her role as a mother, balancing her many responsibilities with poise and dedication.

Rubaina Adhikari’s story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to wellness. Her journey reflects her kind-hearted nature and her ability to inspire others through her actions and words. As she continues to build her presence as a wellness influencer, Rubaina remains a true embodiment of grace and charm in all that she does.

Neelam Naseeb, Founder – Mishi Blue Tarot & Therapy and MBM Crystals

Neelam Naseeb, the visionary founder of Mishi Blue Tarot & Therapy and MBM Crystals, is more than an entrepreneur—she is a healer and spiritual guide, offering transformative tarot readings and therapy sessions to clients around the world.

Her work weaves together the threads of personal growth and spiritual transformation. Neelam’s journey into this realm was born out of her own search for peace and understanding.

Delving deep into the mysteries of tarot and philosophy, she found healing for herself and soon realized her mission to share this healing with others, challenging societal expectations along the way. Her inspiration extends beyond the practice of tarot; it lies in the power of innovation to change perspectives and open new avenues for well-being. Though she acknowledges the difficulties of introducing unconventional practices, Neelam views societal resistance as a common challenge for pioneers.

Her steadfast determination enables her to overcome these barriers with grace and poise. In addition to her spiritual practice, Neelam has organized spiritual meetups in Mumbai and Hyderabad, with the ambition of expanding these gatherings globally. She has also launched a new venture, MBT SIRIUS – The Shining Star, which focuses on training tarot coaches to help guide those seeking direction in life.
This venture aims to create an organized platform for learning tarot and understanding its practical applications in everyday life. To aspiring women entrepreneurs, Neelam shares a powerful mantra: “What stands in the way is the way.”
This reflects her belief in resilience and the strength that lies within. Through her journey and unwavering commitment, Neelam Naseeb encourages others to carve their own paths and make a lasting impact on the world.

Shailja Saraswati, Content & Media Professional, Yoga & Meditation Trainer, Podcast Host

Shailja Saraswati is a dynamic leader in the media industry, currently serving as the Chief Content Officer at Omnicom Media Group. With nearly two decades of experience across television, digital, and media, she has made a profound impact in her field. In addition to her professional role, Shailja is a seasoned mindfulness trainer and the host of the podcast “Unstoppable Woman,” a platform dedicated to empowering women and sharing impactful stories of resilience and success.

Her journey into the content industry was fueled by a passion for storytelling and media. Starting in television, Shailja gradually transitioned into digital media, where she continued to make significant strides. Beyond content creation, her interest in personal growth led her to mindfulness, where she now shares her insights as a trainer and motivational speaker. Through her podcast Unstoppable Woman, Shailja aims to amplify the voices of strong, determined women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a community of support and inspiration. The podcast serves as a platform for celebrating triumphs, overcoming adversity, and driving positive change.

Shailja’s inspiration comes from many sources—her mother, mentors, and industry leaders who have championed innovation. Her spiritual approach to life, combined with mindfulness and self-mastery, has been a guiding force in her personal and professional journey. One of her key initiatives is building collaborative platforms like Unstoppable Woman, where women from all walks of life come together to share stories, learn, and uplift one another.

Podcast playlist on YouTube
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdJ7SMcmiKXsWFMMWlQRp91tTUpd6Y3qP&si=YyER0jefeh8IhE_T

Podcast on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/2O9ZUV8rglipIWo9uUx6CD?si=h8XM2EvITIyjhtA2Td27Yw

Also available on all other streaming platforms like Apple, audible, wynk etc

In addition to her media career, Shailja is deeply committed to yoga and meditation. She believes that mindfulness is a crucial tool for enhancing well-being in both personal and professional spheres. Shailja frequently conducts workshops on integrating mindfulness into daily life, sharing her learnings through her YouTube channel, where she discusses inspiring topics on personal growth and motivation.

YouTube channel – https://youtube.com/@shailjasaraswati?si=rSnSzn6X9HpUoUDo

Shailja’s message to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is simple yet powerful: stay true to your passion and never give up, no matter the challenges. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in an ever-changing industry. She also advocates for women supporting one another to create a strong network for navigating both personal and professional challenges.

