Special Editions
Next-Gen Leaders: Top 10 Indian Startup Founders Changing the Game
In a rapidly evolving business landscape, a new generation of leaders is emerging, poised to redefine the rules of entrepreneurship. “Next-Gen Leaders: Top 24 Indian Startup Founders Changing the Game” celebrates the visionaries who are at the forefront of this transformation.
These trailblazers are not only driving innovation and creating groundbreaking solutions but are also inspiring a new wave of entrepreneurs across the nation. Their remarkable journeys, filled with resilience and creativity, highlight the dynamic spirit of India’s startup ecosystem and the limitless potential it holds for the future.
Shantanu Deshpande: Founder of Bombay Shaving Company
The 36 years old Shantanu Deshpande is the founder of Bombay Shaving Company, a grooming brand that has taken the Indian market by storm. As a graduate of IIM-Lucknow and former advisor at McKinsey and Co, Deshpande has brought his expertise to the table, creating a line of 60 hair and skin products that cater to all grooming needs. Whether you’re looking to rock a hipster beard like Virat Kohli or keep it clean-shaven, Bombay Shaving Company has got you covered.
The company was launched in 2016, with the aim of offering a premium shaving experience to those who were tired of using run-of-the-mill products. Since then, it has expanded its offerings to include a range of grooming products, from trimmers to women’s shaving products. The company’s success can be attributed to its ability to diversify its consumer base and leverage strategic investments from competitors Reckitt Benckiser and Colgate Palmolive.
With an annual recurring revenue of Rs.180-190 crore and plans to expand to 200,000 stores by year-end, Deshpande is poised to take Bombay Shaving Company to new heights. His goal is to build a Rs.25-crore-a-month business by the end of the year, with a 70-30 split between men and women’s products. As the company continues to grow and innovate, Deshpande’s vision of offering a premium grooming experience to all remains at the forefront.
Pragati Bhatia, Founder – Rapra Nightwear & Bedgasm Sleepwear
Pragati Bhatia is the creative mind behind Rapra Nightwear & Bedgasm Sleepwear and a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to crafting the epitome of comfort in sleepwear and loungewear. From morning coffees to slipping into slumber, her creations envelop you in unparalleled comfort, blending couture with cozy elegance that beckons you to surrender.
Pragati’s passion for fashion and apparel ignited the spark to start her own business, driven by a desire to create something remarkable and influential. As a young entrepreneur, she faced numerous challenges, including navigating the vast landscape of industry knowledge and taking responsibility for every aspect of her business. Through exhaustive research and resource allocation, she struck a balance between commerce and creativity, overcoming obstacles with determination and resilience.
She envisions Rapra Nightwear & Bedgasm Sleepwear as a transformative force in shaping the future of India. Her goal is to redefine the perception of sleepwear and loungewear, empowering individuals to prioritize self-care and personal expression. Through collaborations with artisans, she promotes Indian craftsmanship and contributes to a more conscious fashion industry, inspiring a society that values well-being and style.
Richa Sharma, Founder – House of RM, Social Activist & Psychologist
Richa Sharma is a dynamic individual who has always strived to stand out, whether in school, college, or any other endeavor. Her journey has been marked by a deep desire to carve her own path, which led her to explore various fields and even start working at the age of 17 to gain experience. Despite her early success as an editor in a media house, she longed for something more—a desire to become an entrepreneur.
In 2019, Richa had a life-altering experience that brought her close to death, granting her a second chance at life in 2020. This profound experience humbled her and grounded her, reshaping her perspective on life. The pandemic further reinforced the importance of mental health, inspiring her to pursue a diploma in psychology. Recognizing that many people suffer in silence, Richa was driven to make a meaningful impact by offering a listening ear and supporting those in need.
Richa draws her strength from within, finding inspiration in her own journey rather than in the achievements of others. She admires those who work hard, regardless of the scale of their efforts, but remains steadfast in her belief that her purpose is to shine light on others. Her life philosophy revolves around being content with who she is, free from the pressures of competition or societal expectations. Although she has faced struggles and received more criticism than encouragement, Richa thrives on proving others wrong and achieving her goals.
Outside of her professional life, Richa is a social and outgoing person who loves to write, read, explore new places, and meet new people. She prioritizes spending quality time with her family, dedicating one day each week to disconnecting from technology and focusing entirely on her loved ones.
