Volume IX

On the occasion of Women’s Day, we honour ten exceptional Indian women leaders whose vision, courage, and relentless pursuit of excellence are shaping the nation’s present and future.

Across diverse fields and industries, these trailblazers have broken barriers, challenged conventions, and redefined what leadership truly means. Their journeys are not just stories of success, but powerful testaments to resilience, purpose, and the transformative impact of women who lead with conviction.

Masaba Gupta, Founder – House of Masaba

Masaba Gupta, renowned as one of India’s foremost fashion designers, has carved an inspiring path in the industry, overcoming challenges tied to her mixed heritage with unwavering determination. The daughter of veteran actor Neena Gupta, Masaba embarked on her fashion journey at just 19, debuting with a collection at Lakme Fashion Week. Armed with a degree in Apparel Manufacturing and Design, she initially explored the world of dance, earning accolades in college.

Masaba’s innate flair for fashion, coupled with a passionate attitude, led her to recognize her true calling. Balancing creativity, commercial appeal, and functionality, she founded ‘House of Masaba,’ her eponymous label that has garnered widespread acclaim. Breaking barriers, she became the first Indian designer to host a fashion show on Instagram, showcasing her innovative approach.

Despite initial challenges, Masaba’s persistence and creative prowess have seen her collaborate with renowned fashion brands.

Akanksha Chaturvedi Jain, Founder – Eduauraa

Akanksha Chaturvedi Jain is the Founder of Eduauraa, an ed tech platform focused on making quality education accessible to students across India. Through Eduauraa, she has worked toward building a learning ecosystem that reaches students at the grassroot level by combining digital learning, school digitisation, and community driven initiatives. Her vision has always been clear. Education should never be limited by affordability, background, or geography.

The idea for Eduauraa took shape while Akanksha was studying at Columbia University. She had initially gone there to study real estate, but during that time she began observing the growing education technology landscape. When she returned to India, she realized that many ed tech platforms were priced in a way that made them inaccessible for a large segment of students. Most models catered only to those who could afford premium learning tools. This gap led her to create Eduauraa, a platform designed with the belief that cost should never become a barrier to learning.

What started as a simple idea gradually evolved into a nationwide learning ecosystem. Eduauraa has now reached and empowered more than five lakh learners across India. One of the defining moments in the company’s journey came when Eduauraa was officially launched by the HRD Minister of India alongside the announcement of a strategic content partnership with ZEE5. Another significant initiative led by Akanksha was India’s largest education camp, where free education was delivered to more than one lakh students. These milestones strengthened Eduauraa’s mission of expanding access to quality learning.

Her work and leadership have been widely recognized. She has been featured by Forbes India, included in the Femina Fab 50 and Grazia Cool List, and appeared on the cover of ELLE India. She has also received the ZEE Education Excellence Award and the ET Inspiring Women Award. While these recognitions mark important achievements, Akanksha remains focused on the larger purpose of her work.

Her biggest inspiration has always been her parents, who supported her ambitions and encouraged her to maintain an open minded approach to life. Their belief in her helped her stay motivated even during challenging phases. Starting her company at the age of twenty two meant that she often faced skepticism. In many professional spaces, people underestimated her because of her age and because she was a young woman entrepreneur. Rather than letting these assumptions hold her back, she chose to let her work demonstrate her capability.

Outside of her professional life, Akanksha enjoys travelling, reading, and meeting new people. She describes herself as an extrovert who enjoys exploring different cultures and experiences around the world.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple. Passion and persistence are essential. Building a business requires constant dedication, belief in your vision, and the willingness to keep moving forward even when challenges appear.

For Akanksha, success is not defined by awards or titles. It lies in knowing that something she built is helping transform lives through education. And for her, the journey is only just beginning.

Niharika Dogra, Counselling Psychologist, Rehabilitation & Career Counsellor

Ms. Niharika Dogra is a Counselling Psychologist, Rehabilitation and Career Counsellor with over 16 years of experience across clinical, educational, corporate, and defense sectors. Through her work, she focuses on supporting individuals in navigating emotional challenges, career decisions, and personal growth while promoting greater awareness about mental well being.

Her interest in counselling began during her school years. She often observed that many students struggled with academic pressure and personal challenges but did not always have a safe space to express their feelings without judgment. This realization sparked her curiosity about human behavior, emotions, and the importance of psychological support. Over time, she discovered a natural inclination toward listening, understanding, and helping others work through their inner struggles. What began as empathy gradually developed into a sense of purpose, leading her to pursue counselling as a profession.

Over the past sixteen years, Ms. Dogra’s journey has been both professionally enriching and personally transformative. She has worked in diverse settings including clinical environments, educational institutions, corporate organizations, and defense establishments. Being the wife of an Air Force officer has also given her the unique opportunity to experience life across different Air Force Stations and interact closely with defense personnel and their families. In these environments, she has provided preventive counselling and emotional support, helping individuals cope with the psychological demands of military life.

Frequent relocations and exposure to new communities taught her adaptability and resilience, qualities that strongly influence her work today. Throughout her career, she has conducted workshops in schools and universities, delivered lectures including on All India Radio, and consistently contributed toward spreading awareness about mental health and emotional well being. These experiences have deepened her understanding of human resilience and strengthened her commitment to creating supportive spaces for people seeking guidance.

Her greatest inspiration is her mother, a cancer survivor whose courage and resilience demonstrated that healing is not only physical but also emotional and psychological. She also credits her husband for his unwavering encouragement and belief in her journey. Her children continue to motivate her daily, reminding her of the importance of balance, compassion, and patience in both personal and professional life.

Outside her professional responsibilities, Ms. Dogra enjoys spending quality time with family and friends. She also enjoys travelling, listening to music, and occasionally creating video content to spread awareness about mental well being. Continuous learning remains an important part of her life as she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and perspective.

Her message to aspiring professionals is to begin with purpose rather than pressure. She encourages individuals to build competence before chasing visibility, remain patient with their growth, and uphold ethical standards in their work. Taking care of one’s own mental health while building a career, she believes, is equally important.

For Ms. Niharika Dogra, success is not defined by titles or milestones. Instead, it lies in the lives she has been able to support, the stigma around mental health she has helped reduce, and the safe spaces she has created for people to express themselves without fear. She believes that empathy, integrity, and resilience are the true foundations of lasting success, and her journey continues to evolve with that belief.

Deepal Parekh, Interior designer & Founder – DPDS – Deepal Parekh Design Studio

Deepal Parekh is an interior designer and the founder of DPDS – Deepal Parekh Design Studio. With a career spanning more than two decades, she has built a reputation for creating thoughtful and timeless spaces that balance aesthetics with functionality. Her design philosophy centers on the belief that a home should reflect the personality, lifestyle, and story of the people who live in it.

Design and art have always been an intrinsic part of her life. From a young age, she found herself naturally drawn to colours, materials, and the way environments influence emotions and experiences. What began as a personal passion gradually evolved into a professional calling. Over time, she realized that interior design is not simply about beautifying spaces. It is about creating environments that feel meaningful, personal, and deeply connected to those who inhabit them.

Throughout her journey in interior design, Deepal has developed a philosophy rooted in simplicity and intention. She believes that every element within a space should have purpose and that thoughtful restraint often creates the most powerful impact. Her approach begins with understanding the client’s lifestyle, sensibilities, and vision. Whether designing residential homes or boutique commercial spaces, her goal is always to create interiors that feel timeless, layered, and emotionally connected to their users.