Her success story reflects the importance of perseverance, personal growth, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Recently, her contributions have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the ‘2024 Woman Advertising Maven Award’ by Adtech Today and the ‘ET Woman of the Year 2024’ by the Economic Times. Shailja Saraswati continues to be a force of inspiration, both in the media world and beyond, using her platform to spark change and empower women everywhere.

Meenu Arora – Fashion designer & influencer

Meenu Arora is a passionate fashion designer and influencer who always aspired to be an independent woman. At the young age of 22, driven by her love for fashion, she launched her own label, APHRODITE (@aphroditebysanya.meenuarora). Starting from scratch, @Meenu.arora quickly made her mark by supplying her unique designs to some of the biggest stores in Delhi. Her journey in fashion has been marked by determination, hard work, and a touch of divine grace, allowing her to pursue her passion successfully over the years.

Expanding her entrepreneurial spirit, Meenu also ventured into the food business. She understands that excellent service is the hallmark of any successful business, especially in the food service industry. Meenu believes that combining a great location, top-quality products, and exceptional customer service is key to creating a successful cafe. She has succeeded in doing this with her ventures, DICHA and Degnama at Balinagar, which have become popular favorites. By listening to and understanding her customers’ needs, thanking them, and fostering a positive, helpful environment, she has created blissful escapes where customers choose her establishments over competitors, even if they’re not centrally located.

Meenu’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and self-belief. Her message to aspiring professionals is clear: “Don’t be afraid of taking risks. Business opportunities are like flights—there’s always a next one. Trust in your dreams and believe in yourself.” Through her success, Meenu inspires others to follow their dreams and believe in the potential of their ideas.

Prerna Daga

Prerna Daga is the driving force behind the marketing and communications for two of Marriott International’s luxury properties—The Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi, and The Westin Sohna Resort and Spa. With over 19 years of experience in hospitality, marketing communications, and public relations, Prerna has mastered the art of turning ordinary stays into extraordinary experiences. She doesn’t just market hotel rooms; she creates narratives that resonate, strategies that captivate, and campaigns that leave a lasting impression. Her work is a blend of creativity, strategy, and flair, ensuring that the properties she represents stand out in the competitive landscape of luxury hospitality.

Prerna’s journey into marketing was anything but straightforward. She began her career in sales, excelling at building relationships and closing deals. However, a pivotal moment occurred during a routine client meeting, where she realized that the brand’s story needed to be more compelling. This insight ignited her passion for marketing, leading her to shift from sales to crafting narratives that connect with people on a deeper level. Marketing chose her as much as she chose it—Prerna realized that she was more interested in creating the stories behind the sale than just making the sale itself.

Her career has spanned various industries, including hospitality, cinemas, sports, luxury lifestyle, and real estate, each chapter adding a unique brushstroke to her professional canvas. Through these diverse experiences, Prerna discovered the power of a compelling story and how it can influence perceptions, drive decisions, and create lasting impressions. She believes that marketing is where creativity meets strategy, and she thrives on the challenge of capturing the essence of a brand and presenting it in a way that not only engages but also inspires.

Prerna’s inspiration comes from a mosaic of influences—visionary leaders, mentors, and the trailblazing women in her life who have rewritten the rules and shattered ceilings. She draws strength and motivation from her family and close network of friends, who have always supported her and grounded her in values that guide her work ethic. For Prerna, challenges are not barriers but opportunities to innovate and grow. She acknowledges that there have been moments where she’s had to prove herself twice as hard, navigate biases, and balance expectations, but she views these challenges as stepping stones. Every setback has fueled her determination, every doubt has sharpened her resolve, and every obstacle has been a reminder of her strength and resilience. So, while the road has had its twists, she’s embraced them all, knowing that resilience and a whole lot of “chin-up girl and fix your crown” attitude go a long way. After all, it’s not just about getting to the destination; it’s about owning the journey.

Outside of her professional life, Prerna is a connoisseur of style, a lover of design, and an avid experimenter in the kitchen. She believes in living life with the same creativity and flair that she brings to her work, always staying inspired and finding joy in the little things. Her message to aspiring women entrepreneurs and professionals is to embrace their uniqueness, trust their instincts, and lead with confidence. She encourages them to blaze their own trail, balance ambition with grace, and let their actions speak louder than words.