Richa’s message to others is simple yet powerful: pursue what you love, take inspiration and advice when needed, but never let others dictate your destiny. For her, a successful life is not defined by external measures but by living humbly, surrounded by those she loves, and having the freedom to do what brings her joy.
Shilpa Seth Bhambri, Culinary Maestro
Shilpa Seth Bhambri is a highly regarded culinary expert and brand advisor, boasting over 25 years of extensive experience in the culinary world, with a particular specialization in desserts, cakes, and ice cream. As the founder and owner of the successful bakery and cake boutique, The Cakeline, Shilpa has built a reputation for excellence in her craft. Her journey has since evolved, transitioning into the realm of quick-service restaurant (QSR) and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) brand culinary consultancy. Currently, she serves as the Head of Culinary for Baskin-Robbins India, where she plays a pivotal role in curating and developing innovative culinary concepts and products that resonate with consumers.
In her latest endeavours, Shilpa has curated a new product profile for Purple Room by Cadbury India, showcasing her ability to blend creativity with market trends. Her expertise is not limited to product development; she is also an experienced bakery and culinary trainer, having designed customized solution models aimed at empowering home bakers, entrepreneurs, and new start-ups. This training not only enhances skills but also fosters a sense of community among aspiring culinary professionals.
Recently, Shilpa curated an exciting Mother’s Day chocolate-centric workshop for Cadbury India, in collaboration with Fresh Pik. This event highlighted her passion for sharing knowledge and her commitment to engaging with the culinary community. Shilpa’s workshops are known for their interactive nature, providing participants with hands-on experience while learning from her wealth of knowledge.
As an influential figure in the culinary space, Shilpa is also a dynamic chef, lifestyle influencer, and food blogger. Through her platform, @chefshilpasethbhambri, she delights her audience with a wide array of culinary creations, restaurant and expo reviews ranging from decadent desserts to food products & trends. Her engaging content not only showcases her skills but also inspires her followers to embrace their own culinary journeys.
Balancing her professional commitments with family life, Shilpa is a proud mother to twin boys. She skilfully manages her time, ensuring that she can craft delicious meals for her family while also maintaining her energy through gym & fitness sessions. This balance reflects her belief in the importance of health and well-being, both for herself and her family.
Despite her numerous accomplishments, Shilpa’s journey has not been without challenges. Transitioning from a homemaker to a corporate professional presented its own set of hurdles, including mastering new technologies and navigating gender biases within the corporate landscape. However, her resilience and determination have enabled her to overcome these obstacles and thrive in her career.
Shilpa’s advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is both empowering and practical. She encourages them to embrace their unique qualities, carry themselves with confidence, and remain persistent in their efforts. By doing so, she believes that women can carve out their own distinct paths to success, inspiring others along the way. Her story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s dreams in the culinary world and beyond.
Hetal Kothari, Founder – Che & Cha Couture
Hetal Kothari is a fashion designer whose deep passion for fashion has been a part of her since childhood. From a young age, she knew she wanted to become a fashion creator, driven by a love for style, design, and the art of clothing. Today, she has turned that childhood dream into reality as the owner of Che & Cha Couture, where she specializes in shirt designing, bringing her creative visions to life with unique and stylish pieces that reflect her distinctive approach to fashion.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hetal is also a dedicated housewife and the proud mother of two daughters. Balancing her roles as a mother and an entrepreneur, she has found immense joy and fulfillment in both areas of her life. Her journey has been strongly supported by her husband and family, who have been her pillars of strength, encouraging her every step of the way.
In addition to running her own fashion label, Hetal is also the co-founder of Raaha Events, where she combines her love for fashion with event management, creating memorable experiences that are as stylish as they are seamless. With the unwavering support of her loved ones and her deep-seated passion for fashion, Hetal continues to inspire others with her dedication, creativity, and the graceful way she balances all the facets of her life.
In the dynamic world of digital influence, India’s Top Mom Influencers 2025 are leading the way, redefining motherhood and social media engagement. These inspiring women go beyond sharing parenting tips and lifestyle advice—they are shaping trends, building communities, and sparking meaningful discussions on key social issues.
By blending personal stories with professional expertise, these moms are carving their space as influential voices in the digital arena. This year, we spotlight the journeys and strategies of these remarkable women who are setting new standards in the industry.
Jessica Walia Suri, Mom influencer, brand manager & yoga teacher
Jessica Walia is a mom influencer, brand manager and yoga teacher with a unique passion for storytelling and authenticity. She works diligently to build and shape brand identities, guiding products from concept to launch with a deep focus on connecting them with their audience in a meaningful way. Alongside her career, Jessica’s journey into yoga, which began as a personal hobby, has evolved into her becoming a teacher. Encouraged by her husband, this shift added a new layer to her life, enriching her approach to both brand development and personal growth.