Her inspiration often comes from everyday experiences. Travel, art, architecture, and craftsmanship all influence her design sensibility. She is particularly drawn to natural materials, textures, and spaces that evoke warmth and authenticity.

Like many women in entrepreneurial fields, her journey has not been without challenges. Establishing credibility in a competitive industry while balancing professional ambition with personal responsibilities required resilience, especially during the early years of building her studio. These experiences ultimately strengthened her confidence and helped shape the clarity and conviction she brings to her work today.

Beyond her professional life, Deepal enjoys travelling and exploring art and different cultures, which continuously inspire her creative perspective. She also has a deep love for cooking, which she views as another form of creative expression. Much like interior design, cooking allows her to experiment with flavours, textures, and presentation while bringing people together around shared experiences.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple but meaningful. Follow your passion with patience and persistence. Success is rarely immediate. It is built over time through dedication, continuous learning, and staying authentic to your vision.

For Deepal Parekh, success is not measured only through recognition or accolades. It lies in the impact of the spaces she creates and the relationships she builds with her clients along the way. Each project represents an opportunity to learn, evolve, and craft something meaningful. The most rewarding moment, she believes, is seeing a space come alive and knowing that it truly resonates with the people who inhabit it.

Shivani Jain, Founder – Tisharth by Shivani

Shivani Jain is a fashion designer whose journey reflects passion, persistence, and a deep understanding of design aesthetics. Her work focuses on creating clothing that allows women to feel confident, comfortable, and expressive through what they wear.

From a young age, Shivani was naturally drawn to garments and design. She had a keen eye for aesthetics and enjoyed experimenting with styles and silhouettes. This passion led her to start her own label at the age of just nineteen. Beginning a business at such a young age came with its own challenges, but it also gave her the opportunity to grow, learn, and evolve as a designer.

After working on her label for several years, Shivani took a sabbatical and began assisting her husband in his buying agency. While the experience helped her understand the business side of the fashion industry, her true passion always remained in design. The desire to create and express herself through fashion eventually brought her back to the field she loved the most.

In 2016, she launched her brand Tisharth by Shivani, a western wear label designed for women who appreciate stylish, well crafted clothing. Through this label, she focuses on creating designer pieces that remain accessible and affordable. One of the challenges she has faced in her journey is establishing the brand as one that offers designer quality without designer level pricing. Balancing quality, creativity, and affordability requires careful planning and dedication, but it remains central to her brand philosophy.

For Shivani, inspiration can come from many different sources. Rather than following a single role model, she finds inspiration in everyday life, creativity, and most importantly, in the desire to help women feel confident about themselves. Her ultimate goal is to design clothing that makes women feel good about who they are.

Beyond her work as a designer, Shivani enjoys spending time dancing, travelling, and reading. She also loves karaoke evenings filled with music, laughter, and friends. These moments allow her to relax, recharge, and stay creatively inspired.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals is simple yet powerful: keep working towards your goal. Success may not come instantly, but dedication and consistent effort eventually lead you there. Believing in your vision and continuing to move forward, even when challenges arise, is what makes the difference.

Looking back at her journey, Shivani believes that success comes when you put your heart and soul into what you do. One of her dreams was to see her work reach international runways, and she proudly achieved that milestone. For her, that accomplishment stands as a reminder that when passion and hard work come together, dreams can truly turn into reality.

Manat Lamba, Co founder – Yellow Blossom

Manat Lamba is the Co founder of Yellow Blossom, a platform that has become known for giving homegrown brands an opportunity to showcase their work and connect with customers who appreciate unique, independent labels. What began almost by chance has now grown into a strong platform that has supported more than 400 brands over the past decade.

Her entrepreneurial journey began after spending four years working at Ernst and Young. While she gained valuable corporate experience there, she eventually felt the pull to build something of her own. In April 2015, she launched her clothing brand Maisara, driven by a passion for design and quality. Around the same time, her partner was exploring the idea of starting an events business. A casual conversation between them led to the idea of hosting an event to launch their respective ventures. That single event became the starting point of Yellow Blossom, which was formally established in September 2015. Looking back, Manat often describes the moment as one of those unexpected turns in life that end up shaping everything that follows.

Over the years, her journey has been exciting, creative, and constantly evolving. Market conditions, consumer preferences, and industry trends continue to change, and adapting to those shifts has been an essential part of her entrepreneurial experience. Through both Maisara and Yellow Blossom, she has always prioritized quality above all else. While maintaining high standards often brings its own challenges, she believes that quality ultimately builds long term trust and loyalty.

For the past three years, she temporarily paused the operations of Maisara due to the growing saturation in the clothing market. However, the overwhelming number of people encouraging her to revive the brand has reaffirmed her belief that quality and authenticity still matter. Today, the revival of Maisara is already in progress. At the same time, Yellow Blossom continues to grow steadily, with plans underway to expand into cities beyond Delhi.

Rather than pointing to a single individual as inspiration, Manat believes her motivation comes from an inner desire to build something meaningful and lasting. Her goal has always been to create a brand that people recognize, trust, and connect with. She hopes that years from now she will be able to look back with pride at what she has built and perhaps even pass that legacy forward to her daughter.

As a woman in business, she acknowledges that women are sometimes still taken less seriously in professional spaces. However, she also believes women bring a remarkable strength to the table, particularly their ability to manage multiple roles at once. Being a business owner while also balancing responsibilities as a daughter, sister, and mother requires resilience and adaptability, qualities she believes deserve greater recognition.

Outside of work, Manat has recently begun experimenting with content creation, something she finds both enjoyable and refreshing. However, the most important part of her life is her seven year old daughter, who she describes as the center of her universe. Once her workday ends, her time is devoted entirely to being a mother, which she considers the most fulfilling role she plays.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple but honest. Starting something new can feel overwhelming and uncertain, but perseverance, resilience, and belief in your vision can carry you through the difficult phases. Entrepreneurship requires the ability to face failures, learn from them, and stay grounded during moments of success.

For Manat, the greatest strength behind her journey has been the support system around her. The encouragement of family, friends, and loved ones has played a significant role in helping her navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. She believes that while business success requires hard work and determination, having people who believe in you can make all the difference.

Pragati Sanjay Baghel, CEO & Founder – Active Tribe

Pragati Sanjay Baghel is the CEO and Founder of Active Tribe, India’s first intimate hygiene brand created specifically for men who lead high-sweat, active lifestyles. Her community includes weight lifters, marathoners, runners, cyclists, bikers, and hikers—men who push their physical limits yet often stay silent about recurring hygiene concerns. Active Tribe was built to turn that silence into awareness, understanding, and bold conversations that India has avoided for too long.

Interestingly, the idea did not begin in intimate hygiene. The company initially launched as a men’s makeup brand, but while building that audience Pragati kept receiving messages asking for solutions to private-area issues. Concerns like balanitis, candidiasis, ringworms, itching, and sweat-induced infections kept surfacing. What struck her was not just the frequency but how normalized the suffering was simply because men felt they “should not talk about it.”