For Prerna, success is not a destination but an ongoing journey. Every milestone is just a stepping stone to the next challenge, the next opportunity, and the next story to be told. She believes in continuous growth, staying curious, and never settling for “good enough.” Her journey is far from over, and she’s excited for what’s yet to come.

Gaurii Arora, Podcaster

Gaurii Arora, a passionate podcaster inspired by Ranveer Allahbadia, has had a remarkable journey marked by determination and growth. Entering the podcasting world, she faced the challenge of learning the ropes from mastering technical skills to securing guests, but she was undeterred. A key turning point came when she enrolled in a podcasting course from BeerBiceps SkillHouse, which not only provided her with the necessary technical know-how but also boosted her confidence, enabling her to navigate these initial struggles with greater ease.

Gaurii’s academic background as a postgraduate in data science from IIM Bangalore gave her a solid foundation in analytical thinking. However, her curiosity and desire for continuous learning led her to transition into digital marketing, where she effectively applies data-driven insights to help businesses thrive online. Her entry into podcasting was sparked by a powerful experience at a seminar, where she learned about government schemes offering collateral-free loans for women entrepreneurs. This revelation ignited a desire to share this valuable information with a broader audience, leading to the launch of her first podcast.

The purpose of Gaurii’s podcasting journey is twofold: to share the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who have overcome struggles to achieve success, and to uncover and disseminate valuable knowledge that can benefit many. She believes in the power of storytelling as a tool for empowerment, and her podcasts aim to uplift others on their paths to success by providing them with practical insights and inspiration.

Throughout her journey, Gaurii has embraced the challenges that come with podcasting and continually sought out knowledge. She believes deeply in the importance of sharing what she learns to empower others, embodying the principle that knowledge is most powerful when it’s shared. Her story is a testament to the importance of curiosity, growth, and the desire to make a difference in the world.

Gaurii encourages other aspiring podcasters and entrepreneurs to keep pushing forward, embrace learning at every stage, and never underestimate the impact they can create by sharing their insights and experiences. Her journey, from her initial struggles to her growing success, serves as an inspiring example of how passion, continuous learning, and a commitment to empowering others can lead to meaningful achievements.

Tripti Gupta, Lifestyle influencer

Tripti Gupta is an aspiring lifestyle influencer dedicated to sharing tips and inspiration in fashion, beauty, wellness, and everyday living. Her journey into the digital space began as a hobby, fueled by her passion for making life beautiful. What started as a simple sharing of ideas quickly evolved into a growing community, leading her to realize that her passion could become a profession.

Inspired by powerful women who have built their brands on authenticity and creativity, Tripti has faced her share of challenges in the digital world. As a woman, she’s encountered pressures to meet certain standards and faced criticism that could shake anyone’s confidence. However, she has remained steadfast in embracing her uniqueness, knowing that it’s what sets her apart in a crowded space.

Outside of her content creation, Tripti is a devoted mother who loves spending time with her family. She also enjoys exploring new hobbies, like trying out new recipes, and connecting with like-minded individuals in real life.

Her message to aspiring digital creators is clear: “Stay authentic and don’t compare your journey to others. It’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough, but everyone’s path is different. Focus on what makes you unique, and let your passion guide you. Consistency, patience, and staying true to your vision are key to growing your platform.”

Though her journey is still unfolding, Tripti has learned to celebrate the small victories along the way. For her, success isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about appreciating the growth and progress at each step. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people and never stopping the learning process, as she continues to evolve and inspire others through her platform.

Namrata Dhruve – Parenting Coach & Emotional Healer

Namrata Dhruve is a Parenting Coach and Emotional Healer, dedicated to helping parents break free from unhealthy emotional habits, allowing them to raise emotionally resilient children with strong relationships. Her journey into this field started after spending 14 years as a Chartered Accountant, where despite being passionate about her work, she realized there were deep-seated patterns in her behavior, both as an individual and a mother, that needed addressing. She struggled with low self-esteem, confidence issues, aggression, and the constant pressure to please others. As a mother, she found herself overwhelmed with anger and frustration, particularly after the birth of her first child, whose behavior began to trigger her unresolved emotions.