Jessica’s inspiration comes from the strength and resilience of mothers. She deeply admires their ability to balance the demands of work, family, and personal passions, finding motivation in their ability to navigate it all with grace. This inspiration fuels her drive to break barriers and fully embrace her own journey with purpose and confidence.
As a woman, Jessica acknowledges the challenges of being constantly on the go. She’s learned the value of slowing down and savoring each moment, allowing experiences to sink in fully. This mindfulness has been key to both her personal and professional growth.
Outside of her work, Jessica is fully immersed in the exciting and joyful journey of being a first-time mom. Balancing the demands of her career with motherhood has been a whirlwind adventure, but she treasures every memory she’s creating with her husband and child. The laughter, chaos, and joy of this phase in her life are cherished deeply.
Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is to embrace their inner strength. Jessica believes that women are natural multitaskers, but it’s equally important to take a breath and enjoy the journey. She encourages others to own their unique path and celebrate each step along the way.
Jessica’s success is built on passion and her ability to balance it all. Splitting her time between Europe and India, she navigates the excitement and challenges of her career and motherhood with grace. Each day is a new opportunity for growth, filled with unforgettable memories and moments. For Jessica, this vibrant, ever-changing journey is one she wouldn’t trade for anything.
Jessica’s inspiration comes not only from her mother but also from her father, who has been an equal pillar of strength in her life. Her dad has always reminded her that with patience and love, you can overcome anything, while her dad often said, “In silence, you find your strength, and with love, you find your light.” These powerful words have guided Jessica through every challenge, shaping her approach to life.
She feels blessed to have both her parents as her foundation, their unwavering support and wisdom always pushing her forward. Now, as Jessica sees so many young mothers balancing everything with grace, it’s eye-opening and inspiring. They, too, have become a source of strength and motivation on her journey.
Seema Lalwani, Mom Influencer, Lifestyle & fashion content creator
Seema Lalwani is a vibrant lifestyle and fashion content creator, freelance writer, and artist whose journey exemplifies resilience, creativity, and passion. Her career took a pivotal turn after her tenure at British Airways, when she decided to embrace her love for writing, art, and self-expression. This bold move became the foundation of a fulfilling career built on authenticity and creativity.
Seema initially began her journey by sharing her experiences as a new mom through blogging and Instagram. Over time, her content evolved from parenting to lifestyle and fashion, establishing her as a relatable and inspiring voice. She expanded her skill set, collaborating with D2C brands, ghostwriting for LinkedIn and blogs, and carving a niche as a trusted freelance content writer.
Creativity has always been Seema’s forte. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she rediscovered her passion for art, starting with intricate mandalas and eventually teaching herself resin art. What began as a therapeutic hobby quickly transformed into a professional venture, where she crafted and sold unique handmade items. This artistic endeavor showcased her ability to adapt and innovate, turning her creativity into a thriving business.
Seema draws inspiration from trailblazers like Masoom Minawala Mehta and Kritika Khurana, whose journeys exemplify passion and determination. Her own path, however, hasn’t been without challenges. Balancing her career with motherhood in a nuclear family setup has been a continuous learning experience. From facing societal expectations to managing creative blocks and personal guilt, Seema has overcome each obstacle with resilience and grace.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Seema is an avid dancer, a budding graphic designer, and a proud plant parent. These hobbies fuel her creativity and provide her with a sense of balance and fulfillment.
Her message to aspiring professionals is centered on authenticity and perseverance. Seema encourages others to embrace their unique paths, take small but consistent steps, and focus on what truly matters. She believes challenges are opportunities in disguise, and resilience often grows in moments of doubt.
Seema’s journey is not just about personal accomplishments—it’s about inspiring others to unlock their potential. Whether through her writing, art, or content creation, she continues to make a meaningful impact, proving that success lies in staying true to oneself while celebrating the beauty of imperfection.
Komal Khettry Patni, Mom Influencer
Komal Khettry Patni, fondly known as Candid Maa, is a trailblazing mom influencer who has redefined what it means to be a modern mother. A former business journalist, Komal combined her love for storytelling with her journey through motherhood to create content that resonates with moms across the globe. Her creative Reels and authentic posts capture the joys and challenges of parenting while encouraging women to embrace their individuality and dreams.