After studying the Indian market and global alternatives, she realized the category was untapped not because the need didn’t exist, but because the subject remained taboo. Looking deeper at the lifestyles of highly active men, she understood how sweat, friction, and humidity were fueling recurring infections. That insight defined Active Tribe’s vision: “If no one wants to solve it because it’s taboo, that’s exactly where innovation belongs.”

The journey has been demanding and deeply transformative. The company was registered in March 2025, followed by months of formulation research. Custom development was costly, so Pragati immersed herself in ingredient science—studying antifungal actives, pH balance, and sweat biology. She collaborated with a cosmetic scientist and a lab in Bangalore to build effective formulations before moving into manufacturing, packaging, and brand identity. “When you build from scratch,” she says, “you don’t just create a brand—you create a new version of yourself.”

As a woman leading a men’s intimate hygiene brand, skepticism was inevitable. Some questioned why a woman would enter this category. Her answer is clear: health is not gendered. If men can build menstrual hygiene brands without interrogation, women should be equally free to build for men. Coming from a background where women are still expected to stay in “safe lanes,” Pragati’s journey is seen as bold—but she believes silence overstayed its welcome.

Outside business, Pragati is disciplined about fitness and trains daily. She is a runner, weightlifter, and a passionate satvic cook who prepares mindful, oil-free, sugar-free meals in clay pots. Fitness built her body, satvic food built her mind, and entrepreneurship, she says, has built her soul.

Her message to entrepreneurs is simple: start before you feel ready, build before people understand, and keep going long after the applause ends. Choose problems others hesitate to touch. Active Tribe is more than a product line—it is a necessary conversation finally being voiced. And for Pragati, this is only the beginning of a much larger journey.

Dhwani Shah, Life & Mindset Coach, Clinical Hypnotherapist

Dhwani Shah is a Criminal Lawyer turned Life and Mindset Coach, Clinical Hypnotherapist, TEDx Speaker, and co founder of RudraKavya and Vidhyutaraa. Her work today centers on transformation, helping individuals break limiting patterns, heal emotional wounds, and rise with clarity and confidence. At RudraKavya, which she describes as poetries of transformation, the philosophy is simple yet powerful. Break the patterns, heal the wounds, and rise with clarity. She believes clarity only comes after a person feels safe enough to confront their truth. At Vidhyutaraa, meaning the lightning star, she leads strategy by building brands that are driven not only by content but by conviction. For her, power matters, but authenticity is unstoppable.

Her journey began in the field of law, where she trained to argue and defend cases in courtrooms. Over time, she realized that the toughest battles people face are not legal ones but internal ones. Self doubt, fear, and limiting beliefs often become the real obstacles in a person’s life. This realization changed her path. Instead of leaving law behind, she redefined it. She shifted her courtroom to the human mind, where she now challenges limiting beliefs, questions fear, and supports individuals in reclaiming their strength.

Dhwani describes her journey as powerful rather than perfect. She has experienced setbacks, emotional lows, and failures that tested her resolve. Yet she believes progress is not always linear. Even when life moves three steps forward and two steps back, it is still movement. From courtroom arguments to the TEDx stage, each phase of her life has shaped her voice and purpose. She now leads with empathy, speaks with clarity, and believes vulnerability can be a source of strength rather than weakness.

Her inspiration comes from every version of herself that refused to give up. As a woman, she has faced moments where softness was mistaken for weakness and where confidence was seen as intimidating. Instead of shrinking, she chose to embrace both strength and gentleness together.

Beyond her profession, Dhwani enjoys travel, nature, adventure, and movement. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer and a trained skier, she finds joy in both discipline and freedom. She also organizes community gatherings that create safe spaces for connection and growth.

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple. Choose collaboration over competition. The sky is vast enough for everyone to rise. For Dhwani, success is not defined by perfection. It is defined by consistency, resilience, and the courage to remain authentic.

Advocate Monica Dochania, Advocate, Independent litigator, Solicitor

Advocate Monica Dochania is a practicing advocate, independent litigator, solicitor, and legal advisor based in New Delhi. Her journey into law was not linear but deeply intentional. Before entering the legal profession, she worked across diverse sectors including immigration services, the hotel industry, and international delegations and exhibitions. In her early twenties, while working in sales, marketing, and business development within corporate environments, she developed a growing interest in agreements, contracts, and legal frameworks. That curiosity gradually turned into conviction, and in 2015 she decided to appear for the law entrance examination conducted by the University of Delhi. She cleared the exam and began pursuing her LL.B. from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.

Academically, her journey reflects versatility and determination. She completed her B.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Delhi, followed by a postgraduate degree in Nanotechnology from Maitreyi College. She also pursued a course in website and web development before eventually transitioning into law. After graduating in 2018, she enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi, cleared the All India Bar Examination in 2019, and became eligible for a permanent license from the Bar Council of India. Since then, she has been practicing before District Courts across India and the Delhi High Court. Her areas of expertise include civil and criminal matters, commercial and corporate law, immigration law, property disputes, consumer law, labour law, and family law. She also serves as a Legal Advisor to the United Human Rights and Social Justice Council, contributing to the protection of constitutional rights and social justice.

For Monica, life itself is her greatest teacher and inspiration. She believes resilience, patience, and self-awareness shape professional growth. As an independent woman in a male-dominated environment, she acknowledges facing societal skepticism and resistance, yet she remained committed to building her identity from the ground up.

Beyond litigation, she mentors students in career counselling, engages in social initiatives, writes journals and legal articles, and even participates in fashion ramp walks as a creative pursuit. Her message is clear. Success requires constant effort, self-belief, and determination. Every setback is part of growth, and self-motivation remains the true foundation of achievement.

Sanya Devina Madan, Product Designer & Founder – Prettylilclayz

Sanya Devina Madan is a Product Designer, author of the poetry collection Life Was the Poet, She Just Listened, a budding counselor, and a creative entrepreneur. She is also the founder of prettylilclayz, a handcrafted jewellery brand where emotions are transformed into wearable stories. Across every role she holds, her work is rooted in meaning. She does not simply create products or words. She creates spaces for feeling, reflection, and healing.

Her journey began with observation. From a young age, she was deeply attuned to emotions, to silences, and to the untold stories people carried behind their smiles. Writing became her first refuge, long before it became a published book. Counseling grew naturally from lived experience and from understanding what it means to search for safety and understanding. Design and handcrafted jewellery evolved into her language of expression, blending art with emotion in tangible form.

Her path has not been without storms. Growing up with dyslexia and navigating intense mental battles shaped her resilience early in life. Adolescence tested her confidence and sense of security. Experiences of harassment at a young age shook her foundation temporarily, but she refused to allow pain to define her identity. Instead, she chose healing over hiding and growth over bitterness. What once felt isolating became empathy. What once felt frightening became fierce self-awareness. That conscious decision to transform adversity into purpose reshaped her life.

Her inspiration comes first from the women in her family, especially her mother, whose quiet strength and steady resilience modeled what grace under pressure looks like. Her father provided unwavering safety and reassurance, allowing her to grow without shrinking. Supportive friendships and family built a foundation of security that empowered her to rise with composure and clarity.

Beyond her professional titles, she is a dancer at heart. Movement feels like reclaiming freedom. She believes jewellery can hold memory, art can heal, and softness can be powerful.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple. Your struggles are structure, not stains. Begin before you feel ready. Protect your peace. Build your dream with intention. Success, for her, is measured not by accolades but by healing, courage, and impact. And she believes her journey is only beginning.