Driven by a desire to understand the root cause of these patterns, Namrata embarked on a personal healing journey. She attended various courses and began implementing new practices on herself and her son, gradually noticing profound changes in both her behavior and her connection with her child. This transformative experience led her to discover her higher purpose—ensuring that no one who crosses her path would have to raise another Namrata, burdened by unresolved emotional issues.

Namrata’s inspiration comes from her son, who has been the driving force behind her journey. However, her path hasn’t been without its challenges. As a woman in this profession, she often found that people didn’t take her work seriously, assuming she was simply passing time. Despite this, she remained focused on her mission, using her experiences to fuel her passion for helping other parents.

Apart from her work as a parenting coach, Namrata enjoys spending time with her children and is actively involved in unschooling her son, exploring various non-traditional methods of learning. She also devotes time to helping underprivileged people by raising awareness about education and financial opportunities.

Namrata’s message to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: every business will flourish when it focuses on solving people’s major problems. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, believing that the universe has abundance for everyone—it’s just a matter of becoming capable and ready to receive it.

Reflecting on her journey, Namrata shares that there was a time when she struggled to even speak in front of a group, feeling deeply insecure and lacking confidence. Every word from her husband or son felt offensive, but healing her inner child transformed her into a confident woman with a deeply fulfilling relationship with her family. Today, Namrata’s success is grounded in her ability to understand the underlying reasons for people’s behavior, a gift that she attributes to her personal healing journey. For her, success is not about reaching a specific destination but about staying true to her purpose and helping others along the way.

In a dynamic era of entrepreneurial innovation, Mumbai Uncensored proudly unveils ‘The Power List: Top 24 Indian Entrepreneurs Defining the Future!‘ This exclusive feature shines a spotlight on visionary minds reshaping India’s business landscape and setting new standards of success.

From disruptive startups to established enterprises, these 24 entrepreneurs exemplify the spirit of innovation, resilience, and forward-thinking leadership. Join us as we delve into the journeys of these trailblazers who are not just shaping industries but also shaping the future of entrepreneurship in India.

Nikhil Kamath – Founder – Zerodha

Nikhil Kamath is the co-founder and CEO of Zerodha, an online stock brokerage firm that’s reshaping the way people invest in India. Zerodha’s user-friendly platform has democratized investing, making it accessible to individuals across income levels. Kamath’s dedication to leveraging technology for accessible investing and his advocacy for financial literacy has been instrumental in making investing more efficient and accessible for the youngest entrepreneurs in India in 2024.

Namita Thapar, CEO of Emcure Pharmaceuticals

Namita Thapar, CEO of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, is a renowned Indian entrepreneur celebrated for her impactful contributions to the healthcare sector. Her notable appearance on Shark Tank India has further cemented her status as an inspiring figure for budding entrepreneurs.

Hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, Namita Thapar belongs to a Gujarati family. Despite her affluent background, she has diligently carved a successful career path. Her academic journey includes a commerce degree from Pune University, a Chartered Accountancy degree from ICAI, and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Namita began her professional journey as the Business Finance Lead at Guidant Corporation in the US. After gaining valuable experience, she joined her father’s company, Emcure Pharmaceuticals, as the CFO in 2007.

Under her leadership, Emcure Pharmaceuticals has seen remarkable growth, expanding its presence to 70 countries. In FY21, the company reported a profit of Rs. 418 crore on a revenue of Rs. 6091 crore, showcasing Namita Thapar’s pivotal role in its success.

Shilpa Reddy – Mrs. India, Fashion Designer, Entrepreneur & Holistic Lifestyle Influencer

Shilpa Reddy, a visionary designer and the first Indian to showcase her collection at the Eiffel Tower, embarked on a creative journey after graduating from the Academy of Design, Toronto. Founder of the Shilpa Reddy Label, she prioritizes sustainability, responding to the fashion industry’s environmental impact by downsizing her studio. Her label now stands as a beacon of eco-conscious fashion, catering exclusively to a select clientele through a personalized, advertisement-free approach.

