The Rise of Women Social Entrepreneurs in India

What is Social Entrepreneurship?

Social entrepreneurship involves innovative solutions to social problems, focusing on impact over profit. Unlike traditional businesses, these ventures reinvest earnings into community development, fostering sustainable progress. In India, women-led social enterprises have been at the forefront of addressing issues like education, women’s empowerment, and financial inclusion.

1.Aditi Gupta: Breaking Taboos and Empowering Women Through Menstrual Education

Aditi Gupta, the founder of Menstrupedia, is a trailblazer in menstrual education in India. Her initiative has transformed the way young girls and women perceive menstruation, breaking long-standing societal taboos and fostering awareness about menstrual hygiene.

Born in Garhwa, Jharkhand, Aditi pursued her education in engineering and design. She earned her master’s degree from the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, where she researched menstrual taboos and hygiene practices. Her academic background played a crucial role in shaping Menstrupedia, combining design, storytelling, and education to address a critical social issue.

Growing up in a society where periods were shrouded in secrecy and misconceptions, Aditi herself faced challenges due to the lack of proper information. Like many young girls, she experienced shame and restrictions during her menstrual cycle. This inspired her to create a solution that would educate and empower future generations.

Aditi, along with her husband Tuhin Paul, co-founded Menstrupedia in 2012 as a comic book that simplifies menstrual education in an engaging and relatable way. The comic book explains menstruation scientifically while addressing myths and cultural taboos. It is now used in over 25 countries and has been translated into multiple languages. Schools, NGOs, and parents have adopted it as a trusted resource to teach young girls about their bodies confidently.

Through Menstrupedia, Aditi has challenged the deep-rooted stigma surrounding menstruation. Her efforts go beyond just education; they contribute to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and better health outcomes. By creating a dialogue around menstruation, she is helping break the cycle of silence that has existed for generations.

Her work has been recognized globally, earning her a spot in Forbes India’s 30 Under 30 list. She continues to advocate for menstrual awareness, collaborating with schools, organizations, and influencers to make period education accessible to all.

Aditi Gupta’s journey is an inspiring example of how knowledge and determination can drive change. Through Menstrupedia, she has not only provided a much-needed educational tool but has also paved the way for a society where menstruation is understood, accepted, and talked about openly.

Her work is a reminder that small steps toward awareness can lead to a significant impact. By empowering young girls with the right information, she is shaping a future where menstruation is seen as a natural and normal process, free from stigma and shame.

2.Sairee Chahal: Empowering Women Through Career Opportunities and Mentorship

Sairee Chahal, the visionary founder of SHEROES, is a pioneer in the field of women’s empowerment, particularly in the professional and entrepreneurial landscape. Through SHEROES, she has created a transformative platform that connects women to career opportunities, mentorship, and business growth networks, enabling them to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Born and raised in India, Sairee was deeply influenced by the challenges women face in the workplace and the lack of networks that support women’s professional growth. She completed her education in Economics from Delhi University, followed by an MBA from Indian School of Business (ISB), where her interest in addressing women’s issues in the workforce grew. This academic background, coupled with her personal experiences, set the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey.

Sairee launched SHEROES in 2014 with the goal of providing women with a safe space to explore career opportunities, find mentorship, and build connections that can accelerate their professional growth. The platform has evolved into a powerful network, offering women access to job listings, online courses, career coaching, and a space to engage with other women in their professional journeys.

One of the most remarkable features of SHEROES is its focus on fostering an environment of community and collaboration, as opposed to competition. It empowers women to find their own path to success, whether they are looking for flexible work opportunities, scaling their businesses, or transitioning to new careers. SHEROES provides tailored resources for women at every stage of their professional life, including support for those who are reentering the workforce after a career break or starting a business.

Sairee’s leadership in the women’s empowerment space has garnered recognition on multiple platforms. Her efforts have been instrumental in redefining the professional landscape for women in India. Through SHEROES, she has demonstrated how platforms can be designed to break barriers and open doors for women, creating a community where they can thrive.

Her vision continues to inspire women around the world, proving that when women are connected, empowered, and supported, they can achieve remarkable success. Sairee Chahal’s work reminds us that empowering women isn’t just about equal opportunity—it’s about creating the right environment for them to excel and lead.

3.Neha Motwani: Revolutionizing Fitness with Digital Wellness Solutions

Neha Motwani, the founder of Fitternity, is a trailblazer in the health and wellness industry. Her platform has transformed the way people approach fitness, making it more accessible, convenient, and personalized. Through Fitternity, she has created a one-stop solution for individuals seeking gym memberships, fitness classes, and wellness programs, turning fitness into a sustainable lifestyle choice for millions.