On the occasion of Women’s Day, we honour ten exceptional Indian women leaders whose vision, courage, and relentless pursuit of excellence are shaping the nation’s present and future.

Across diverse fields and industries, these trailblazers have broken barriers, challenged conventions, and redefined what leadership truly means. Their journeys are not just stories of success, but powerful testaments to resilience, purpose, and the transformative impact of women who lead with conviction.

Masaba Gupta, Founder – House of Masaba

Masaba Gupta, renowned as one of India’s foremost fashion designers, has carved an inspiring path in the industry, overcoming challenges tied to her mixed heritage with unwavering determination. The daughter of veteran actor Neena Gupta, Masaba embarked on her fashion journey at just 19, debuting with a collection at Lakme Fashion Week. Armed with a degree in Apparel Manufacturing and Design, she initially explored the world of dance, earning accolades in college.

Masaba’s innate flair for fashion, coupled with a passionate attitude, led her to recognize her true calling. Balancing creativity, commercial appeal, and functionality, she founded ‘House of Masaba,’ her eponymous label that has garnered widespread acclaim. Breaking barriers, she became the first Indian designer to host a fashion show on Instagram, showcasing her innovative approach.

Despite initial challenges, Masaba’s persistence and creative prowess have seen her collaborate with renowned fashion brands. From her inaugural collection at 19 to the establishment of ‘House of Masaba,’ her journey underscores the profound impact of persistence on the road to success.

Mishael Martina Cardoza, Filmmaker

Mishael Martina Cardoza is a filmmaker currently working on her independent short film Maternity Break, a deeply personal project that explores the emotional landscape of motherhood and career identity. Her journey into filmmaking has been shaped by persistence, pauses, and a deep commitment to honest storytelling.

She began her career as an intern Assistant Director in commercials, learning the craft from the ground up on busy production sets. Long hours, constant observation, and proving herself repeatedly became part of her training. The path was not glamorous, but storytelling always felt like home. Her dream of becoming a director began at the age of eight. Sitting in a director’s chair once felt impossible, yet she held onto that vision and started as an intern Assistant Director, gradually building experience across commercial productions.

Then came motherhood.

Mishael consciously chose to take a three year pause from professional filmmaking to be fully present for her child. During this time, she stepped into a new creative space as a mom content creator while also exploring freelance creative work. While motherhood brought immense fulfillment, there was also a quiet void within her. She missed directing. She missed telling layered human stories.

That inner conflict led to the creation of Maternity Break, a short film that examines the emotional week before a mother’s maternity leave ends. The story does not focus on the decision itself but on the invisible negotiation that happens internally. The film explores the anxiety, guilt, hope, financial concerns, societal pressure, and the emotional pull between career identity and motherhood. Cinema often portrays motherhood through gentle montages and soft music, but rarely captures the emotional complexity of postpartum transitions. Maternity Break attempts to bring that hidden reality to the screen. It is a film about the journey within, rather than the final choice.

Her greatest inspiration is her mother, whom she describes as the person who absorbed society’s criticism so that her daughter could continue dreaming freely. Growing up, she watched her mother stand firm against doubts and expectations placed on women who choose unconventional paths. That quiet strength shaped her outlook on life and work.

As a woman in the film industry, especially now as a mother, the challenges have been layered. Production spaces are demanding, and structural support for new mothers remains limited. Even when industries celebrate progress for women, the reality for mothers behind the camera is still evolving. When established actors like Deepika Padukone openly negotiate call times to balance motherhood and work, it highlights how complex this balance can be even at the highest levels. For filmmakers without visibility or backing, the challenge becomes even greater.

Mishael firmly believes that passion does not disappear after marriage or motherhood. A creative calling does not shrink simply because life expands.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple yet powerful. Dreams do not expire because life changes. Every comeback has its own timing, and it should never be measured against someone else’s timeline.

For Mishael, Maternity Break is more than just a short film. It is a conversation. She is crowdfunding the project so it can remain honest and independent, giving space to the emotional reality of motherhood that is often left unseen.

Her journey is still unfolding. But one truth remains unchanged. The girl who dreamed of becoming a director at eight years old never stopped believing she would return to that chair.

Dr. Sarah Zaidi, IVF specialist and gynecologist

Dr. Sarah Zaidi is an IVF specialist and gynecologist with nearly a decade of experience dedicated to helping couples achieve the dream of parenthood. With a strong academic background in gynecology and years of clinical practice, she chose to specialize in fertility care after realizing how many women silently struggle with infertility. While many women can conceive naturally, there are countless others who face emotional, social, and financial barriers that make the journey to motherhood extremely difficult.

This realization shaped Dr. Zaidi’s purpose. For her, fertility treatment is not just a medical service but a deeply human journey. Being part of a couple’s path to parenthood, supporting women who have been trying for years, and witnessing the moment when hope turns into reality gives her a profound sense of gratitude. She considers it a privilege to support women ranging from their early twenties to even their fifties who are seeking the chance to become mothers.

Dr. Zaidi is currently associated with Indira IVF, one of India’s largest fertility networks. She serves as the Executive Director at Indira IVF Dadar and also holds the role of Cluster Business Head for Mumbai and Maharashtra. Over the years, the organization has contributed to nearly 1,80,000 successful pregnancies across India, and Dr. Zaidi takes immense pride in being part of a team that works tirelessly to support childless couples and bring happiness into their lives.

Her greatest inspiration comes from her parents, particularly her father. A senior professional himself, he believed deeply in serving society with honesty and kindness. Through his example, Dr. Zaidi learned that true success lies in helping people without expecting anything in return. His belief in giving back to society continues to guide her work and her values.

Dr. Zaidi believes that the foundation of any successful career rests on four essential pillars: clarity of thought, hard work, dedication, and discipline. She encourages young professionals to be clear about their goals and purpose in life, because clarity allows individuals to plan their path forward. However, she emphasizes that there is no substitute for consistent effort and commitment.

Reflecting on her journey, she also believes that values are shaped at home. Children learn more from what they observe than from what they are told. Watching her parents live with discipline, compassion, and integrity shaped her own approach to life and work.

For Dr. Sarah Zaidi, medicine is not just a profession. It is a lifelong commitment to helping others, restoring hope, and being part of one of the most meaningful moments in a family’s life.

Komal Parnami, Energy healer, manifestation coach & tarot consultant

Komal Parnami is an energy healer, manifestation coach, and tarot consultant who works with individuals seeking clarity, healing, and spiritual guidance. Her work focuses on helping people understand their emotional and energetic patterns so they can move forward in life with greater confidence, awareness, and positivity. Through consultations and spiritual practices, she guides people toward personal growth and a deeper connection with themselves.

Her interest in the spiritual and occult world began at a very young age. As a school student, she was fascinated by horoscopes and would regularly read the daily predictions published in newspapers. What started as curiosity slowly developed into a deeper attraction toward the mystical sciences. During her college years, an important turning point came when her uncle recognized her natural inclination toward the subject. He encouraged her to explore occult sciences more seriously and told her that she had the potential to grow in this field.

Motivated by that encouragement, Komal began formally learning and training in spiritual practices. She found a mentor who guided her through the process of understanding energy healing, manifestation practices, and tarot reading. Through continuous learning and regular practice, she gradually developed the confidence and skills required to guide others. Over time, what started as a personal interest evolved into her professional calling.

