Women are breaking gender stereotypes and making their mark in the Indian business scenario. Women have always been multi-talented and adaptable, excelling in various roles such as daughter, mother, wife, friend, homemaker, educator, artist, and entrepreneur. They have been setting noteworthy examples and empowering multiple domains, including art, fashion, media, politics, sports, and education.
Gone are the days when women were only associated with emotions. Women have stepped up their game and are excelling in every field. Today, we have women maestros who are leading the world with their entrepreneurial skills. From exploring art and culture to monetizing their crafts, successful women entrepreneurs are turning their passion into groundbreaking businesses.
These women are breaking the stereotype that women are only meant for certain roles and are proving that they can excel in any field they choose. They are not just making a name for themselves but are also inspiring other women to follow their dreams and achieve their goals.
Successful women entrepreneurs who are queens of turning art into a business
1. Shubhika Sharma, CEO, Papa Don't Preach
Shubhika Sharma is a trailblazing Indian fashion designer, turning art into a business with her brand, Papa Don't Preach. She is challenging societal norms and stereotypes by creating contemporary designs catering to the modern Indian woman. Her brand has become synonymous with edgy, quirky, and glamorous designs that showcase a fusion of Indian and Western styles.
This female entrepreneur has achieved success in a highly competitive industry by infusing her designs with a unique perspective and bold creativity. She is recognised for her innovative designs, and her brand has won numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Vogue India Fashion Fund in 2014.
Shubhika is a champion of celebrating body positivity and inclusivity in her designs. She believes fashion should be for everyone, regardless of size, shape, or skin colour. Her brand offers sizes and styles to cater to diverse body types and celebrates individuality and self-expression.
Moreover, Shubhika's brand is also committed to sustainability and ethical fashion practices. She ensures that her brand's production process is eco-friendly, and she sources materials from local artisans and weavers to support traditional Indian crafts and promote ethical fashion while building an empire as one of the most successful businesswomen in the fashion space.
2. Guneet Monga, film producer and CEO, and founder, Sikhya Entertainment
Guneet Monga is a well-known Indian film producer who won an Oscar in 2023 for the documentary Elephant Whisperers. Guneet Monga began her career in the film industry as an assistant director and later founded her own production company, Sikhya Entertainment, in 2008. Since then, she has produced several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, including The Lunchbox, Masaan, and Gangs of Wasseypur.
In addition to her work as a film producer, Guneet Monga is also a strong advocate for women's rights and gender equality. She has supported various initiatives and organisations that work towards empowering women and girls, including the United Nations Population Fund's menstrual hygiene management program.
Her documentary Period. End of Sentence. brought much-needed attention to the issue of menstrual hygiene and sparked conversations about women's health and empowerment. Her work in the film industry and advocacy for women's rights have made her a prominent figure in Indian cinema and an inspiration to many.
Monga has been acknowledged as one of the top 12 women achievers in the global entertainment industry by The Hollywood Reporter and among the top 50 Indians changing India by India Today.
3. Sarah Sham, principal designer, Essajees Atelier
Sarah Sham is a young architect and entrepreneur based in Mumbai, India, known for her innovative designs and sustainable practices. She is the principal designer at Esaajees Atelier, an architecture and design firm specialising in creating unique and personalised spaces for clients.
Sarah Sham completed her education in architecture at the Academy of Architecture in Mumbai and worked with various architecture firms before starting her own business. Her work at Esaajees Atelier is recognised for its creativity, attention to detail, and use of sustainable materials and practices.
In 2020, Sarah was recognised as one of the top 32 young architects in India by Architect and Interiors India magazine, a prestigious honour that showcases her talent and contribution to the field of architecture. Sarah continues to push the boundaries of design and sustainability, creating beautiful and functional spaces that reflect her client's unique personalities and lifestyles.
4. Neha Seth Arora, partner and CEO, Var Vadhu Wedding Management
Neha Seth Arora is a prominent wedding planner based in Mumbai, India, known for her exceptional creativity and attention to detail. She is the founder and creative director of the wedding planning company, Saffron String.
Neha has become a go-to wedding planner for clients across India and beyond, with a reputation for creating stunning and personalised weddings that exceed expectations. Her services include everything from venue selection and décor to entertainment and guest management, with a laser-sharp focus on creating a seamless and stress-free experience for her clients.
Neha has won several awards and accolades for her work, including the prestigious WeddingSutra Influencer Award for Wedding Planning in 2019. She has also been featured in various media publications and has collaborated with major brands to create memorable events and is one of the most successful businesswomen.
Apart from these stellar women, don't miss these up-and-coming women entrepreneurs who recently got funding from SharkTank India. They'd make an amazing addition to the long list of women achievers in the business world.