Across industries and disciplines, these 25 remarkable individuals have turned ambition into action and dreams into lasting impact. The Visionary 25 brings you inspiring stories of Indian men and women who dared to think differently, overcame odds, and carved out paths that others now aspire to follow.

Whether it’s through groundbreaking innovation, fearless entrepreneurship, or transformative leadership, their journeys reflect a deep passion and purpose. United by a relentless pursuit of excellence, these visionaries are not just chasing success—they’re creating a legacy. Join us as we celebrate their journeys, their triumphs, and the powerful message that with vision and determination, anything is possible.

Nikhil Kamath – Co-Founder – Zerodha

Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath recently sat down with LinkedIn’s global CEO, Ryan Roslansky, and shared his success story, from a high school dropout to a billionaire finance entrepreneur. In conversation with Mr Roslanksy, Mr Kamath revealed how his failures became his biggest lessons. He also shared that his first business venture, which he started when he was in school, was flushed down the toilet by his mother. The entrepreneur even revealed the “lightbulb moment” in his life that led to co-founding one of India’s largest trading platforms. 

Nikhil Kamath is associated with several companies, including Zerodha, True Beacon and Grhuas. Speaking to Mr Roslanksy, he revealed that his first business venture began when he was in the 9th grade. He managed to get his hands on a cellphone and sold it for a profit. Using the money he earned from selling that phone, he bought more cell phones and began a small side hustle. 

However, he hit an unexpected wall when his mother found out about his “business”. She flushed the phones down the toilet, drawing the curtain on Mr Kamath’s short-lived career as an entrepreneur.

But this wasn’t the end of Mr Kamath’s entrepreneurial journey. “As a dropout, he took what for almost anyone else would have been a soul-crushing job: Night shift at a call centre,” per LinkedIn. Between customer service, he taught himself how to trade stocks. Soon after, he started managing investment for his entire team, making more on commissions than from his actual job. 

Gayatri Gandhi, Founder – Joy Factory

Gayatri Gandhi didn’t always know she’d become a professional organiser. For over a decade, she built a thriving career at Discovery Channel—until a book quietly changed the course of her life. When she read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo, it wasn’t just inspiration; it was a wake-up call. What began as a personal journey of decluttering soon became something much bigger: a mission to help others do the same.

In 2017, Gayatri founded Joy Factory, India’s first professional clutter management company, and became the country’s first certified KonMari Consultant trained under Marie Kondo herself. But she didn’t just adopt the method—she adapted and expanded it, creating her own signature approach called C2S2: Collect, Choose, Scrap, Store. It offered a structured yet intuitive way to help people let go of what no longer served them and make space for what truly matters.

Through Joy Factory, Gayatri redefined decluttering—not as a one-time chore but as a mindset and lifestyle. She’s worked with hundreds of clients, conducted over 300 workshops, and sparked a quiet revolution in how people relate to their spaces—and to themselves.

The path wasn’t always smooth. In a world that often dismisses organising as “simple” or “domestic,” Gayatri had to fight to legitimise her work. As a woman entrepreneur carving out a new space, she faced her share of doubts, stereotypes, and setbacks. But she stayed the course, fuelled by purpose and guided by belief. Her persistence paid off—leading to TEDx talks, recognition from top publications, and partnerships with institutions that once wouldn’t have known this kind of work existed.

Beyond the business, Gayatri’s life reflects the same values she brings to her clients: mindfulness, simplicity, and intention. Whether practicing Buddhism or studying human behaviour, she approaches life with curiosity and calm. Her message is simple but powerful: success isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. And in every home she helps transform, she leaves behind more than order—she leaves behind clarity, confidence, and a little more joy.

Siddhesh Shinde, National Core Committee Member, Yuva Sena

Siddhesh Shinde’s journey into politics began at the young age of 20 when he actively joined Yuvasena under the leadership of Aaditya Thackeray. Currently serving as a member of Aaditya Thackeray’s national core committee, Siddhesh represents a promising new generation of political leaders. Coming from a political family, Siddhesh had long nurtured the dream of pursuing a career in politics. Growing up in an environment deeply connected to public service naturally shaped his passion and commitment toward making a difference.