For Komal, the journey has been deeply meaningful. She believes that anyone who becomes a healer must first experience life’s own challenges, because personal struggles help develop empathy and understanding for the pain others carry. These experiences allow her to connect more deeply with the people who come to her for consultations. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is hearing from clients who share how her guidance helped them navigate difficult situations or find peace within themselves.

Her greatest inspiration comes from her parents and from individuals like Ratan Tata, whose life reflects generosity, humility, and service to society. Their values have influenced her outlook toward life and work. Rather than seeing situations as difficulties, she prefers to view them as opportunities for learning and growth, believing that every challenge carries a hidden blessing.

Beyond her professional life, Komal is also a homemaker who values spending time with her child and family. These moments keep her grounded and balanced.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple yet meaningful. Follow what you truly love. When passion drives your work, discipline and dedication follow naturally.

At the core of her philosophy is a deep belief in the universe and its guiding energy, which she trusts to lead every journey toward its rightful path.

Preeti Jatia, Founder & Lead Designer – Fayonkids

Preeti Jatia is the Founder and Lead Designer of Fayonkids, a luxury children’s wear brand grounded in culture, craftsmanship, and conscious design. Through Fayonkids, she has built a brand that thoughtfully blends tradition with modern sensibility, creating clothing that celebrates both beauty and comfort for children.

Her entrepreneurial journey was shaped by instinct and clarity of purpose. She recognized a gap in the children’s wear market where style often overshadowed comfort and practicality. Instead of compromising, she chose to integrate both elements seamlessly. Fayonkids emerged from her vision to design pieces that feel elegant yet effortless, honoring the needs of children while resonating with mindful parents who value quality and detail.

Building Fayonkids has been a journey of steady growth and refinement. Preeti approached it with patience, passion, and a strong belief in soulful design. Each collection reflects her dedication to thoughtful craftsmanship and cultural depth. Over time, the brand has expanded not only in reach but in creative maturity, remaining aligned with its original philosophy while evolving in design language and expression.

Her inspiration comes from inner resilience and from women who rise quietly with grace and strength. As a woman entrepreneur, she has encountered moments of being underestimated, managing multiple responsibilities, and proving that creative leadership requires discipline and strategic thinking. Rather than discouraging her, these experiences strengthened her conviction and sharpened her focus.

Outside her professional sphere, Preeti is deeply drawn to wellness, spirituality, design philosophy, and creative storytelling. She views creativity as an everyday practice, not just a profession. For her, curating beauty in daily life is an extension of the same mindset that shapes her brand.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear. Trust your voice. Stay consistent and disciplined. Be willing to evolve without losing your essence. Do not dilute your originality to meet expectations.

For Preeti, success is not a singular achievement. It is a continuous process of growth, self-awareness, and authenticity. Each stage of the journey adds depth, and that ongoing evolution is what she values most.

Rashmi Bindra, Textile & fashion designer

Rashmi Bindra is a textile and fashion designer with over four decades of creative experience. Alongside designing, she curated and organised bridal trousseau exhibitions and wedding events, bringing together designers, jewellers, and wedding planners under one cohesive vision.

Her love for design began at a very tender age. She was always fascinated by cuts, colors, and silhouettes. As a child, she would imagine dresses and discuss them with her mother, who would stitch outfits based on her ideas. Watching her mother work with fabrics, yarns, and weaves deeply shaped her understanding of textiles and craftsmanship. That early exposure built the foundation of her creative instinct.

During her school years, she frequently won painting competitions, often inspired by nature. That artistic inclination gradually translated into a passion for textiles from different regions of India. While pursuing commerce in college, she simultaneously continued her interest in design and later completed a textile designing course from South Delhi Polytechnic.

Studying in Delhi exposed her to renowned stores and elevated her aspirations. She free lanced for 11 years for Jagdish Stores in Karol Bagh, designing and hand painting towels, bed linen, and bedspreads. Over time, she collaborated with designing houses across Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Chandigarh, expanding her experience across diverse markets.

Hailing from Chandigarh , she began creating bridal trousseaus for brides to be. After marrying an army officer, she had the opportunity to travel extensively across India. Each posting became a learning ground. She conducted textile classes, trained students, and helped many shape their careers. Simultaneously, she curated bridal exhibitions while always preserving her own creative identity by showcasing her designs.

In 2017, her life took a profound turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. That phase could have broken her spirit, but instead, it redirected her energy. While medical treatment supported her physically, art became her emotional healing. During that period, she created pieces that gradually evolved into Taraash, a label she built along with her daughter Anushca Bindra. Taraash now dresses brides, bridesmaids, and elders or the young ones of the families, and has had the honour of customising beautiful sarees for eminent personalities such as Dr. Jai Madaan. The journey reflects over 40 years of dedication, thousands of customising ,allowing her to connect with multiple generations , earn their trust & watch them Smile on holding their dream.

Beyond fashion, Rashmi is actively involved with Sahayata Charitable Society, an NGO dedicated to supporting cancer patients and spreading awareness that cancer is curable. Having walked that path herself, she believes strongly in inner strength and the power to heal.

Anushca Bindra ,her daughter ,the Marketing head , an MBA from ISB, her message to aspiring entrepreneurs,is practical and grounded. Business demands perseverance in real world terms, not just passion. It requires solutions, adaptability, and the ability to make things work even when they do not fall into place easily. Studying the market is essential. While creating from personal strength is important, the product must also meet the needs of the audience. An amazing idea without market alignment will struggle to sustain.

She believes the world is constantly evolving, so one must remain nimble and open to feedback. Collaboration builds something holistic, yet authentic. Growth is never a straight line. There will always be ups and downs, even in an upward journey.

For Rashmi Bindra, age is never a limitation. At 60, she firmly believes there is still much to learn, much to create, and much to give.

Dr. Vishrutha K C, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Vishrutha K C is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist based in Bangalore with over six years of clinical experience in women’s healthcare. Her work focuses on providing comprehensive medical support for women at every stage of life, from adolescence and reproductive health to pregnancy, fertility care, and menopause management.

Throughout her practice, she has been committed to offering patient centred care that combines medical expertise with empathy and clear communication. She believes that women’s health requires not only accurate diagnosis and treatment but also education and awareness so that women can make informed decisions about their bodies and well being.

Her areas of expertise include the management of PCOS and hormonal health, fertility guidance and preconception counselling, antenatal and postnatal care, menstrual disorder management, menopause care, and cosmetic gynaecology. By addressing a wide spectrum of women’s health concerns, she aims to support patients through both preventive care and treatment.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Vishrutha also uses social media as a platform to create a credible and respectful space dedicated to women’s health education. Through this initiative, she regularly addresses common myths and misconceptions surrounding reproductive health, shares evidence based medical guidance, and discusses important health topics that are often overlooked or misunderstood.

She also encourages open conversations by answering questions from women who seek reliable and trustworthy information about their health. Her goal is to make medical knowledge more accessible and help women feel empowered when it comes to understanding their bodies.

By combining clinical expertise with patient education, Dr. Vishrutha K C continues to contribute toward building greater awareness, trust, and confidence in women’s healthcare.

