In recent years, India has witnessed a remarkable surge in women entrepreneurship, with women breaking barriers across diverse industries and emerging as leaders in their respective fields. From tech startups to traditional industries, these trailblazing women are not only challenging the status quo but are also redefining the landscape of business and innovation. Despite facing challenges such as gender bias, limited access to funding, and societal expectations, women entrepreneurs in India have demonstrated unparalleled resilience, vision, and creativity.These women entrepreneurs are leading change, breaking barriers, and setting a new standard of excellence across various industries in India. Their stories are inspiring and serve as a testament to the power of resilience and innovation.
Today, women in India are taking charge of their careers, building sustainable businesses, and inspiring future generations. The success stories of women like Falguni Nayar, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, and Richa Kar highlight the transformative power of entrepreneurship in empowering women and driving economic growth. In this article, we will explore the journeys of some of India's most influential women entrepreneurs and delve into the evolving ecosystem that is helping them thrive. Their achievements not only inspire aspiring entrepreneurs but also play a pivotal role in fostering a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial environment in India.
1 - Barkha Nangia- Barkha Nangia, the founder of Glamour Gurgaon, is a dynamic force in women’s empowerment and a visionary entrepreneur. She established the company with the goal of providing married women a platform to not only showcase their talents but also achieve a harmonious balance between family and career. Under her leadership, Glamour Gurgaon has swiftly become one of India’s premier event management firms, specializing in high-profile events such as fashion shows, beauty pageants, award ceremonies, and product launches.
Barkha’s vision extends far beyond event planning. She has dedicated herself to empowering women to thrive in all aspects of life. Through her flagship beauty pageants, including Mrs. World International, Mrs. India - Pride of Nation, and Ms. India Curvy - The Plus Size Show, Barkha celebrates the diverse beauty, talents, and personalities of women from all walks of life. These platforms not only provide a space to recognize women’s achievements but also offer invaluable opportunities for networking, personal growth, and professional development.
By creating these transformative spaces, Barkha is changing the narrative around women’s roles in society, proving that they can excel in both their personal and professional lives. Glamour Gurgaon is more than just an event management firm; it is a movement that challenges stereotypes and uplifts women across India, demonstrating the strength, resilience, and potential of women in all spheres of life.
2 - Tina Singh Walia - Tina Walia is a renowned image coach and life coach with over 27 years of experience in the fashion industry and 8 years as a certified image consultant. She has transformed the lives of more than 12,000 individuals, including corporate leaders, public figures, and professionals, by empowering them to enhance their personal image and unlock their full potential.
With a deep understanding of the intersection between image and personal growth, Tina offers tailored coaching programs designed to boost confidence, refine professional presence, and elevate overall effectiveness. Her approach is not just about appearances, but about building the inner strength to radiate confidence and achieve success in all areas of life.
As a thought leader, Tina shares her expertise across multiple platforms, including Sipping Thoughts, and through media outlets, workshops, seminars, and keynote speeches. Her work resonates with a wide audience, helping individuals and organizations understand the profound impact that a polished, authentic image can have on personal and professional success.
Tina’s holistic coaching philosophy goes beyond traditional image management — she empowers her clients to transform their mindset, develop lasting self-confidence, and maximize their potential. As a result, she has become a respected figure in the world of personal development, guiding many toward achieving not only their professional goals but also greater personal fulfillment.
3 - Mithi Kalra - Mithi Kalra is an accomplished designer and entrepreneur who launched her eponymous brand in 2017, following her graduation from the prestigious National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). What began as a small studio in Noida with a dedicated team of seven has blossomed into a recognized fashion brand that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and a keen business acumen.
Mithi's brand has gained impressive traction, both through an offline store and a strong social media presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Her creations have caught the eye of notable actors such as Pooja Sawant and Sonali Kulkarni, further solidifying her status in the fashion industry.
One of Mithi's standout collections, the Moonlight Collection, drew inspiration from the celestial beauty of the moon and stars, capturing attention at the prestigious India Runway Week. This collection exemplifies Mithi's ability to merge artistic vision with commercial appeal, drawing inspiration from nature while creating fashion-forward pieces.
Her business model has been particularly effective, balancing offline and online sales, with 50% of revenue coming from her studio and 20% from her online platforms. This approach has enabled Mithi to expand her global reach, serving customers in countries like Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Dubai. Domestically, her collections are available in key cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Gujarat, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Pune, cementing her presence across India.
Mithi Kalra’s brand is a testament to her innovative design sensibility and strategic business insight, making her a rising star in the fashion world with a growing international clientele.
While challenges remain, the increasing support for women-led ventures, combined with evolving social norms and government initiatives, is helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. As they continue to rise, women entrepreneurs in India are not only changing the face of business but also contributing significantly to the nation's growth, empowerment, and global presence.
