India’s women are taking on powerful roles across sectors—from finance and fashion to public policy, sports, and cinema. Yet, despite significant progress, women still face institutional gaps in leadership representation.
That’s why spotlighting the achievements of self-made women is more than just recognition—it’s a statement of possibility.
The W-Power 2025 list by Forbes India highlights trailblazers who have carved a name for themselves through innovation, discipline, and leadership.
Business, Finance, and Governance
These women are steering major corporations, advising global financial systems, and building empires from scratch:
- Gita Gopinath
First Deputy Managing Director, International Monetary Fund
A globally respected economist shaping macroeconomic policy at the highest level. - Kaku Nakhate
India CEO, Bank of America N.A.
Leads one of India’s largest foreign banks, driving investment and strategic growth. - Leena Nair
Global CEO, Chanel
The first Indian to lead the iconic French fashion brand. - Savitha Balachandran
CFO, Tata Technologies
Plays a key role in the company’s global finance and expansion strategy. - Shefali Goradia
Chairperson, Deloitte South Asia
A seasoned tax expert and one of the few women at the helm of a Big Four firm. - Sonia Dasgupta
MD & CEO – Investment Banking, JM Financial
An influential voice in corporate finance and mergers. - Vishakha Mulye
CEO, Aditya Birla Capital Ltd.
Heads one of India’s largest diversified financial services groups.
Creative Powerhouses
India’s cultural and creative sectors continue to be redefined by women breaking new ground:
- Anamika Khanna
Creative Director, Anamika Khanna & AK-OK
Known for merging Indian aesthetics with modern luxury fashion. - Payal Kapadia
Filmmaker
An independent voice in cinema, known for her critically acclaimed works and international festival presence. - Prerna Singh
CEO, Bhansali Productions
Manages one of Bollywood’s most successful production houses. - Sunidhi Chauhan
Singer
A powerful performer with a global fanbase, spanning over two decades. - Rohini Iyer
Founder, Rain Reign Group
A PR and talent strategist shaping public narratives in entertainment.
Sports Icons
These athletes represent discipline, focus, and the power of representation on international stages:
- PV Sindhu
Olympic Badminton Medalist
A two-time Olympic medalist and one of India’s most consistent performers. - Smriti Mandhana
Cricketer
A key figure in women’s cricket, known for her explosive batting. - Manu Bhaker
Shooter
A youth Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medalist.
Science, Health, and Academia
Women are also leading in science, medicine, and mental health:
- Dr Pratima Murthy
Director, NIMHANS
Heads India’s premier mental health institution, advancing research and public policy.
Investment and Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurs and investors on the list are pushing capital into new ventures and social change:
- Renuka Ramnath
Founder & CEO, Multiples Alternate Asset Management
A veteran private equity investor fostering business transformation in India. - Mira Kulkarni
Founder & MD, Forest Essentials
Pioneered luxury Ayurveda and took it to international markets.
BY THE NUMBERS: W-Power 2025 Snapshot
- 3 sportspersons
- Multiple CEOs from global firms
- Strong presence from entertainment and wellness sectors
- Diverse industries, from IMF to independent cinema
- Jury members included experienced professionals from finance and impact sectors
Why W-Power Matters
Despite progress, women still represent a small percentage of senior leadership roles in India:
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In 2023, women held less than 18% of board seats in NSE-listed companies
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The female labor force participation rate remains below 30%
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Access to capital for women-led startups is still disproportionately low
Recognizing successful women isn’t just symbolic—it’s a way to rewrite the narrative and inspire the next generation of leaders.