Ishav Mehta Lamba, Pregnancy and Postpartum Exercise Specialist

Ishav Mehta Lamba is a Pregnancy and Postpartum Exercise Specialist dedicated to changing how women in India approach recovery after childbirth. Her work focuses on structural healing, pelvic health, core rehabilitation, and helping mothers rebuild physical strength and emotional confidence. For Ishav, postpartum recovery is not about “bouncing back” but about healing the body properly and restoring a woman’s sense of strength and self respect.

Her journey into this field began with a personal experience. After her first pregnancy nine years ago, she noticed a major gap in how postpartum recovery was understood. Women were often told that back pain, weakness, abdominal separation, and urinary leakage were simply normal after childbirth. This never felt right to her. Instead of accepting it, she decided to educate herself and work toward changing the narrative.

Although she holds an Honours degree in Business Management, Ishav chose purpose over predictability. She pursued extensive evidence based training and became certified through ACE Fitness. She also trained under globally respected experts including Antony Lo, Sarah Duvall, Mamastefit, Kayla Lee, and Guradesh Maan, developing expertise in pelvic health, biomechanics, and corrective exercise.

Over the years, she has worked with more than 1,600 mothers across India and built an online community of over 259,000 women. However, for Ishav the real achievement is the cultural shift she is seeing. More women are now asking questions about diastasis recti, pelvic floor rehabilitation, and structured postpartum recovery.

Her parents remain her greatest inspiration. Losing them was one of the most difficult phases of her life, but it strengthened her resilience. As a woman in the fitness industry, she has faced challenges including cultural discomfort around discussing pelvic health, pressure on mothers to “bounce back,” and balancing her work with raising two children. Being naturally introverted also made visibility difficult, but purpose pushed her forward.

Her message to women is clear: postpartum is not your fate. Weakness, pain, and disconnection from your body are not permanent. With the right guidance, healing and strength are possible.

Ishav’s vision is to build a generation of mothers who are structurally strong, emotionally aware, financially independent, and unapologetic about prioritizing their health. Because when a mother becomes strong, the entire family ecosystem changes.

Dr. Sakshi Budhiraja, Prosthodontist and Oral Implantologist

Dr. Sakshi Budhiraja is a Prosthodontist and Oral Implantologist, and the founder of “Smiles by Dr. Sakshi,” a well established dental practice located in Vashi, Sector 17, Navi Mumbai. Known for her precision, dedication, and patient centric approach, she has built a strong reputation in advanced prosthodontics and implant dentistry.

From a young age, Dr. Sakshi was determined to become a doctor. Once she entered the field of dentistry, she realised she had found her true calling. As a first generation dentist from a conservative middle class family in Aurangabad, her journey was far from easy. With limited resources and minimal guidance, she funded her graduation and post graduation through education loans. During her post graduation years, she worked as an associate dentist at multiple clinics while managing her studies, rarely taking a day off and travelling wherever opportunities arose. She consistently supported herself financially, saving with the vision of one day building her own clinic.

In January 2021, she left her hometown and moved to Mumbai with a non clinical job to manage expenses. Within just nine months, she opened her own private practice through her own savings and determination. What began as a single chair, 250 square foot clinic has, within five years, grown into a multichair multispeciality advanced dental and implant centre.

Throughout her journey, she faced doubts and societal biases that many women encounter. Rather than seeking validation, she chose to prove her capabilities through action. Over time, she realised that true confidence comes from within. Her journey itself became her greatest source of inspiration.

Beyond dentistry, Dr. Sakshi enjoys dancing, cooking, reading, and exploring spirituality. She believes in nurturing both professional excellence and personal growth.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple yet powerful. Keep the fire alive. Do not stop, even when the path feels uncertain. Success may be just one more step away. Her personal mantra reflects her mindset: “I Can; I Will; End of story.”

Dr. Sonam Solanki, Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine Specialist

Dr. Sonam Solanki is a Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine Specialist who leads INICIO Chest Clinic, a center focused on diagnosing and treating respiratory and sleep related disorders. Through her work, she manages conditions such as asthma, COPD, lung infections, interstitial lung disease, and sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. Her goal is not only to treat illness but also to help patients breathe better, live healthier lives, and regain confidence in their daily activities.

Medicine attracted her early because it blends science with compassion. During her training, she found herself drawn to pulmonology, recognizing how essential breathing is to life and how frequently respiratory conditions are overlooked or diagnosed late. She saw an opportunity to work in a field where timely diagnosis and treatment could significantly improve a person’s quality of life.

Dr. Solanki is a first generation medical professional, and her journey has been shaped by dedication and perseverance. She began her career working in the government sector before transitioning to full time private practice. Over the years, she has not only treated patients but also contributed to raising awareness about respiratory health and sleep disorders. In India, sleep related conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea often remain underdiagnosed, and she actively works to educate both patients and fellow physicians about their importance. For her, the most rewarding moments are when patients regain their health and return to living confidently.

As a woman in medicine, she acknowledges that balancing professional responsibilities with personal expectations can sometimes be challenging. There have also been moments when establishing credibility and authority required additional effort. Rather than discouraging her, these experiences strengthened her determination to grow and contribute meaningfully to her field.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Solanki is deeply interested in patient education and awareness. She regularly shares knowledge about respiratory and sleep health through public talks, social media, and podcasts. She also enjoys travelling and learning about different cultures, experiences that help her maintain perspective and balance outside her professional life.

Her message to aspiring professionals is clear. Success does not happen overnight. It is built through clarity of purpose, continuous learning, and disciplined effort. She encourages individuals to step outside conventional paths and pursue work that genuinely improves people’s lives.

For Dr. Solanki, success is not defined solely by the number of patients she sees. Equally important are quality of life and work life balance. She believes every individual must define their own parameters of success and continuously refine them as life evolves.

Volume VIII

On the occasion of Women’s Day, we honour ten exceptional Indian women leaders whose vision, courage, and relentless pursuit of excellence are shaping the nation’s present and future.

Across diverse fields and industries, these trailblazers have broken barriers, challenged conventions, and redefined what leadership truly means. Their journeys are not just stories of success, but powerful testaments to resilience, purpose, and the transformative impact of women who lead with conviction.

Masaba Gupta, Founder – House of Masaba

Masaba Gupta, renowned as one of India’s foremost fashion designers, has carved an inspiring path in the industry, overcoming challenges tied to her mixed heritage with unwavering determination. The daughter of veteran actor Neena Gupta, Masaba embarked on her fashion journey at just 19, debuting with a collection at Lakme Fashion Week. Armed with a degree in Apparel Manufacturing and Design, she initially explored the world of dance, earning accolades in college.

Masaba’s innate flair for fashion, coupled with a passionate attitude, led her to recognize her true calling. Balancing creativity, commercial appeal, and functionality, she founded ‘House of Masaba,’ her eponymous label that has garnered widespread acclaim. Breaking barriers, she became the first Indian designer to host a fashion show on Instagram, showcasing her innovative approach.

Despite initial challenges, Masaba’s persistence and creative prowess have seen her collaborate with renowned fashion brands.

Riccha Singh, Founder – Life Partners Destiny

Riccha Singh is an entrepreneur who works across multiple spaces, blending business with community-driven initiatives. She curates lifestyle exhibitions, owns a petrol pump, and leads a social venture called Life Partners Destiny, a Rajput matrimony platform designed to create meaningful connections within the community.

