In a year defined by resilience, innovation, and bold change, The Unstoppable 25 brings you the stories of 25 phenomenal Indian women who are leading the charge. From tech to arts, social impact to entrepreneurship, these women are not just breaking barriers—they’re rewriting the rules altogether.

Each of their journeys is a testament to courage, grit, and vision. Whether it’s challenging the status quo, paving new paths in male-dominated spaces, or inspiring communities with their unwavering determination, these changemakers are setting the tone for the future.

This special feature celebrates their drive, their triumphs, and the powerful ripple effects of their work across the country. As we spotlight their achievements, we also honor the spirit of every woman who dares to dream and do. Meet the 25 women who aren’t just making waves in 2025—they’re shaping the tides of tomorrow.

Vineeta Singh, CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics

Vineeta Singh, the founder and CEO of Sugar Cosmetics, is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, in India and beyond. Her journey began in Lucknow, where she excelled academically, earning gold medals in school and college. She later attended IIT Madras, where she discovered her passion for badminton, and IIM Ahmedabad, where she completed the Mumbai Marathon.

Despite receiving a lucrative offer in investment banking, Vineeta’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found Fab-Bag, a beauty subscription service, before launching SUGAR Cosmetics in 2015 with her husband, Kaushik Mukherjee. SUGAR filled a gap in the Indian beauty market by offering vibrant, high-quality cosmetics for diverse skin tones at affordable prices, resonating with young Indian women.

Vineeta’s journey, marked by initial setbacks and lessons learned, reflects her commitment to innovation and empowerment. As an investor and judge on Shark Tank India, she continues to inspire others with her insightful feedback and championing of innovative ideas. Vineeta’s story underscores the importance of self-belief and perseverance in achieving remarkable success.

Dr. Geeta Sajid Fazalbhoy, Founder & Managing Director – Skin & You Clinic

Dr. Geeta Sajid Fazalbhoy is a certified dermatologist and aesthetic medicine expert with over 15 years of experience. As the Founder and Managing Director of Skin & You Clinic, she specializes in anti-aging treatments, lasers, skin rejuvenation, and advanced face-lifting procedures. Her passion for dermatology was sparked during her medical studies—after earning her MBBS in Mumbai, she pursued dermatology in Cardiff, UK, and later received her certification in Aesthetic Medicine from the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine.

Over the years, Dr. Geeta has built a reputation for precision, innovation, and patient-focused care. With clinics in Nariman Point and Bandra, and a new centre underway in Mumbai, her journey is one of constant growth. She proudly treats both Indian and international patients and keeps herself updated through global conferences and trainings.

Her biggest inspiration has always been her mother, whose resilience and dedication left a lasting impression. As a woman in the medical profession, Dr. Geeta believes that challenges in the workplace are universal, but it’s consistency, hard work, and staying true to your values that truly define success.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Geeta is a devoted mother of three and a fitness enthusiast. Balancing her thriving career and family is her proudest achievement.

Her message to aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: “Have patience. Everything takes time. Stay grounded, hold onto your values, and success will follow.”

She credits much of her success to her faith and the unwavering support of her loved ones, who have always believed in her journey.

Bhavna Harchandrai, PROPRIETOR – Fitness Fundas studio

Bhavna Harchandrai, an INTERNATIONALLY CERTIFIED FITNESS INSTRUCTOR, BESTSELLING AUTHOR, and PROPRIETOR of Fitness Fundas studio in Malabar Hill, Mumbai, is a well-known name in India’s fitness industry. She has built her career on a foundation of passion, resilience, and continuous learning. From being a Throwball champion and SPORTS CAPTAIN in school to pioneering new fitness formats in India, her journey is a testament to what dedication and self-belief can achieve.

Her interest in fitness began early. As a student in the ’90s, she would save her allowance to enroll in aerobics classes—the very first of their kind in Mumbai. While working at Maersk India and preparing for her MBA, she observed how many high-achieving professionals were leading stressful, sedentary lives. That insight pushed her to pursue a full-time career in fitness, choosing health over the hustle of corporate life. Over the last 25 years, she has earned numerous certifications including Pilates, Animal Flow, and Zumba, and has introduced India to innovative formats like Boot-Camp, Trampoline Fitness, and Penalty Box training.