Reflecting on his journey so far, Siddhesh believes he is just at the beginning and chooses not to categorize any moment as a “high” or a “low” yet. His perspective is shaped by ambition and resilience, especially through challenging times, such as when Shivsena faced internal splits driven by personal greed. For Siddhesh, every experience is part of a much larger journey still unfolding.

In both personal and professional spheres, Siddhesh draws inspiration from his father, whom he considers his first role model. At the same time, Aaditya Thackeray has remained a guiding force, someone Siddhesh looks up to with deep respect and loyalty. He acknowledges that politics is a tough field, but his belief in dedication, passion, and resilience helps him view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than barriers.

Outside of politics, Siddhesh is a traveler at heart. A true foodie, he enjoys exploring new places, savoring local cuisines, spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and playing cricket. Despite the heavy demands of political life, he believes in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling personal life.

A strong advocate for youth involvement in governance, Siddhesh emphasizes the importance of not just criticizing the system but becoming active participants in reshaping it. Proud of the people who have stood by him, he looks forward to creating larger moments of pride in the future. With high ambitions and clear goals in politics, Siddhesh remains committed to achieving his vision alongside his mentors, Aaditya Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray, with loyalty and unwavering spirit.

Viraj Ghelani

Introducing Viraj Ghelani, the seasoned comedy content creator who has seamlessly woven himself into the fabric of suburban Mumbai life. If you’ve ever found yourself chuckling at the quirks of suburban existence, chances are you’ve crossed paths with one of Viraj’s relatable videos. Particularly resonant with the Gujarati community, Viraj has become a familiar and beloved figure in the digital landscape.

Known for his contributions to Dice Media and FilterCopy videos, Viraj transitioned from the guy-next-door in web content to making his mark in Bollywood. Making his Dharma movie debut in “Govinda Naam Hai Mera” as Bhumi Pednekar’s boyfriend, Viraj has effortlessly extended his charm to the big screen.

Yet, beyond the screen, Viraj Ghelani remains a humble and passionate creator, drawing energy from his fans and finding inspiration in family bonds. His philosophy centers around embracing the present, acknowledging that every past experience converges to shape the cherished moments of today. This conversation unfolds the fascinating journey of Viraj, tracing his steps from the streets of Borivali to the grand stages of Bollywood.

Unnati Malharkar

In the world of fashion, where trends change like the wind, some individuals possess the unique ability to captivate audiences, shape styles, and inspire millions with their effortless flair. One such influential personality is Unnati Malharkar, a dancer, fashion influencer, and blogger whose creativity and distinctive style have made her a prominent figure in the industry.

Formerly started as a TikTok sensation and now an Instagram influencer, Unnati’s journey began like many others, but her undeniable talent and passion for dance and fashion set her apart from the crowd. She soon realized the power of self-expression through dancing. With a keen eye for detail and an uncanny ability to predict upcoming trends, she became a beacon of inspiration.

Her outfits effortlessly fuse chic couture with accessible pieces, making her style approachable for her followers. From trendy streetwear to elegant Indian wear, she flawlessly navigates the fashion landscape, encouraging her audience to experiment and embrace their own unique fashion identities.

Unnati Malharkar is more than just a content creator; she is a force to be reckoned with. Her creativity knows no bounds, and her impact on the digital landscape is undeniable. With each video she creates, she reminds us all the power of chasing our dreams, embracing our passions, and spreading happiness along the way.

Shreya Mahajan

Shreya Mahajan is the founder of The Social Sphere, a New Delhi-based marketing and PR agency specializing in creating innovative strategies for luxury fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands. Alongside her entrepreneurial journey, she is a dedicated fashion and lifestyle content creator, sharing her passion for styling and personal expression.