Supported by her joint family, Komal skillfully balances motherhood and content creation, proving that a strong support system can be a game-changer. Her content isn’t just about parenting tips but also a celebration of self-expression, inspiring moms to pursue their passions—whether it’s dancing, cooking, or exploring a new hobby. Her achievement as “Mrs. Social 2023” is a testament to her influence and dedication, marking a milestone in her mission to empower mothers.
Komal’s journey also shines a light on the positive side of living in a joint family, with her in-laws and mother-in-law being her biggest cheerleaders. She believes in breaking stereotypes and showing that such setups can foster strength, unity, and happiness.
Her core message to moms is simple yet profound: don’t let motherhood define the limits of your potential. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby or a career, every small step matters. Komal firmly believes that when moms are happy and fulfilled, it creates a ripple effect, making families happier and stronger. Through her content, she continues to inspire countless moms to embrace their authenticity and thrive in every role they take on.
Garima Arora
Garima Arora is a full-time content creator and mom influencer whose journey began unexpectedly, rooted in the everyday chaos and charm of motherhood. Formerly an HR professional and boho jewellery exporter, she found her true calling in sharing relatable, humorous glimpses into desi family life. Her audience quickly connected with the raw honesty in her posts—authentic moments that made people laugh, cry, and feel a little less alone.
Her children are both her inspiration and her content’s soul. The transition from corporate life to digital storytelling wasn’t seamless. Like many women, she faced the challenge of reclaiming an identity beyond motherhood. Juggling kids, home, and a budding online presence tested her resilience, but also revealed her strength.
While content creation is now her profession, she continues to embrace her role as a hands-on mom. Her love for fashion and her past in boho jewellery often find their way into her feed, with the occasional spark to revive those business dreams.
Garima’s story is a reminder that motherhood can be the start of something new. She didn’t aim for fame—she aimed to connect. Her message to fellow moms is simple: be real, be kind to yourself, and share your story. There’s power in your voice, even in the messiest moments.
Special Editions
From Dreams to Reality: Top 10 Entrepreneurs Redefining the Indian Wedding Industry
The Indian wedding industry, often synonymous with grandeur, innovation, and cultural significance, is undergoing a remarkable transformation in 2025. At the forefront of this evolution are ten trailblazing entrepreneurs who have redefined how weddings are envisioned and executed.
From crafting opulent Big Fat Indian Weddings to setting global trends in luxury, technology, and personalization, these visionaries are reshaping the industry. Their contributions go beyond aesthetics, introducing innovative business models, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge technology to elevate every celebration into an unforgettable experience.
Mehak Shahani, Co-Founder of WedMeGood
Mehak Shahani co-founded WedMeGood, a leading wedding portal and resource guide, with her husband in 2014. Based in Gurugram, the platform simplifies wedding planning for users, offering curated vendor lists, inspiration, and tools to plan every detail.
In September 2015, WedMeGood secured Rs 2.7 crore in funding from the Indian Angel Network (IAN), followed by $2.6 million in a Series A funding round from Orchid India last month. Mehak, a postgraduate from the Delhi School of Economics (DSE), previously worked as a risk manager at American Express. A true multi-tasker and serial entrepreneur, she also runs a popular makeup and fashion blog, Peaches and Blush.
Rishav Poddar, Founder – ShaadiNamaa
Rishav Poddar, the visionary founder of ShaadiNamaa, has established a prominent presence in the Indian wedding industry over the past 12 years. His company is dedicated to creating unforgettable wedding experiences by offering end-to-end planning services—from conceptualization to execution—helping couples turn their dream weddings into reality.
Rishav’s passion for weddings and event management led him to create ShaadiNamaa. His journey began with planning his first wedding over a decade ago, and his expertise and commitment quickly earned him word-of-mouth referrals. This helped his business grow steadily, leading to ShaadiNamaa’s position as one of India’s top wedding planning companies.
ShaadiNamaa has successfully planned weddings across India, from intimate celebrations to large-scale events. Among its notable achievements are two destination weddings in Rajasthan that were featured in renowned wedding magazines. The company has also had the honor of planning weddings for prominent Indian families.
The wedding planning industry is highly competitive, and Rishav faced the challenge of standing out in this crowded space. To overcome this, ShaadiNamaa focused on delivering exceptional customer service, personalized wedding designs, and experiences that reflect the unique personalities of each couple. Their attention to detail has set them apart from competitors.