Bhavna’s career has seen many highs—being Head of Group Exercise at Gold’s Gym and other major studios, writing for top publications like Vogue and Hindustan Times, and becoming an Under Armour athlete. She also authored ‘5 Fingers of Fitness’, which became an Amazon bestseller, and has even hosted a fitness show on Tata Play. But she is quick to acknowledge the lows, embracing them with the same energy and optimism. Her guiding belief is simple yet powerful: if there’s even a 2% chance of success, it’s worth giving your 100%.

Her inspiration comes from her grandmother, a refugee from Partition-era India, who instilled in her the value of hard work and learning. Bhavna’s sessions reflect her unique, creative approach—combining elements like boxing drills on a step or yoga flow with stability balls to keep fitness both fun and functional.

Away from the studio, Bhavna finds joy in cooking, meditation, and decorating her home. Her message to the world is grounded and real: progress takes time, and every small effort counts.

Pixie Singh Salaria, Founder – ZERQASH by Pixie

Pixie Singh Salaria is the creative force behind ZERQASH by Pixie, a bespoke couture label inspired by the grandeur of India’s royal gharanas. As the Founder, Couturier, and Stylist, Pixie blends heritage with elegance, curating heirloom-inspired designs with an eye for detail and refinement.

Her journey into fashion was serendipitous. Designing her own ensembles for family occasions, Pixie was encouraged by her daughter to transform her passion into a brand—and that leap of faith paid off. Today, ZERQASH is recognized for its luxurious fabrics, impeccable craftsmanship, and loyal clientele built through goodwill and word of mouth.

Before fashion, Pixie carved her path in the world of entertainment. She is a seasoned film producer and television presenter, having worked with BAFTA and showcased her film at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010. This creative background laid the foundation for her aesthetic sensibilities and storytelling through design.

Pixie takes pride in being her own inspiration. She believes empowerment is inherent in every woman and is often only realized when she steps into her purpose. For her, the entrepreneurial journey has been more about self-discovery than struggle.

Outside of ZERQASH, Pixie is a devoted wife and mother, closely involved in her family’s ventures and household. She values balance, integrity, and teamwork in both business and life.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: hustle like a struggler, build a strong network, and never wait for the perfect moment. She emphasizes the power of goodwill, consistency, and continuous learning—at any age. Pixie’s story is a blend of grace, grit, and vision, proving that when passion meets purpose, success follows in style.

Bhawna Vashishta, Founder – Matrivow

Bhawna Vashishta’s story is one of quiet strength, passion, and persistence. Starting her journey in the education industry back in 2006, she spent years building meaningful relationships and understanding people on a deeper level. That very understanding eventually laid the foundation for her own venture—Matrivow, a premium matchmaking service tailored exclusively for the elite. Her shift from education to personalized matchmaking was organic, driven by a desire to create something rooted in trust, quality, and exclusivity.

Over nearly two decades, Bhawna has balanced the demands of her professional aspirations with the responsibilities of home. Her consistency, even through challenges, has been her defining trait. Coming from a grounded army background, values like discipline and simplicity have always guided her. But it was the unwavering support of her husband that truly empowered her to chase her dreams. Like many women entrepreneurs, she faced her share of skepticism and the constant balancing act between personal and professional life—but she faced it all with quiet resilience.

Beyond her business, Bhawna finds joy in spending time with family and engaging in conversations that uplift and add value. She believes in growing not just professionally, but as a person. Her message to others is simple yet powerful—believe in your vision, stay passionate, and keep showing up. Success may take time, but with heart and perseverance, it always finds its way.

Sneha Tiwari – Digital Creator

Sneha Tiwari is a established HR professional who has spent the last decade building teams and transforming workplaces in a leading multinational company. Her journey, however, spans far beyond boardrooms. Raised across India in an Air Force family, Sneha’s adaptability and people skills were shaped by her diverse upbringing. With a degree from Delhi University and an MBA in HR, she built her career on empathy, resilience, and an unshakable work ethic.

But Sneha is more than her designation. While managing a demanding career, she also carved her space in the digital world, growing a community of over 100K followers through raw, empowering content. Her story isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. From battling stereotypes and burnout to embracing her many roles as a wife, daughter, leader, and creator, she’s faced it all with quiet strength.