Her journey began during the Covid-19 lockdown when Shreya started creating outfit inspiration content, giving life to her love for fashion. This creative exploration encouraged her to leave a stable corporate job and pursue a master’s in Fashion Marketing at Nottingham Trent University. Combining her marketing expertise, passion for fashion, and valuable internship experiences, Shreya launched her agency in March 2024.

Shreya finds inspiration in trailblazing women like Masoom Minawala and Falguni Nayar. However, her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. As a woman, she faced societal pressures and subtle judgments for stepping away from a conventional career path to follow her dreams. Building a career in a competitive industry while defying norms required resilience, but staying aligned with her vision kept her motivated.

To aspiring digital creators and influencers, Shreya emphasizes the importance of authenticity and consistency. She encourages them to embrace their individuality, create meaningful content for their audience, and experiment with fresh ideas. According to her, growth may take time, but perseverance, strategy, and staying true to oneself build a loyal community.

Shreya describes her success as a work in progress. From leaving a corporate job at Deloitte to building her own business and nurturing a community, each step has been a testament to her determination. With the support of her family, mentors, and personal resilience, she has steadily moved closer to her goals. Shreya hopes her story inspires others to trust in their abilities and take bold leaps of faith toward their dreams.

Patralekha

Patralekha is a fashion stylist and influencer who has turned her passion for style and creative expression into a thriving career. Known for her ability to curate unique and personal looks for her niche clientele, she brings a blend of artistry and individuality to everything she does.

From an early age, she was the go-to friend for outfit advice and closet makeovers, always experimenting with colors, textures, and fresh ideas. Sharing her styled outfits on Instagram was a turning point—what began as a hobby quickly grew into a profession, fueled by admiration for her fashion sense and her ability to inspire confidence through style.

Drawing inspiration from global fashion icons and everyday people alike, Patralekha finds beauty in the way personal style reflects individuality. She believes that creativity thrives when authenticity meets boldness. Her journey, however, hasn’t been without challenges.

Breaking into the competitive fashion industry required resilience, especially as she worked to establish her voice in a space that often favors convention over innovation. Balancing the artistic side of styling with the practical demands of being a digital creator was another hurdle, but she’s met it head-on, staying true to her vision while navigating the pressures of engagement and validation.

When she isn’t styling, Patralekha channels her creativity into painting and creating unique artworks, another avenue where her artistic spirit shines. Her advice to aspiring creators is simple: stay original and focused. In a fast-paced digital world, she believes authenticity and persistence set people apart.

Her success is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and the joy of inspiring others to embrace their confidence through fashion. For Patralekha, fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about empowering people to feel good in their own skin.

Iti Khinchi

Iti Khinchi is a mom blogger and digital creator known for sharing the humorous and relatable aspects of motherhood through her engaging reels and content. She connects with other mothers by offering a light-hearted perspective on the everyday chaos of parenting, turning the often challenging moments into shared experiences filled with laughter and support.

Iti’s journey into mom blogging began when she found motherhood to be more complex than she initially thought. Seeking a creative outlet to navigate this new chapter of her life, she started documenting her experiences and venting her frustrations. What began as a personal project quickly grew into a platform where she could connect with other moms. Her reels, capturing the hilarity of daily parenting moments, resonated with many, marking the start of her successful career as a mom blogger.

The community of moms Iti has connected with serves as her biggest inspiration. Each mother’s unique story and struggle remind her that she is not alone, and their resilience and creativity continually motivate her. As a woman, Iti has faced the challenge of balancing personal and professional life amidst high societal expectations. However, she has found that embracing her imperfections and sharing them openly has been key to building a genuine and supportive community.

Beyond creating content, Iti is deeply involved in her daughter’s upbringing, which remains her top priority. She also explores new hobbies, from trying different forms of art to reading books that inspire creativity and growth. Being present in her family’s life and creating lasting memories together is essential to her.