Born and raised in India, Neha pursued her education in finance and business. She earned an MBA from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) and later worked in the corporate sector before realizing her passion for health and fitness. Her personal struggle to find flexible and engaging fitness options led her to the idea of Fitternity, merging her business acumen with her desire to create a fitness ecosystem.

Launched in 2013, Fitternity emerged as India’s largest fitness discovery and booking platform. It provides users with access to a wide range of fitness centers, yoga studios, personal training programs, and wellness solutions. The platform allows users to explore, book, and experience fitness options that suit their lifestyle, making workouts more accessible and enjoyable.

One of the key features of Fitternity is its “Pay-Per-Session” model, which offers users the flexibility to try different fitness activities without long-term commitments. This innovative approach encourages individuals to experiment with various workout styles, helping them find routines that best suit their needs. Additionally, the platform integrates digital engagement tools such as AI-based fitness recommendations and virtual training sessions, keeping users motivated.

Under Neha’s leadership, Fitternity has grown exponentially, partnering with thousands of fitness centers and expanding across major cities. Her efforts have significantly bridged the gap between technology and fitness, making wellness an integral part of urban life.

Neha Motwani’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and fitness enthusiasts alike. By leveraging technology to simplify access to health and wellness, she has not only disrupted the traditional fitness industry but also empowered individuals to take charge of their well-being. Her vision continues to shape the future of digital fitness, making a healthier lifestyle achievable for all.

4.Upasana Taku: Driving Financial Inclusion Through Digital Payments

Upasana Taku, the co-founder of MobiKwik, is a fintech trailblazer who has played a significant role in transforming India’s digital payment ecosystem. With a vision to make financial services accessible to millions, she has built one of India’s leading mobile wallets and payment platforms, empowering both urban and rural users with seamless digital transactions.

Born and raised in India, Upasana pursued her education in engineering and business. She completed her Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jalandhar, and later earned a Master’s degree in Management Science from Stanford University, USA. Her international exposure and experience in the financial sector gave her the expertise and confidence to bring global fintech innovations to India.

After working in the U.S. with PayPal and HSBC, Upasana returned to India with a mission to bridge the gap in digital payments. In 2009, she co-founded MobiKwik with her husband, Bipin Preet Singh, with the goal of providing an alternative to cash transactions in a country where digital payments were still in their infancy.

MobiKwik started as a mobile wallet and gradually expanded into a full-fledged fintech platform, offering bill payments, loans, insurance, and investment services. The platform’s ease of use and security features attracted millions of users, making it one of India’s most trusted digital financial services providers.

Upasana’s leadership has been pivotal in MobiKwik’s success. She has focused on financial inclusion, ensuring that unbanked and underbanked individuals have access to digital financial services. Under her guidance, MobiKwik has also partnered with various businesses to offer seamless payment solutions, strengthening India’s cashless economy.

Her contributions to fintech have been widely recognized, earning her accolades as one of India’s most influential women entrepreneurs. Upasana continues to be a driving force in the digital finance space, working towards a future where financial services are affordable, accessible, and secure for everyone.

Through MobiKwik, Upasana Taku has revolutionized digital payments, proving that technology can be a powerful tool for financial empowerment. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, showing that with determination, innovation, and a strong vision, one can create meaningful change in the world.

5.Ghazal Alagh: Transforming Beauty with Sustainable and Toxin-Free Products

Ghazal Alagh, the co-founder of Mamaearth, is a visionary entrepreneur who has redefined the beauty and personal care industry by introducing natural, toxin-free, and environmentally friendly products. Her brand has revolutionized the way consumers approach skincare, baby care, and wellness, making safe and sustainable choices more accessible.

Born and raised in India, Ghazal pursued her education in Information Technology and later deepened her knowledge in the field of art and innovation. She completed her Bachelor’s in Computer Applications from Punjab University and further honed her skills at The New York Academy of Art, where she studied design and applied arts. Her diverse educational background helped her combine creativity with business acumen, leading to the birth of a purpose-driven brand.

Ghazal co-founded Mamaearth in 2016 alongside her husband, Varun Alagh, after struggling to find safe and chemical-free products for their child. Realizing the lack of natural and toxin-free options in the market, they decided to create a brand that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and effectiveness. Today, Mamaearth is one of India’s fastest-growing D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) brands, offering a wide range of skincare, haircare, and baby care products that are free from harmful chemicals.

What sets Mamaearth apart is its commitment to sustainability and social impact. The brand follows an eco-conscious approach, using natural ingredients, recyclable packaging, and even planting a tree for every order placed. This initiative not only promotes green consumerism but also encourages a larger movement towards environmental responsibility.