Her greatest inspiration? Her mother—a living example of grace under pressure. Sneha continues to draw from that well of strength, using her voice to remind women that they don’t have to choose between ambition and authenticity. Whether she’s managing a team, dancing off stress, or creating content late into the night, Sneha leads with heart.

Her message is simple: Own every part of who you are. The world needs your story, your fire, your voice.

Jami Joshi, CEO – Trouve Social

Jami Joshi began her journey not by chance but by choice, turning down a secure job offer in the UK to pursue her entrepreneurial vision. While many might have opted for certainty, she followed purpose. Today, she leads Trouve Social, a global social media agency, and plays a key role in educational innovation as Assistant Director at Tapovan Group of Institutions.

Her path has been anything but easy. Juggling multiple roles, navigating male-dominated spaces, and facing the pressures of work-life balance have tested her resilience. Yet through late nights and difficult decisions, she pressed on, building a global team across India, the UK, and the US, and helping brands expand across borders while staying rooted in authentic storytelling.

Inspired by her grandfather’s legacy in education and community upliftment, Jami blends innovation with service. Her work reflects more than just business acumen. It reflects deep values and a desire to make a meaningful difference.

Travel has played a vital role in shaping her worldview, opening her to diverse cultures, ideas, and opportunities. She is equally passionate about mentorship, both guiding aspiring entrepreneurs and learning from seasoned leaders. Her commitment to giving back remains unwavering through involvement in community initiatives that align with her mission.

To Jami, success is not just measured in profits but in lives touched, minds inspired, and futures shaped. In a world that too often sets higher bars for women, Jami did not just rise to meet them. She built her own, redefining success through purpose, impact and leadership.

Heena Aftab, Educator

Heena Aftab is a woman of many hats: an accomplished educator, fashion model, anchor, and debut social media influencer. For over a decade, she has been shaping young minds as an Economics teacher at the higher secondary level with the Julien Day group of schools. At the same time, she has steadily carved a niche for herself in the fashion and entertainment industry, proving that passion and purpose can go hand in hand.

Her journey into modeling began unexpectedly with a pageant win that changed everything. It wasn’t just a crown—it was the start of a new chapter. The confidence and exposure it brought encouraged her to step into the world of runway shows, brand shoots, anchoring events, and now, the evolving space of digital influence. Balancing a full-time academic career with the glamorous, fast-paced fashion world hasn’t been easy, but for Heena, it has been incredibly fulfilling.

Coming from an orthodox background, the road was far from smooth. Choosing a path outside conventional norms came with its share of resistance, judgment, and personal battles. But she didn’t back down. Her story is one of quiet rebellion, of rising above expectations and letting her dreams take flight, one bold step at a time.

Heena finds inspiration in every woman who dares to break stereotypes and live on her own terms. Her life is a living example of resilience, showing others that even in the face of doubt and discouragement, belief in oneself can be the strongest force of change.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Heena is deeply committed to animal welfare. She actively cares for stray animals and has adopted several dogs over the years—one of whom rules her home as its beloved prince. Her sense of compassion extends beyond people to the voiceless, and she uses her growing online presence not only to celebrate fashion and lifestyle but also to champion meaningful causes.

To aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs, her advice is simple yet profound: Don’t wait for the right time. Start now. Even if no one believes in you—believe in yourself. Her story, still unfolding, is a powerful reminder that with courage, consistency, and heart, transformation is not just possible—it’s inevitable.

Meghna Tewari, Founder & Managing Partner – Bigsarees

Meghna Tewari is the Founder and Managing Partner of Bigsarees, a premium clothing brand dedicated to celebrating India’s rich textile heritage. With over 25 years of experience as a marketing professional, she made a significant shift from corporate life to pursue a more purpose-driven path. Her journey began as a passion project inspired by her love for Indian culture, sustainability, and women’s empowerment. What started as a modest initiative has now grown into a thriving brand that supports artisans across the country and builds a global community around handloom artistry.

Raised in a defence family, Meghna carries the values of discipline, resilience, and adaptability—qualities that have guided her through both corporate corridors and entrepreneurial challenges. Bigsarees is more than just a fashion label; it’s a revival movement for forgotten weaves and crafts. Through her digital presence, Meghna also shares stories of tradition, textiles, and the powerful women behind the looms, creating meaningful connections with audiences worldwide.