To aspiring digital creators and influencers, Iti emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and one’s story. Authenticity, she believes, is what resonates most with people. She encourages others not to fear sharing the messy, imperfect parts of life, as real connections are forged in those moments. Patience is also crucial—success doesn’t happen overnight. Iti advises focusing on building a community rather than just a following, as the rewards will naturally follow.

For Iti, success is not measured by numbers or accolades but by the smiles and laughter of her family when they watch her reels and the supportive comments from her community. Every time she brightens someone’s day or helps a fellow mom feel less alone, she considers it a success. Her journey is about discovering new facets of herself and finding joy in the everyday moments of motherhood.

Meghna Verma

Meghna Verma is a corporate lawyer, enrolled with the Delhi Bar Association, who has also gained experience as an educator. After living in Hyderabad, she returned to her hometown, New Delhi.

During the pandemic, she, like many others, felt the mental strain caused by social distancing. To maintain her well-being, Meghna ventured into the digital world, quickly building connections and discovering a passion for content creation.

Inspired by figures in fitness, motherhood, food blogging, and fashion, she loves trying new things and sharing her experiences. However, Meghna has faced challenges as an influencer, particularly the misconception that the role is easy and requires minimal effort. She knows the reality is different—balancing home responsibilities with external commitments demands discipline and the ability to improvise. Meghna emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong mental and physical health to meet the demands of a hectic schedule.

As a homemaker, she thrives on balancing her family life with pursuits outside the home. Meghna advises aspiring influencers to work with dedication, commitment, and passion, always promoting what they truly believe in. For her, authenticity and simplicity are key to making a real impact.

Roohi Baweja

Roohi Baweja is a luxury fashion and lifestyle influencer, an editor in the fashion & lifestyle beat in the Luxurious lifestyle newspaper ‘Zoom Delhi’. With a background in interior design and computers, Roohi has also gained experience working with Amul India in the administration and HR departments.

A year ago, she embarked on her journey into the world of fashion influencing, and since then, her presence has grown significantly. Roohi has had the privilege of being associated with various prestigious fashion and lifestyle brands. She’s been a part of FDCI Couture Week, sharing the front row with celebrities and renowned designers such as Bobby Deol, Arjun Kapoor, Malaika Arora, Sonam Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Neha Dhupia, Jay Sean, Sonakshi Sinha, Sabyasachi, Dolly J, Rohit Bal, and Gaurav Gupta.

Roohi is also known for showcasing the latest collections from international luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Valentino, and Bulgari. She regularly visits these high-end stores to present their newest pieces to her audience, bringing global fashion trends directly to her followers.

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.

Ruthika Bung

Ruthika Bung is a digital marketer, content creator, and full-time mom whose journey reflects resilience, reinvention, and purpose. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, her career took an unexpected turn when she moved to the U.S. and chose to step away from her job to focus on her family. What began as a break turned into a turning point. Immersed in motherhood, Ruthika started sharing simple, creative DIY activities she did with her daughter. Her content quickly resonated with other mothers, sparking conversations, community, and curiosity. Recognizing the power of digital platforms, she studied digital marketing and began consulting for brands while simultaneously building her personal brand.

Her daughter remains her greatest inspiration — the driving force behind The Mom Explorer, a platform dedicated to printable and activity-based resources that promote joyful learning. Ruthika didn’t face conventional professional barriers, but leaving behind a thriving career and adapting to life in a new country came with its own emotional challenges. However, what once felt like a detour turned into a discovery of her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Alongside her work, Ruthika remains a dedicated learner and parent. She devotes time to reading, enrolling in courses on parenting, and curating content around family life, travel, and connection. Through her journey, she champions authenticity, urging aspiring women to embrace their path, avoid comparisons, and stay rooted in purpose.

Her success is defined not by numbers, but by the community she has built — moms who feel seen, supported, and inspired by her story. From simple videos to brand partnerships, Ruthika’s journey continues to evolve, proof that growth often begins in the most unexpected places, and that passion, when pursued with heart, always finds its way forward.