6 Women-Led Made in India Brands Giving International Brands A Run for their Money

By: WE Staff

Experts have been saying it for a while; it is the Indian economy’s time to shine. PM Modi says that India will become the third largest economy in the next few years. Statistics support his claim too. According to Standard Chartered India’s gross domestic product (GDP) will be at $6 trillion and per capita income at $4,000 by 2030.

This accelerated growth has been achieved by the support of ambitious business leaders and entrepreneurs. From building successful companies to creating recognizable brands, new-age entrepreneurs have redefined the Indian business landscape.

Women leaders have played a noteworthy role in helping the Indian economy achieve the laurels that it has. Indian women have been breaking down barriers and succeeding admirably in business, making significant contributions to a variety of industries and changing the business landscape.

These women are establishing startups and businesses that cut across a variety of industries with a combination of passion, tenacity, and vision. They are innovating, disrupting, and addressing pressing issues with their innovative solutions in a variety of industries, from technology and healthcare to fashion and sustainable products. Aspiring business owners, particularly women, who are trying to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams, find inspiration in their stories.

As these women continue to rise, they are also cultivating an ecosystem that will support subsequent generations. They are building the foundation for a more diverse entrepreneurial landscape through mentoring, networking opportunities, and empowerment programs.

On the eve of India’s Independence Day let us take a look at seven stellar brands built by Indian women entrepreneurs that are giving their international rivals a run for their money.

Nykaa - Falguni Nayar

A renowned Indian e-commerce platform with a focus on wellness and beauty products is Nykaa. In 2012, Falguni Nayar founded the company and it quickly became well-known for its extensive selection of cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and wellness items from both foreign and Indian brands.

Nykaa's founder, Falguni has a background in investment banking and finance. Before starting her own business, she served as a managing director at Kotak Mahindra Capital Company. Her goal was to develop an online marketplace that would satisfy India's expanding need for cosmetics and wellness supplies.

Nykaa that went public in 2021 is today Indian consumers’ go-to destination for any makeup and personal-care related products.

MamaEarth - Ghazal Alagh

A well-known Indian company MamaEarth specializes in personal care items for babies and mothers. In 2016, Ghazal and Varun Alagh founded the company. MamaEarth became well-known for emphasizing natural and secure ingredients while meeting the needs of both mothers and kids.

Ghazal Alagh and her husband Varun Alagh founded MamaEarth to offer mothers and infants secure and efficient personal care products. Varun 's expertise in e-commerce and entrepreneurship, along with Ghazal 's background in marketing and brand management, enabled them to create a brand that connected with the needs of contemporary parents.

Mamaearth's parent company, Honasa Consumer Ltd, filed IPO documents in December 2022 and the company is slated to go public in the coming months.

Zivame - Richa Kar

Zivame is an Indian online lingerie and intimate wear platform. Richa Kar co-founded it in 2011. Offering a variety of products that cater to different preferences and body types, Zivame has been a pioneering force in changing how lingerie shopping is perceived and done in India.

Zivame's co-founder, Richa, has experience in both management and engineering. She founded Zivame to give Indian women a discreet, cozy, and practical way to shop for intimate apparel.

The company has so far raised a total of $69 million.

VLCC - Vandana Luthra

A well-known Indian wellness and beauty brand, VLCC (Vandana Luthra's Curls and Curves) was founded the company in 1989. VLCC provides a variety of health, wellness, and beauty services with a focus on weight loss, skincare, hair care, and other areas.

Entrepreneur and wellness enthusiast Vandana founded VLCC to offer holistic health and beauty solutions to people looking to enhance their general well-being. Her training in cosmetology and nutrition was instrumental in developing VLCC's approach to wellness.

In January this year Carlyle bought VLCC paying $275-$300 million for nearly 70% stake.

Le15 - Pooja Dhingra

Le15 is a renowned patisserie chain in India, known for its exquisite desserts and pastries. Young and talented pastry chef Pooja Dhingra founded it in 2010. Le15 has become well-known for its mouthwatering treats and creative dessert-making methods.

Le15 is the creation of pastry chef Pooja Dhingra, who is a Le Cordon Bleu graduate. She returned to Mumbai after completing her training in baking and pastry to bring premium French patisserie products to the Indian market.

Pooja is credited to introducing India to the French pastry, Macaroons and is called the ‘Macaroon Queen of India’.

Thrillophilia - Chitra Gurnani Daga

One of the co-founders of Thrillophilia, which is a well-known Indian travel and adventure website, is Chitra Gurnani Daga. Travelers looking for unique and exciting adventures can choose from a wide variety of travel experiences and activities at Thrillophilia.

In 2009, Chitra Gurnani Daga and her partner Abhishek Daga co-founded Thrillophilia. The couple's love of adventure and travel inspired them to develop a site that would offer memorable experiences for tourists.