Rishav finds inspiration in his clients’ joy, which fuels his dedication to creating memorable experiences. The creativity and innovation of other wedding professionals also inspire him to stay at the forefront of trends in the industry.
To stay ahead in the ever-changing wedding space, ShaadiNamaa keeps up with the latest trends through industry events, workshops, and social media. Networking with other wedding professionals and encouraging creative thinking within the team allows ShaadiNamaa to continuously offer fresh, innovative ideas to make each wedding unique.
Rishav advises aspiring entrepreneurs to build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and industry peers. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, flexibility, and organization, and encourages newcomers to think outside the box. Unique and creative ideas often make all the difference in this competitive field.
One of Rishav’s most unforgettable moments was planning a wedding for a couple who had been engaged for 10 years. The couple’s emotional joy and the beautiful exchange of vows reaffirmed his passion for the industry and reminded him of his purpose: to create lasting memories for couples on their special day.
As the Indian wedding industry continues to evolve, Rishav envisions ShaadiNamaa leading the way in wedding design and planning. The company is committed to embracing sustainable, eco-friendly practices while providing exceptional experiences. Rishav’s vision is to continue shaping the future of weddings in India, ensuring each event is as unique as the couple it celebrates.
Nitin Mathur, Co-founder – The Wedding Square
Nitin Mathur, co-founder of The Wedding Square, has spent over 27 years crafting unforgettable wedding experiences that blend tradition with contemporary elegance. His journey into the wedding industry began unexpectedly through event planning, but the magic of orchestrating celebrations that bring families together quickly became his passion.
With The Wedding Square, Nitin and his team transform each couple’s vision into reality, handling every detail—from venue selection to décor and coordination—so families can fully immerse themselves in the joy of the occasion. Whether it’s a grand affair in Italy, France, or Spain, or an intimate gathering in India, he ensures every wedding is personal, meaningful, and flawlessly executed.
Building a brand in such a competitive industry hasn’t been without challenges. Trends evolve rapidly, expectations are diverse, and destination weddings bring their own complexities. But for Nitin, each obstacle has been an opportunity to innovate, adapt, and push creative boundaries. His greatest inspiration comes from the couples and families he works with—their stories, traditions, and dreams fuel his passion to redefine wedding planning in India.
Staying ahead in the industry requires constant learning. Nitin travels, collaborates with global creatives, and immerses himself in diverse cultural experiences to bring fresh perspectives to his designs while honoring timeless traditions. Through his work, he has witnessed firsthand how weddings can be more than just extravagant events; they can be deeply personal experiences that bridge cultures and create lasting memories.
Looking ahead, he envisions the Indian wedding industry embracing both grandeur and sustainability. With The Wedding Square, he hopes to pioneer practices that not only create spectacular celebrations but also leave a positive impact. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: stay authentic, listen to your clients, and never lose sight of the joy that weddings bring.
Pradeep Jaiswani, Founder and CEO – The Stage Craft Jaipur
Pradeep Jaiswani is the Founder and CEO of The Stage Craft Jaipur, a name that’s become synonymous with creativity and excellence in the wedding and event décor industry. Carrying forward a legacy rooted in a 60-year-old family-run production and décor house started by his father, Pradeep has taken the reins and transformed the business into a cutting-edge, nationally recognized brand.
With a master’s degree from London, he brings a thoughtful balance of global perspective and local sensibility to every project. Under his leadership, The Stage Craft Jaipur has become known for its bespoke designs, precision execution, and seamless in-house production capabilities. With offices in Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi, the brand’s presence now extends across India.
From intimate celebrations to grand affairs, The Stage Craft Jaipur has curated décor for some of the country’s most high-profile weddings and events—including celebrity nuptials and high-end political and corporate gatherings. Their portfolio includes iconic moments at the Jaipur Literature Festival, the World Flower Exhibition (WAFA), the Round Table Conference, and the YPO Annual Meet.
Pradeep’s approach is rooted in detail, storytelling, and pushing creative boundaries. The company’s trusted reputation has earned it a spot as an official décor partner for some of India’s most prestigious venues, including Taj Jai Mahal Palace, ITC Rajputana, and ITC Mementos in Jaipur. Accolades and industry awards continue to recognize their exceptional work.
What sets Pradeep apart is his vision—one that seamlessly fuses traditional artistry with modern design. His passion and forward-thinking leadership have made The Stage Craft Jaipur one of India’s leading names in event décor, with each project a reflection of timeless elegance and contemporary innovation.
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