Her inspiration comes from the everyday women she encounters—homemakers, artisans, entrepreneurs, and dreamers. As a woman entrepreneur navigating a traditional industry, she has faced the complexities of balancing societal expectations with business goals. Yet, her emotional intelligence and strong sense of purpose continue to fuel her mission. Her joint family and their unwavering support have been her foundation.

Outside of her business, Meghna is a yoga enthusiast, cultural explorer, and mentor to young professionals and aspiring women entrepreneurs. She believes success lies not in numbers but in the impact—whether it’s a customer’s heartfelt message or an artisan receiving long-overdue recognition. For Meghna, every saree sold is a story shared, a tradition preserved, and a step forward in empowering communities—one weave at a time.

Sonal Arora, Founder – 6meal

Sonal Arora is the founder of 6meal, a wellness venture rooted in the belief that food is
powerful medicine. With a background in media and marketing, Sonal’s path took a
transformative turn when a close family member reversed diabetes through mindful eating.
Inspired by this personal experience and her own journey toward healthier living, she spent
over a year researching nutrition before launching 6meal.

6meal isn’t just a healthy meal delivery service—it’s a deeply personalised metabolic health
solution. Each plan is designed to support weight loss, hormonal balance, gut health, and
overall well-being through chef-crafted meals backed by nutrition science. Sonal’s mission is
to shift the public perception of food from mere calories to a form of self-care and preventive
healthcare.

As a woman and mother, Sonal has balanced the demands of entrepreneurship and
parenting with quiet determination. From managing her child’s school schedule to
overseeing kitchen audits and client relationships, her days are full and purposeful. She’s
driven by the resilience of the people 6meal serves—working professionals, new mothers,
and those fighting lifestyle diseases.

Beyond her business, Sonal is a committed learner, mindfulness advocate, and believer in
building both a positive team culture and a supportive home environment. She views
success not by titles or numbers but by the impact made—when a client says they feel better
or no longer need medication.

With a growing clientele that includes professionals and public figures alike, Sonal hopes
6meal becomes a wellness movement grounded in sustainability, healing, and purpose. Her
philosophy is simple: respect your body, and it will respect you back. Through 6meal, she’s
proving that real change starts one nourishing, personalised meal at a time.

Smriti Parasar, Phonics coach, Parent coach & Content creator

Smriti Parasar is a certified phonics coach, parent coach, and content creator who has made it her mission to support parents in raising confident, kind, and emotionally healthy children. Her journey began during the lockdown, when she started blogging about her pregnancy and early motherhood experiences. What started as a form of expression soon grew into a deep passion for helping others navigate the challenges of parenting. Her growing interest in child development and mental health led her to pursue professional certifications, transforming her personal journey into a purpose-driven career.

Before stepping into this new path, Smriti worked in the financial sector for six years. Transitioning from that structured environment to being a stay-at-home mother and then shifting careers was not easy. Yet, her belief in the value of emotional growth and mindful parenting gave her the courage to follow her passion. Smriti’s work stands out for its authenticity—she shares honest and relatable parenting content that resonates with countless mothers and fathers.

Her own experiences, especially as a mother, have been her biggest source of inspiration. Despite the challenges, Smriti has built a meaningful career that aligns with her values. She also finds joy in dancing, photography, music, and spending time with her daughter. Living in Mumbai, she feels blessed to be surrounded by a supportive community that has uplifted her journey.

For Smriti, success isn’t measured by numbers but by the impact she makes. Every message from a parent who feels seen or supported reaffirms her purpose. Through her work, she continues to champion the idea that with love, empathy, and the right guidance, we can raise not just good children, but strong, emotionally secure human beings.

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.

Gaurav Malvai, Founder – GSM Experiences

Gaurav Malvai is the founder of GSM Experiences, also known as Global Sound Management, a leading entertainment and experiences company that has grown into a dynamic, multi-vertical enterprise. His journey began behind the DJ console at the legendary Ghungroo nightclub at Maurya Sheraton in Delhi, mentored by DJ Sunny Sarid. What started as a passion for music and performance evolved into a full-fledged business providing cutting-edge sound and lighting solutions for private events and high-end weddings.

