India’s Top 15 Inspiring Entrepreneurs to Look Out For in 2025

Entrepreneurship in India has come a long way—from family-run businesses and corner shops to digital-first startups and globally recognized brands. But what truly makes an entrepreneur stand out today isn’t just revenue or reach—it’s vision, resilience, and the ability to create meaningful impact.

As we head into 2025, we’re seeing a new generation of changemakers who are not only redefining industries but also challenging norms, blending technology with tradition, and solving problems that matter. This list brings together 15 such inspiring individuals from across the country. They come from all walks of life—some are disrupting age-old sectors, while others are building entirely new ones.

What unites them? A relentless drive to push boundaries, uplift communities, and build something that lasts. These are the names to watch, the stories to follow, and the journeys that inspire.

Pankaj Khanna 

Managing Director of Khanna Gems Pvt. Ltd. Visionary leader who has transformed India’s gemstone industry. Since founding the company in 1987, Shri Pankaj Khanna has built Khanna Gems into the country’s most trusted and recognized brand for astrological gemstones. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to transparency, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, he has redefined industry standards with over 100,000 government-certified gemstone SKUs. Under his dynamic leadership, Khanna Gems has embraced an omnichannel presence, offering clients both digital convenience and physical accessibility. His forward-thinking innovations, including team for personalized gemstone recommendations, spiritually energized pieces, and cutting-edge initiatives like the Spiritual Clinic, reflect his deep understanding of both tradition and technology. With a sharp focus on quality, service, and genuine value, Pankaj Khanna has established Khanna Gems as a beacon of trust and excellence in the astrological gemstone market, continuing to set benchmarks for the industry.

Saniya Puri

An Electronics and Communication engineer by qualification, Saniya Puri transformed her passion for travel into LivetoTravel, a luxury travel boutique established in 2019. What began as a personal travel blog quickly gained traction, drawing travelers who craved curated, meaningful experiences.

Spotting a gap in personalized and flexible travel planning, Saniya made the entrepreneurial leap to redefine luxury  not as extravagance, but as freedom, choice, and unforgettable memories. Each LivetoTravel itinerary is custom-built and hand-managed by Saniya, blending her global travel insights with a deep understanding of individual traveler needs.

Under her leadership, LivetoTravel has become a trusted name for bespoke journeys from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, every itinerary is designed to tell a story.Saniya’s belief that authenticity and quality must come before margins sets the tone for the brand. And while her vision drives the business, she credits a passionate and dedicated team whose collective effort ensures that every journey feels like a dream come true.

Sampat Saraswat Bamanwali

A dynamic Indian politician, educationist, author, and social activist from Bikaner, Rajasthan. As the Founder and CEO of Eco Bharat, he is spearheading a tech-driven revolution in urban living. Eco Bharat focuses on enhancing road safety, accident prevention and assistance in emergency situations, and smart parking solutions—bringing innovative technology to the forefront of everyday life. The initiative is designed to empower citizens and transform cities into safer, more efficient spaces. It’s a smart qr sticker solution to make driving safer on the note of “Har Safar ka Humsafar”.

With a vision rooted in “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” Sampat champions unity, social equity, and responsible innovation. He wears multiple hats—as the National President of the SCL Foundation, a Peace Committee Member in the Delhi Minority Commission, and a national panelist on Prasar Bharati, offering insights on critical social issues and also spoken on TEDx platform in Chandigarh University on the topic of Social security.

Driven by a deep sense of purpose, his work spans education, healthcare, environment, and spiritual upliftment. Through Eco Bharat and beyond, Sampat Saraswat is shaping a connected, conscious, and future-ready India.

Dr Nishita K. Sheth

Founder & CEO of DNCC and inLab, and a leading medical professional with over 21 years of expertise in dermatology, skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, cosmetic surgery, and advanced laser treatments. Internationally qualified and widely respected, she has played a pioneering role in transforming India’s skincare and haircare landscape.

At Dr. Nishita’s Cosmetic Clinic (DNCC), she has delivered personalized, science-backed treatments to over 200,000 clients across India. To extend her expertise beyond the clinic, she launched inLab, a one-of-a-kind platform offering customized skincare solutions at home, complete with curated kits and monthly expert check-ins.

Dr. Nishita is also the coauthor of authoritative books on hair transplant and GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate), reflecting her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field. Passionate about precision and patient care, she believes every skin tells a story—and deserves tailored, transformative care.

She continues to empower individuals to feel confident, healthy, and beautiful—every single day.

Jasmeet Arora

A passionate advocate, educator, and changemaker dedicated to empowering children with special needs. Inspired by her niece with Cerebral Palsy, she co-founded the HI 5 Child Development Center (HI 5 CDC) in 2011, offering life-changing therapies, teacher training, and workshops for parents and professionals. Jasmeet leads key initiatives under HI 5 CDC, including Preschool Cradle and Swings, Brain Optimization Programs, and Nursery Teacher Training, all grounded in empathy and evidence-based practices.

A bestselling author of multiple books, she champions inclusive education and developmental support. Jasmeet also plays a leadership role in her family’s business, Marshall Engineering Works, which is now recognized among the top 7 largest companies in its sector in India. Her ability to balance social impact with industrial innovation highlights her vision and drive. She firmly believes that teamwork and small, purposeful actions can create ripples of enduring change.