Under Ghazal’s leadership, Mamaearth has rapidly expanded its presence across India and beyond, gaining the trust of millions of customers. Her dedication to providing safe, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested products has earned her accolades as one of India’s leading women entrepreneurs.

Ghazal Alagh’s journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. By combining innovation with sustainability, she has reshaped the beauty industry, proving that businesses can be both profitable and environmentally responsible. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, showing that with passion, resilience, and a clear vision, one can make a meaningful impact on the world.

6.Richa Kar: Redefining Lingerie Shopping for Indian Women

Richa Kar, the founder of Zivame, is a pioneering entrepreneur who revolutionized the way Indian women shop for intimate wear. By creating an online lingerie platform that prioritizes comfort, privacy, and informed choices, she has played a crucial role in breaking societal taboos and empowering women with confidence in their shopping experiences.

Born and raised in India, Richa pursued her education in engineering and business management. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from BITS Pilani and later earned an MBA from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), Mumbai. Her career began in the retail and e-commerce sector, where she gained insights into consumer behavior, which later inspired her to build Zivame.

In 2011, Richa founded Zivame, an online lingerie platform designed to offer a seamless and discreet shopping experience for Indian women. At a time when purchasing lingerie was often uncomfortable due to social stigma and limited choices in physical stores, Zivame provided a safe and personalized space for women to explore and buy intimate wear that suited their body types and preferences.

One of Zivame’s most significant contributions was its focus on education and body positivity. The platform introduced size guides, fitting consultations, and style recommendations, helping women make informed decisions about their purchases. Zivame also played a key role in normalizing conversations around lingerie, breaking away from traditional taboos in Indian society.

Under Richa’s leadership, Zivame grew rapidly, attracting millions of customers and expanding its product line beyond lingerie to include activewear, sleepwear, and shapewear. The brand also launched exclusive offline stores, further bridging the gap between online convenience and in-store experiences.

Richa Kar’s journey is an inspiring example of vision, determination, and courage. By challenging societal norms and introducing a disruptive business model, she has empowered countless women to embrace confidence and comfort in their choices. Her entrepreneurial success serves as a role model for aspiring women leaders, proving that businesses can drive both commercial success and social change.

7.Shradha Sharma: The Storyteller of Indian Entrepreneurship

Shradha Sharma, the founder of YourStory, has transformed the way India’s startup ecosystem is perceived by creating a platform that amplifies the voices of entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers. YourStory is now the country’s largest digital media platform dedicated to startup stories, business insights, and entrepreneurial journeys, helping countless aspiring founders gain visibility and inspiration.

Shradha was born and raised in Patna, Bihar, and pursued her education in history and mass communication. She completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and later studied mass communication at MICA, Ahmedabad. Her academic background in storytelling and communication laid the foundation for her future role as a leading voice in India’s startup ecosystem.

Before founding YourStory in 2008, Shradha worked with renowned media houses like The Times of India and CNBC-TV18, where she covered business news and entrepreneurial success stories. However, she realized that many inspiring startup journeys were going unnoticed, and mainstream media often focused only on established businesses. This gap in storytelling motivated her to create a platform solely dedicated to emerging entrepreneurs and startups.

YourStory started as a small digital platform but quickly became the go-to source for startup news, founder interviews, and business insights. Over the years, it has featured over 100,000 startup stories and built a strong community of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. The platform provides news, resources, and mentorship, empowering startups with the knowledge they need to grow and scale their businesses.

Shradha’s vision has helped democratize entrepreneurship by bringing stories from all corners of India, including rural and women-led startups. She has played a crucial role in shaping India’s startup landscape, ensuring that emerging businesses and founders receive the recognition they deserve.

Her journey is an inspiration for those who believe in the power of storytelling, resilience, and innovation. Through YourStory, Shradha Sharma has not only given entrepreneurs a voice but has also created a movement that celebrates and nurtures India’s vibrant startup ecosystem.

8.Falguni Nayar: The Visionary Behind Nykaa’s Beauty Revolution

Falguni Nayar, the founder and CEO of Nykaa, has redefined the beauty and cosmetics industry in India. Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to determination, innovation, and business acumen, making her one of the most influential women entrepreneurs in the country. By creating Nykaa, she not only transformed the way Indian consumers shop for beauty products but also empowered women-led businesses and independent brands to thrive in a digital-first marketplace.

Born and raised in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Falguni Nayar pursued her education at Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics before earning an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A). Her strong educational background in finance and business management played a crucial role in shaping her successful corporate career and later, her entrepreneurial venture.