Expanding her vision, Shilpa established an early learning center inspired by Reggio Emilia’s philosophy, where nature serves as the “third teacher.” Recognizing the crucial formative years of children, she aims to provide a stress-free, sustainable environment for holistic development.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Shilpa draws inspiration from diverse individuals and delves into cultural heritage. She finds joy in singing, dancing, and exploring natural farming—a labor of love rooted in understanding the delicate dance between soil, seeds, and seasons. Healthy eating is a lifestyle actively embraced by Shilpa.

In her perspective on femininity, Shilpa advocates for women to maintain authenticity, emphasizing the unique qualities they bring to the table. Rejecting the notion of comparing oneself with men, she believes in preserving the balance and harmony in society, encouraging women to embrace their distinctive strengths without compromising their authenticity. Shilpa Reddy encourages every woman to reflect on the difference they can make while staying true to their intrinsic nature.

Sania Sugla – Entrepreneur, Founder – Boutique Marketing Agency

Saniya Sugla is the founder of a boutique creative marketing agency specializing in content creation, social media management, and brand development. She identified a gap in the market where big agencies handle numerous clients and freelancers offer individual services, but there was a lack of personalized, consistent social media and content solutions. Saniya’s agency bridges this gap by providing the expertise of a large agency combined with the comfort and close relationship of an in-house team. Specializing in content creation, social media management, and brand development, her agency offers a unique blend of professional expertise and intimate client relationships. Saniya has successfully attracted a global clientele, including leading brands from London, Canada, and Dubai, who trust her to elevate their brands in a crowded marketplace.

Her father is her greatest motivation and inspiration. Watching him build everything from scratch and provide a great life for their family, Saniya draws on the privilege and lessons she’s gained from him to level up every day. However, she finds it challenging to convince businesses that marketing is not a luxury expense but a necessary investment.

Outside of her professional life, Saniya is passionate about traveling, using her earnings to explore new corners of the world. Traveling rejuvenates her like nothing else. She also cherishes spending time with her close-knit circle of friends, who are always there for her, making sure to connect with them often.

Saniya’s message to fellow entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: “Just keep swimming.” She believes that it’s never as bad as your mind makes it seem and that half the battle of entrepreneurship is simply having the courage to survive everything that comes your way.

Shaili Thacker, Founder – Shubhamkala

Shaili Thacker is the visionary founder behind Shubhamkala, a fashion brand that uniquely combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern design. After a successful career in the corporate world, Shaili followed her true passion for art and design, launching Shubhamkala in 2022. Her brand specializes in couture and prêt-à-porter garments, collaborating closely with artisans from the Kutch region to bring traditional art forms to life in contemporary fashion.

Her transition from corporate life to the fashion industry was motivated by a deep admiration for India’s rich artistic heritage. With a strong commitment to preserving these traditions, Shaili has built a brand that not only showcases the beauty of ancient craftsmanship but also supports the local artisan communities who have kept these art forms alive for generations.

Throughout her journey, Shaili has drawn inspiration from the artisans she works with, particularly those from Kutch. These talented individuals, who devote themselves to their craft, embody the spirit of dedication that Shaili strives to reflect in her own work. However, as a woman in the fashion industry, she has faced her share of challenges, including navigating societal expectations and establishing her brand in a competitive marketplace. Despite these obstacles, her determination to create a brand that values both creativity and heritage has only grown stronger.

Outside of Shubhamkala, Shaili continues to explore various art forms and supports other local brands, ensuring her work remains innovative. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to stay committed to their vision, embrace challenges, and let passion guide their journey. Shubhamkala is more than a fashion brand—it’s a celebration of art, culture, and craftsmanship, with roots in Kutch and an expanding vision that aims to incorporate diverse artistic traditions.

Sakshi Bindra, Founder – Label Sakshi Bindra

Label Sakshi Bindra is a renowned fashion brand founded by the talented Sakshi Bindra, who seamlessly transitioned from a successful modeling career to becoming a visionary designer. Sakshi first gained prominence by winning the prestigious title of MTV Lycra Model Hunt and later as a top 10 finalist in Miss Universe. Her journey reflects her deep passion for fashion and innovation.