Life Partners Destiny is a venture especially close to her heart. The idea emerged from recognizing a genuine need for a trusted and well-managed matrimony platform within the Rajput community. Riccha manages the technical side of the platform, ensuring its smooth functioning and efficiency. For her, this initiative is not just about running a digital platform but about contributing to society in a meaningful way. By combining technology with purpose, she has helped create a space that brings people together and strengthens community bonds.

Her second initiative, Hidden Treasures, is a lifestyle exhibition that began almost by chance. What started as a casual idea with a friend, driven by a shared curiosity to discover unique brands and products, gradually evolved into a full-fledged exhibition. Hidden Treasures now showcases carefully curated brands and products to the city, supporting small businesses and celebrating creativity. Over time, it has grown into a platform that highlights distinctive offerings while adding a fresh perspective to the urban lifestyle space.

Riccha describes her journey as both fulfilling and transformative. Through Destiny, she realized that entrepreneurship is not only about building businesses but also about creating opportunities to give back to society. With Hidden Treasures, she experienced the excitement of watching a simple idea grow into something widely appreciated. The overwhelming response and support have made the journey deeply rewarding.

Her biggest inspiration is her mother, who, despite choosing to focus on home and family, always encouraged her to dream big and pursue her ambitions. As a woman, Riccha believes the real challenge lies in balancing multiple roles at once, managing personal responsibilities alongside professional aspirations. However, she views these experiences as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and spending time with friends. These moments help her unwind and bring fresh inspiration.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple. Start with passion and do not hesitate to take the first step. Success, she believes, comes through persistence and learning along the way. For Riccha, success is not a final destination but a continuous journey of growth, purpose, and meaningful contribution.

Dr. Ritu Khemani, Founder & Lead Physiotherapist – Recura Physio

Dr. Ritu Khemani is the Founder and Lead Physiotherapist at Recura Physio, where evidence-based rehabilitation meets personalised, compassionate care. Driven by a deep curiosity about how the human body heals, adapts, and performs, she built her career around the belief that recovery is not merely about relieving pain, but about restoring function, confidence, and quality of life.

Her journey into physiotherapy began during her academic training and early clinical exposure, where she recognised that meaningful rehabilitation extends beyond symptoms. This understanding shaped her purpose-driven approach—one that prioritises long-term outcomes, patient education, and individualised care over quick fixes.

Over the years, Dr. Khemani’s professional path has been defined by continuous learning and clinical evolution. Working with patients across age groups and conditions refined her rehabilitation strategies and strengthened her clinical reasoning. Founding Recura Physio was a natural progression—creating a space where personalised treatment plans, scientific rigour, and patient empowerment come together.

She draws inspiration from clinicians and entrepreneurs who balance scientific excellence with empathy, and from her patients, whose resilience and trust reaffirm her commitment to the profession every day.

As a woman entrepreneur in healthcare, Dr. Khemani has navigated challenges such as establishing authority, balancing professional growth with personal responsibilities, and overcoming societal expectations. These experiences strengthened her leadership, resilience, and confidence in her expertise.

Beyond her clinical practice, she actively engages in professional development and knowledge sharing within the physiotherapy community. She also prioritises fitness, mindfulness, and time with family, believing balance is essential to sustained excellence.

Dr. Khemani’s message to aspiring professionals is rooted in purpose and persistence: success is built through consistency, adaptability, and integrity. Starting small, learning continuously, and trusting one’s value are key to long-term growth.

For her, success is measured not by titles or recognition alone, but by impact. Helping individuals move better, live pain-free, and regain trust in their bodies is the true reward—and the journey, she believes, is still unfolding.

Namrata Lalwani, Mahjong Instructor – Founder – Let’s Get Our Mahj On!!

In a world where traditional games are often seen as nostalgic pastimes, Namrata Lalwani is redefining Mahjong as a modern symbol of strategy, confidence, and community. As the founder of Let’s Get Our Mahj On!!, she has transformed her passion into a thriving platform that empowers women through the timeless art of Mahjong.

What began as small learning circles has evolved into a vibrant community of confident players. Namrata’s journey has been driven by persistence, clarity of vision, and a deep belief that Mahjong is far more than a game — it is a tool for mental agility, bonding, and self-assurance.

Her classes are known for their structured teaching approach, warm atmosphere, and a strong foundation in rules and scoring. From guiding beginners through their very first East Round to mentoring advanced players with strategic depth, she ensures that every student feels supported and empowered.

When asked what inspires her, Namrata speaks about the transformation she witnesses daily — hesitant learners becoming confident decision-makers at the table. Her greatest motivation is the community she has built and the friendships that blossom through the game.

Her inspiration comes from strong women who build something of their own from scratch — women who create spaces instead of waiting for one. She believes that passion combined with discipline creates magic.

Beyond regular classes, Namrata curates premium Mahjong events — high teas and luxury game afternoons — where the vibe is elegant, energetic, and empowering. She has created not just players, but a community.

Her message to new entrepreneurs:
“Start before you feel ready. Perfection is built in the process. There will be doubts, slow days, and challenges — but consistency will outshine talent. If you believe in what you are building, show up for it every single day.
Passion gives you direction, but discipline builds your dream. Stay consistent, stay authentic, and focus on impact over applause.”

Today, Let’s Get Our Mahj On!! stands as more than a brand — it is a growing movement that celebrates skill, builds confidence, and encourages self-growth. And according to Namrata, this is only the beginning of a much larger vision for Mahjong in modern India. It is about turning a traditional game into a modern lifestyle experience.

And this is only the beginning.

Pall Oberoi, Live show anchor & makeup artist

Pall Oberoi is a live show anchor and makeup artist who has built a dynamic career around communication, stage presence, and passion for public engagement. Over the years, she has carved a distinctive identity in the world of live hosting while also balancing a professional career in government service.

Her journey began in 2006 when she stepped into the world of modeling. During that time, someone noticed her strong speaking skills and offered her an opportunity to host an event. That moment became the starting point of her career as a stage anchor. What began as a single opportunity soon grew into a passion for live hosting and public speaking.

Since then, Pall has hosted numerous shows across India. Her work has included television hosting as well, with three TV shows to her credit. Over the years she has anchored several prestigious government events and large scale concerts alongside renowned artists such as Sunidhi Chauhan, Rekha Bhardwaj, Himesh Reshammiya, Tochi Raina, and Abhijeet. These experiences helped her establish a strong reputation as a confident and engaging stage presenter.

At one point, her career took a different direction when she was selected as a Rajasthan Administrative Service officer. She later cleared several banking examinations and eventually moved into a position as a Gazetted Officer with a Central Government organization. During this phase, anchoring took a back seat as she focused on her administrative career.

However, in 2024 she hosted a large scale event for more than two thousand people. That experience reminded her of the energy and joy she felt while being on stage. Realizing that she deeply missed that creative spark, she decided to restart her hosting career alongside her professional responsibilities. Since then, she has successfully re established herself in the field, working with major organizations and brands including the Adani Group, Walmart, IDFC, HDFC, and British Telecom. She has also become a popular name for hosting NRI weddings and special events.

Pall draws her greatest inspiration from her mother, who has been her constant source of encouragement and strength. She credits her family, including her husband and in laws, for supporting her professional journey and respecting her choices. She believes that when women focus on developing their skills while maintaining clear personal boundaries, they can navigate any industry with confidence.