Over the years, GSM Experiences has expanded to include artist management, venue operations, event tech rentals, and a dedicated division for professional AV integration across bars, nightclubs, auditoriums, and homes. Despite the company’s growth, Gaurav continues to DJ at over 100 gigs a year, staying true to the craft that launched his journey. He remains the top choice for India’s leading industrialists and has had the privilege of performing at high-profile weddings, including those of Abhishek Bachchan & Aishwarya Rai and Deepika Padukone & Ranveer Singh.

He credits his journey to a deeply self-driven and purpose-led mindset. For Gaurav, each step has been a lesson, not a hurdle. His entrepreneurial vision also gave rise to Freq U, a boutique speaker brand focused on audio innovation and design. Outside of business, he is a committed student of Vedanta philosophy, a reader, and a passionate explorer of psychology—subjects he might have pursued academically had life taken a different turn.

In 1996, he borrowed ₹15,000 from his father and set out to shape his future independently. From funding his own education to building a company poised to go public, his path has been marked by relentless effort and clarity of purpose. He attributes much of his success to his wife, who put her medical career, as a Doctor, on hold to support their family and his dreams. Gaurav’s story is one of humility, integrity, and quiet determination—a reminder that consistency, belief, and gratitude can turn ambition into legacy.

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.

Prateek Tandon, Co-Founder & Director of Copper Events

Prateek Tandon, Co-Founder and Director of Copper Events, is a name synonymous with curating luxury weddings and immersive celebrations across India. Based in Mumbai, Copper Events is an all-inclusive event management company known for bringing a bespoke, hands-on approach to life’s most unforgettable moments.

Prateek’s love for weddings began early, fueled by a fascination with celebration and storytelling. His passion took shape when he reimagined Aamby Valley City not just as a real estate venture but as a luxury wedding destination. That bold vision helped transform it into one of India’s most sought-after venues, setting the tone for his unique approach to event design.

For Prateek, inspiration comes from everywhere: a piece of music, an unexpected moment while traveling, or simply a feeling that sparks creativity. His journey hasn’t been without its challenges from assembling the right teams to maintaining creative integrity under pressure but each step has added depth to his craft.

Beyond Copper Events, Prateek wears multiple creative hats. He is also Co-Founder and Director of Famous TV, a modern media platform, and Hundred Films, a boutique production house focused on emotionally resonant storytelling.

His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? Trust your instincts, act with intention, and don’t wait for perfect conditions. “There’s no straight line to success,” he says, “but the lessons along the way are what make the journey meaningful.”

For Prateek, every event is more than just a project it’s a personal story, a new memory, and a chance to push creative boundaries. Copper Events continues to evolve with that spirit, turning each celebration into a timeless experience.

Dr. Madhur Rathi, Consultant psychiatrist, Psychotherapist, Hypnotherapist

Dr. Madhur Rathi – MBBS MD PGDCH (Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis) is a consultant psychiatrist, psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and mental health content creator. His journey into mental health began after completing his MBBS and cracking the NEET PG, choosing Psychiatry as his specialization. Drawn to the complexities of human behavior and psychology, he found his true calling in understanding the mind, not just treating the body.

Inspired by Dr. Ajit Bhide, the former President of the Indian Psychiatric Society, Madhur realized early on that healing involves the whole person—mind and body. He’s passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. Over the years, he has encountered several challenges, one of the most persistent being the stigma around psychiatric care and medication. Despite advancements in treatment, many still hesitate to seek help due to outdated beliefs.

Outside of his profession, Madhur wears many hats—he’s a poet, a public speaker, and a corporate wellness trainer. His content on social media simplifies mental health for a wider audience, making these topics more accessible and less intimidating.

His message to others is clear: career growth isn’t a T20 match, it’s a test match. Stay on the crease, keep playing your game, and trust the process—consistency wins.

Madhur credits his journey to the support of his partner and family. He believes his success is not just about achieving one big dream, but a series of smaller milestones built through persistent effort. And as he says, he’s only just getting started.