With a global presence, Sakshi has captivated audiences at esteemed fashion events, including Delhi Times Fashion Week, Chennai Fashion Week, Dubai Fashion Week, Muscat Fashion Week, and the Istanbul Design Showcase. Her designs are known for their sophistication, exquisite craftsmanship, and contemporary flair, resonating with the modern woman seeking elegance with a playful twist.

Label Sakshi Bindra offers a stunning collection of gowns, resort wear, and dresses designed to empower and inspire. From red carpet glamour to chic everyday wear, each piece embodies Sakshi’s distinctive vision and dedication to excellence. She has collaborated with Bollywood stars like Mika Singh, Neha Dhupia, Shahid Kapoor, Veena Malik, Alia Bhatt, and Zoya, and contributed her designs to the film Xpose, produced by Himesh Reshammiya.

Driven by a passion for pushing boundaries and redefining fashion, Label Sakshi Bindra continues to enchant fashion enthusiasts around the world with its captivating designs and timeless elegance.

India’s fashion industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation, and at the forefront are a new wave of entrepreneurs who are reshaping the style landscape. These emerging fashion game changers are blending creativity with innovation, challenging traditional norms, and making a significant impact on how India expresses itself through fashion. From sustainable designs to tech-driven solutions, these visionary entrepreneurs are setting new standards and redefining the future of fashion in the country.

In this article, we introduce you to some of the most inspiring entrepreneurs in the Indian fashion industry and explore how their innovative ideas and bold approaches are shaping the future of fashion in India. From disrupting the market with sustainable practices to creating unique designs that capture the essence of modern India, these visionaries are setting new trends and redefining the fashion landscape.

Namita Alexander

In the glamorous world of Bollywood, where style reigns supreme, one name that stands out is Namita Alexander. A celebrity stylist with a clientele that includes the likes of Jacqueline Fernandes, Diana Penty, Huma Qureshi, Chitrangda Singh, and Pooja Hegde, Namita has carved a niche for herself with her impeccable taste and creative flair. Her styling for the celebrity wedding of Rajkumar Rao and Patralekha went viral too. Having recently returned from the Oscars, she is now prepping for the Cannes film festival.

Namita was formerly a journalist working with NDTV. Though she had always been drawn to fashion, it wasn’t until 2017 that she stumbled upon an opportunity that would change her life forever. A close friend, who happened to be a celebrity, sought Namita’s advice for an important event. Little did she know that this casual suggestion would mark the beginning of her styling journey.

For the next six months, Namita found herself advising her friend on various outfits and styles. It was during this time that she realized her knack for fashion and the potential it held. As fate would have it, a golden opportunity presented itself at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2018. Namita was entrusted with styling Diana Penty and her appearance at the festival won the title of “Best Dressed” across multiple platforms.

Encouraged by her resounding success, Namita decided to transform her creative calling into a full-fledged business, and Namita Alexander Styling Ltd. was born. Her hashtag #StyledByNamitaAlexander is widely searched to discover new designers and see some different ways of styling clothes. Namita always respected fashion as her art form. In 2022 she Co-founded My Almari with her two partners. My Almari is an e-commerce platform that is revolutionising the way luxury goods are bought and sold.

Namita has learnt invaluable lessons along the way. Now as a fashion entrepreneur, she believes in taking each day as it comes, and planning her calendar to the minute to keep up when her dates are booked months in advance.

She underscores the significance of patience and hard work, as they are the key ingredients for long-term success. In a highly competitive industry, Namita emphasises the need to have a distinct voice and the ability to package and sell that voice in a way that resonates with others.

Namita Alexander’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. As she continues to make waves in Bollywood’s fashion landscape, she remains an inspiration to aspiring stylists and entrepreneurs, a beacon of creativity and unwavering determination in the face of challenges.

Divya Aggarwal, Founder & Designer – By Divya Aggarwal

Divya Aggarwal, Founder & Designer of her namesake luxury couture label is on a mission to preserve India’s rich heritage, culture, and craftsmanship through her unique designs. After majoring in Fashion Designing and a minor in Design Management, from Parsons School of Design in New York, she gained valuable experience with brands like KAZO and BL International.