Apart from her work on stage, Pall continues to serve as a Gazetted Officer in a Central Government organization. Hosting events remains a passion that fuels her love for communication and public interaction.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple yet powerful. Never give up, even during times when support seems limited. If you stay committed to your path and continue working with dedication, people eventually begin to believe in your vision.

As someone who has experienced multiple professional roles over fifteen years, from model and anchor to administrative officer and government professional, Pall believes that self belief is the most important ingredient for success. She is also a mother of two and strongly encourages other mothers to remember that motherhood does not mark the end of personal dreams. Instead, it can become the beginning of a new and expanded journey.

Dr. Divya Kharat, MDS – Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Founder – The Poona Aesthetics

Dr. Divya Kharat is an MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics and the owner of The Poona Aesthetics, a state of the art dental clinic specializing in Orthodontics and Dental Implants.

Dentistry fascinated her from the very beginning because it blends science, precision, artistry, and transformation. Orthodontics, in particular, captured her interest because of its ability to permanently transform a person’s smile and confidence through structured, well planned treatment. The idea of creating lasting impact inspired her to pursue this specialty. She began her professional journey in 2016 after graduation and went on to complete her post graduation in Orthodontics, graduating as a topper from MUHS University.

Starting out in a new city without an established base was not easy. She had no external backing, only her education, skills, and determination. She began with a single chair clinic where every patient and every case mattered deeply. For five years, she focused on ethical practice, quality care, and consistent effort. Slowly, trust began to build. That trust became the foundation for growth. Today, The Poona Aesthetics stands as a premium dental center equipped with advanced technology and personalized care. The journey from one chair to a specialized center was built entirely on consistency and belief.

Her inspiration comes from the constant desire to become better than she was yesterday. She believes in quiet growth and steady improvement. As a young woman establishing herself independently, she had to repeatedly earn credibility. Starting fresh in a new city meant working twice as hard to prove her expertise. Instead of viewing challenges as obstacles, she chose to treat them as stepping stones.

Beyond dentistry, Dr. Divya is deeply passionate about animal welfare. She spends her free time caring for stray animals and dreams of opening a shelter for abandoned and injured animals in the future. For her, compassion extends beyond professional success.

Her message to aspiring professionals is clear: start small if you must, but start. Do not wait for perfect conditions. Build credibility through consistency, stay ethical, and trust the process. Success is built quietly through discipline, resilience, and self belief.

Her story is not defined by infrastructure or recognition, but by the journey from a single chair clinic to a trusted center of excellence built on courage and perseverance.

Shweta Rohira, Actor, Host, Artist, Entrepreneur, Author, Professional book reviewer & content creator

Shweta Rohira is a multifaceted creative professional who has built a distinctive presence across several fields. She is an actor, host, artist, entrepreneur, author, professional book reviewer, and content creator. Over the years, she has created a unique space for herself in the media and creative industry by combining storytelling, communication, and artistic expression. Whether she is hosting meaningful conversations, reviewing books with honesty and depth, creating art, or producing engaging content, her work reflects a deep commitment to creativity and connection.

Her journey began with curiosity and the courage to explore different possibilities. Acting introduced her to the world of storytelling and performance, which gradually opened doors to other creative avenues. From there, her natural inclination toward communication and connection led her into hosting, writing, and entrepreneurship. Instead of waiting for the perfect opportunity, she chose to build momentum through continuous learning, experimentation, and reinvention.

Shweta’s professional path has never been linear. It has been shaped by achievements, pauses, transformations, and powerful lessons. Through every stage, she discovered that success is not defined by constant highs but by resilience, authenticity, and the willingness to keep moving forward. Each experience strengthened her understanding of her purpose and her own potential.

Her greatest inspiration has always been her mother. Watching her mother navigate life with quiet strength, compassion, and dignity deeply influenced Shweta’s outlook. She learned from her that true strength does not always seek attention but reveals itself through consistent actions and grace, even during difficult times.

Like many women carving their own paths, Shweta has faced moments when her abilities were underestimated and her choices questioned. She also experienced life altering challenges that required her to pause, heal, and rebuild herself from within. Recovering after a serious accident became not only a physical journey but also an emotional and spiritual one. It required rediscovering confidence, reclaiming purpose, and learning to trust life again. These experiences reshaped her understanding of resilience. Today, she carries those experiences not as burdens but as symbols of strength and growth.

Beyond her professional work, Shweta values mindfulness and personal growth. She enjoys travelling and exploring different cultures, which continuously inspire her creativity. Music, wellness practices, and meaningful conversations with loved ones form an important part of her daily life. She also dedicates time to mentoring and working with school going children by conducting painting, calligraphy, and handwriting workshops, experiences that keep her connected to creativity and innocence.

Her message to aspiring professionals is to believe in their vision even when others may not see it yet. She encourages people to build their value, remain patient with the process, and allow themselves the freedom to grow and redefine success on their own terms.

For Shweta Rohira, success is not measured only through recognition or achievements. It is found in living fully, appreciating each moment, and embracing life with gratitude, awareness, and joy.

Sneha Burman, Celebrity manager & influencer marketing entrepreneur

Sneha Burman is a celebrity manager and influencer marketing entrepreneur who has steadily built her place in the entertainment and media industry through determination, learning, and resilience. Her journey began with a strong academic foundation in media and entertainment. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Media from Kolkata and later moved to Mumbai to pursue a Master’s degree in Entertainment, a step that opened the doors to the fast paced world of the industry.

At just nineteen, Sneha began her professional journey with Zee in Mumbai. She joined as an intern for reality shows, gaining early exposure to the workings of television production. Alongside this, she also started working on wedding events to gain practical experience and earn additional income. These early years were demanding but deeply formative. They helped her understand the pace, competitiveness, and dedication required to succeed in the entertainment industry. Through this period, she discovered her passion for management, coordination, and working closely with talent.

The unexpected arrival of the COVID pandemic brought her back to Kolkata, which turned out to be a significant turning point in her career. She joined SVF Entertainment, one of the biggest production houses in the region, where she worked as a celebrity and influencer manager. The experience allowed her to grow professionally while managing prominent personalities from the Bengali entertainment industry. At SVF, she developed the confidence to handle large teams, manage professional relationships with celebrities and influencers, and navigate the demands of the industry with maturity.

Building on this experience, Sneha took a bold step toward entrepreneurship. At the age of twenty eight, she launched her own influencer marketing agency, 11Eleven Media and Marketing, in Kolkata. Through this venture, she aims to create impactful collaborations between brands, influencers, and public personalities while continuing to grow within the entertainment ecosystem.

Sneha draws her greatest inspiration from her mother. Watching her mother face life’s challenges and raise a family with strength and determination shaped Sneha’s outlook on resilience and courage. Those experiences taught her to remain strong and grounded in difficult situations.

In the early stages of her career, being young and new to the industry sometimes led people to underestimate her. However, she relied on her intuition, observation, and quiet confidence to navigate challenges. Instead of reacting loudly, she learned to move forward with grace and focus.

Outside of work, Sneha enjoys travelling and exploring new destinations. Being a water lover, she particularly enjoys sea adventures and coastal experiences whenever she travels. For her, travel offers both relaxation and inspiration.

Her message to aspiring professionals is simple. Stay confident, trust your instincts, and continue moving forward despite external noise. Believing in your own strength, she believes, is the first step toward building something meaningful.