As India proudly celebrates its Independence Day, we turn the spotlight on 10 extraordinary women whose achievements embody the spirit of resilience, innovation, and leadership. These inspiring individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made significant contributions to shaping the nation’s progress.

From entrepreneurs driving economic growth to changemakers creating social impact, these women exemplify the power of determination and the essence of Indian pride.

Vineeta Singh, CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics

Vineeta Singh, the founder and CEO of Sugar Cosmetics, is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, in India and beyond. Her journey began in Lucknow, where she excelled academically, earning gold medals in school and college. She later attended IIT Madras, where she discovered her passion for badminton, and IIM Ahmedabad, where she completed the Mumbai Marathon.

Despite receiving a lucrative offer in investment banking, Vineeta’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to co-found Fab-Bag, a beauty subscription service, before launching SUGAR Cosmetics in 2015 with her husband, Kaushik Mukherjee. SUGAR filled a gap in the Indian beauty market by offering vibrant, high-quality cosmetics for diverse skin tones at affordable prices, resonating with young Indian women.

Vineeta’s journey, marked by initial setbacks and lessons learned, reflects her commitment to innovation and empowerment. As an investor and judge on Shark Tank India, she continues to inspire others with her insightful feedback and championing of innovative ideas. Vineeta’s story

Shivani Singh, CEO – She Founders

Shivani Singh is a corporate leader with over 25 years of experience in setting up businesses for top multinational brands such as ESPN, Discovery Networks, Viacom, Disney and most recently as the CEO of a visual media platform, Shivani is also the co – founder of She Founders, a mentorship initiative for women-led startups. Her journey reflects resilience, growth, and a passion for breaking barriers in the corporate world.

Shivani’s path to leadership wasn’t linear. It required navigating challenges, moments of doubt, and constant learning. Her success was built on a foundation of hard work and an unwavering commitment to proving her potential in a competitive industry.

She draws inspiration not only from renowned leaders and thinkers but also from everyday heroes—people who push boundaries, overcome challenges, and inspire through their determination. Shivani believes that resilience lies in stories of individuals like first-time marathon runners who set goals, overcome challenges and keep pushing forward, sportspersons beating all odds, women from small towns shattering glass ceilings and breaking stereotypes.

The journey hasn’t been without struggles—building identity, fostering trust, growth, and connection were not easy to achieve. Yet, these challenges shaped her into the leader she is today. Beyond her professional life, Shivani is a passionate marathon runner, photographer, and explorer. Having completed multiple full marathons, she’s preparing to become an ultra-runner in 2025.

Her advice to aspiring professionals is rooted in consistency, vision, and self-belief. She emphasizes embracing challenges, staying true to your goals, and valuing meaningful connections. Above all, she encourages people to remain curious and multidimensional, saying, “You are not meant to fit into a single box. Explore, create, evolve, embrace different sides of your personality and be more than one thing.”

Shivani attributes her success to her ability to stay bold, curious, and refusing to be defined by just one thing. Her mantra? “Stay multidimensional, stay curious—the world needs your ideas and courage.”

Dr. Bijna Kotak Dasani, Investment Banker, Venture Capitalist & Entrepreneur

Dr. Bijna Kotak Dasani MBE FRSA is an accomplished Investment Banker turned Venture Capitalist (VC) and Entrepreneur. Her career is a testament to the power of pivoting with purpose, as she transitioned from a successful role in capital markets to investing in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and eventually establishing herself as an entrepreneur.

Her journey into venture capital was driven by a natural progression of her skills and a passion for supporting startups, particularly those led by women. While statistics reveal that less than three percent of VC funding goes to women-led startups, the World Economic Forum notes a growing shift, with the number of deals for women-founded teams increasing twice as fast as those for all-male teams over the last decade. Dr. Dasani is proud to contribute to this change, especially as initiatives like Startup India actively work to strengthen women entrepreneurship through policies, networks, and partnerships.

Dr. Dasani draws inspiration from colleagues, friends, and family who have supported her over the years. While every industry presents challenges influenced by the environment, she believes consistency is the key to overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. Dasani enjoys learning, traveling, and exploring spirituality. These interests provide her with balance and inspiration in her dynamic career.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is rooted in pragmatism: “Start with a measured approach and scale steadily. Focusing on value over valuation will lead to the right outcomes.”