With over 5 years of industry experience, she launched her own label, combining contemporary aesthetics with timeless traditions. Divya’s label blends modern style with traditional Indian fashion, breaking away from common trends and her designs showcase a mix of global fashion influences, featuring distinctive prints, vibrant colors, and visionary designs.

The label aims to set a new standard for Indian fusion and traditional wear, offering bespoke couture that reflects individuality and creativity. While evoking the very spirit of India with blouses, lehengas, and traditional adornments, Divya Aggarwal also hinges on western modernity with fusion skirts, corsets, and jackets. Her collections boast a variety of colors, designs, and prints, allowing for versatile styling and long-lasting wear due to its classic designs and high-quality craftsmanship.

In essence, Divya Aggarwal’s couture label is poised to set trends and make a lasting impact in the world of fashion by bringing forth a unique fusion of urban relevance and timeless Indian charm, promising to be a trendsetter with its alluring and finely crafted creations.

Mussarat Merchant, Founder – Label Frow

Mussarat Merchant is the visionary behind Label Frow, a Western wear clothing brand that brings international fashion trends to women in India. Specializing in occasion-based clothing and custom-made pieces, Label Frow ensures a perfect fit while promoting sustainability by maintaining low inventory and reducing waste.

Determined to create her own fashion brand, Mussarat pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Business from the Raffles Institute in Singapore and completed a styling course at Central Saint Martins in London. Her passion for fashion stems from the women in her family, who loved to dress up and were influenced by Western styles, instilling in Mussarat a deep appreciation for the art of fashion.

Mussarat draws inspiration from Victoria Beckham, admiring her brand’s minimal and versatile designs, and aims to elevate Label Frow to a similar level of excellence. Additionally, she looks up to Simon Porte Jacquemus, the founder and creative director of Jacquemus, for his innovative marketing and creative content strategies.

As an entrepreneur, Mussarat has faced several challenges, particularly starting young and without industry connections. She has navigated daily struggles and learning opportunities, and being an introvert has made networking difficult. While she believes that working under an established mentor could have provided valuable experience, learning from her own mistakes has been a significant part of her journey.

Outside of her business, Mussarat enjoys spending time with friends and family, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, and traveling to experience new cultures. These activities help her relax and stay inspired.

Mussarat’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to focus on building the right connections and networks, as relationships are crucial in the industry. She also encourages embracing mistakes as learning opportunities.

Starting Label Frow during the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging but opportunistic. Mussarat used the downtime to collaborate with influencers, celebrities, and stylists, which helped build brand awareness. Today, Label Frow is recognized for its unique, stylish, occasion-based clothing, showcased by celebrities like Kriti Sanon, Ananya Pandey, Jacqueline Fernandez, Jhanvi Kapoor, and Sonakshi Sinha, as well as fashion influencers like Komal Pandey, Sakshi Sindwani, and Sonam Babani. The brand has also been featured in prestigious magazines such as Cosmopolitan India and Grazia India. Additionally, Label Frow is available on Nykaa Fashion, Myntra Luxe, and Aza, further expanding its reach. Mussarat is proud of how far Label Frow has come and continues to strive for excellence.

Anshu Dhawan, Founder – PearlSmith

Anshu Dhawan is a name synonymous with style, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit in the fashion industry. As the founder of PearlSmith, a brand known for its innovative and enchanting designs, Anshu has made her mark by blending timeless elegance with modern trends. Her journey into fashion began with a push from her best friend, Shruti, who encouraged her to explore Instagram, setting the stage for her influential career.

PearlSmith is a reflection of Anshu’s vision for fashion that resonates with contemporary tastes. The brand celebrates creativity, offering intricate accessories and bold statement pieces that capture the imagination of fashion enthusiasts. Anshu’s entrepreneurial spark was further fueled by her husband, whose journey from a laid-back individual to a disciplined and successful entrepreneur inspired her to launch PearlSmith.

As a fashion and lifestyle influencer, Anshu has collaborated with esteemed brands like Dyson, Nykaa, and Lakmé, making luxury fashion accessible to her audience. Despite challenges, her unwavering commitment has driven her success, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when her influence surged, leading to significant brand collaborations and the launch of PearlSmith’s website.

Anshu’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation in the fashion world.