Before launching Nykaa in 2012, Falguni had a highly successful career in investment banking. She worked for Kotak Mahindra Bank for nearly two decades, serving as the Managing Director of Kotak Investment Banking. Despite having a thriving career in finance, she decided to take a bold step in her early 50s—venturing into the e-commerce beauty industry, a sector dominated by global giants at the time.

Nykaa was launched as an online beauty and personal care platform, providing access to a wide range of authentic, high-quality products from global and Indian brands. Unlike traditional retailers, Nykaa built its reputation by offering a curated shopping experience, expert beauty advice, and an extensive product catalog catering to the needs of Indian consumers. Over time, Nykaa expanded into physical retail stores, introduced its own private-label beauty brand, and became a leader in multi-brand online beauty retailing.

Falguni’s bold vision and strategic leadership led Nykaa to become one of India’s most successful startups. In 2021, the company went public with a highly successful IPO, making her one of the richest self-made women entrepreneurs in India. Through Nykaa, Falguni Nayar has not only transformed the beauty industry but has also set an inspiring example for women who aspire to break barriers and build successful businesses.

9.Vineeta Singh: The Entrepreneur Who Redefined Beauty with Sugar Cosmetics

Vineeta Singh, the co-founder and CEO of Sugar Cosmetics, has made a significant mark in the Indian beauty industry. Her journey as an entrepreneur is an inspiring tale of resilience, innovation, and strategic leadership. By launching Sugar Cosmetics, she has built a brand that resonates with young Indian consumers, offering high-quality, affordable, and cruelty-free beauty products that challenge global competitors.

Born and raised in India, Vineeta Singh pursued her education at IIT Madras, where she studied Electrical Engineering. She later went on to complete her MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A). Despite receiving high-paying job offers after her MBA, she chose to follow her entrepreneurial dreams, taking risks to establish her own ventures.

Vineeta’s passion for creating a brand that caters to Indian consumers led to the birth of Sugar Cosmetics in 2015, along with her husband, Kaushik Mukherjee. Initially, Sugar started as a direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand, focusing on online sales before expanding into brick-and-mortar retail stores across India. The brand quickly gained popularity due to its bold, long-lasting makeup products designed for Indian skin tones and weather conditions.

Unlike many international brands that failed to meet the specific beauty needs of Indian women, Sugar Cosmetics developed products that were highly pigmented, smudge-proof, and sweat-resistant—ideal for the Indian climate. The brand’s marketing strategy, heavily leveraging social media and influencer-driven promotions, helped it connect with young, independent women looking for high-performance makeup at affordable prices.

Under Vineeta’s leadership, Sugar Cosmetics has become one of India’s fastest-growing beauty brands, competing with global giants like Maybelline and L’Oréal. The brand has also expanded into international markets, further strengthening its position in the beauty industry.

Vineeta Singh’s entrepreneurial journey is a powerful example of how vision, persistence, and consumer insight can transform an idea into a successful business. She continues to inspire young women entrepreneurs, proving that with the right mindset and determination, one can challenge industry norms and create a lasting impact.

10.Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw: The Visionary Behind India’s Biotech Revolution

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the Chairperson and Founder of Biocon, has been a trailblazer in the global biotechnology industry. As one of India’s most influential business leaders, she has played a pivotal role in making affordable healthcare and life-saving medicines accessible to millions. Her journey from being a young entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry to leading one of India’s largest biotech companies is nothing short of inspirational.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was born in Bangalore, India. She pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Bangalore University and later went to the University of Melbourne, Australia, where she completed her Master’s degree in Malting and Brewing Science. She initially aspired to be a brewmaster, but upon facing gender-related barriers in the brewing industry, she pivoted to biotechnology, which led to the foundation of Biocon in 1978.

Starting Biocon from a garage with limited capital, Kiran faced numerous challenges, including skepticism from investors and difficulty in hiring skilled talent. However, her unwavering determination and scientific expertise helped her establish India’s first biotech company, focusing on enzyme manufacturing. Over time, Biocon expanded its operations into biopharmaceuticals, diabetes treatment, and cancer research, developing affordable insulin and biosimilars that benefited patients worldwide.

Under her leadership, Biocon has emerged as a global leader in affordable drug innovation, particularly in areas such as oncology, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. She has been recognized for her commitment to research and development, ensuring that breakthrough medicines reach those who need them most. Her contributions to affordable healthcare solutions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan, two of India’s highest civilian honors.

Beyond business, Kiran is an advocate for women’s leadership, scientific research, and social healthcare initiatives. She actively supports STEM education, mentorship for young entrepreneurs, and philanthropic projects aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure in India.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s journey is a testament to how persistence, innovation, and a strong vision can redefine industries and impact lives globally. Her pioneering work continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs, proving that science-driven businesses can create real-world change.