Ar. Karthik Jeganathan

Founder of Verdant Space Studio, grew up in a family where construction was second nature. Inspired by his father, renowned builder Mr. Jeganathan, Karthik’s early exposure to design and execution ignited his passion for architecture. A graduate in Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), he founded Verdant Space Studio to bridge the long-standing gap between architectural design and flawless execution. The Chennai-based firm offers end-to-end design, interior, and construction services, earning a reputation for innovation and reliability. A pioneer in VR-powered customer journeys, Karthik empowers clients to virtually explore their spaces before construction begins, enhancing clarity and reducing costly revisions. His commitment to sustainable architecture ensures every project maximizes natural light, ventilation, and resource efficiency. With a tech-driven, collaborative approach, he consistently delivers projects on time and within budget. In 2024, Verdant Space Studio was honored as the Best Architecture and Construction Company in Chennai by the Tamil Nadu Business Icon Awards.

Gaurav Batra

A visionary cybersecurity leader, entrepreneur, and influencer with over 18 years of industry experience. He is the Founder & CEO of CyberFrat, a premier platform fostering cybersecurity awareness and collaboration, along with initiatives like CXO Junction, Culsight, and The Digital Kiddo. Recognized as a Times 40 Under 40 Thought Leader, Gaurav has held key cybersecurity leadership roles at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, JP Morgan, Axis Bank, MetLife, and Mondelēz International. 

A certified cybersecurity expert, dynamic trainer, and advisor, he has trained over 100,000 professionals and 6,000+ Chartered Accountants nationwide, covering areas like cybersecurity, digital forensics, ethical hacking, and risk management. His accolades include CISO of the Year (2017–2020) and honours from The Economic Times and Top 100 InfoSec Maestros. With a passion for continuous learning and education, Gaurav is dedicated to advancing cybersecurity awareness and guiding the next generation of leaders in the digital age.

Pavan P G

Founder & CEO of VTP Lounge LLP, is transforming airport dining by blending engineering precision with entrepreneurial vision. A VTU engineering graduate and RIT MBA alumnus, he honed his leadership as RIT’s Graduate Senator before excelling in marketing at eLogic Group (USA). Returning to India, he launched ventures in real estate (PGP Enterprise, VESTAA) and logistics (Waylane Logistics).

Spotting gaps in airport F&B, Pavan founded VTP Lounge, bringing iconic brands like Hard Rock Cafe and Central Tiffin Room to Bengaluru Airport—prioritizing authenticity over generic options. His tech-driven approach ensures efficiency, while expansion plans aim to bridge regional flavors with global tastes.

Pavan’s multidisciplinary edge—engineering problem-solving, MBA strategy, and marketing acumen—fuels his mission: making airports culinary destinations. With AI integration and local brand partnerships on the horizon, VTP Lounge is redefining travel dining in India.From circuits to spices, Pavan’s journey epitomizes innovation at the crossroads of food and travel

Shailesh Thakkar

A visionary entrepreneur and the Founder of FoxFire Events & Activations Pvt. Ltd, a fast-growing corporate events and exhibition company based in Pune. Starting his professional journey at just 15, Shailesh’s passion for innovation and challenges led him to build his business from the ground up — from volunteering at events to transforming his firm into a private limited company by the age of 23. 

A BE IT graduate from Sinhgad College of Engineering, he specializes in client acquisition, operations, and strategic growth. Under his leadership, FoxFire has earned the reputation of being Pune’s Best Event Management Company and has been recognized with the Radio City Visionary Young Leader 2025 title.

Shailesh envisions scaling FoxFire into an SME-listed enterprise with over 250 employees by 2027. Known for his people-first philosophy and strong financial discipline, he lives by the mantra: “Be so busy improving yourself that you have no time to criticise others.”

Shreyansh Jain

A dynamic entrepreneur and trader from Maharashtra, is redefining success through innovation, resilience, and strategic foresight. One of his most groundbreaking ventures is AstroVastu.ai, a pioneering Indian startup that seamlessly integrates Astrology, Vastu, and AI to provide instant and reliable insights. 

As the first platform in India to fuse AI with Lal Kitab, KP Kundli, Feng Shui, Numerology, and Vastu Shastra, AstroVastu.ai delivers highly accurate predictions within seconds. By leveraging insights from ancient texts, the platform ensures speed, authenticity, and data-driven spiritual guidance for modern users. Under Shreyansh’s leadership, AstroVastu.ai is on a fast track to growth, with projections to enter the 100 Cr club by 2026.

With deep roots in the jewelry business, Shreyansh has expanded his reach beyond tradition, trading gold, silver, and diamonds on both local and global scales. His expertise in combining craftsmanship with modern business acumen has set him apart in a competitive marketplace. Beyond jewelry, Shreyansh is an angel investor and mentor, funding and guiding startups across diverse sectors, including EV tech and gaming. His hands-on approach ensures these businesses not only receive capital but also benefit from his strategic insights.

With an impressive portfolio spanning jewelry, FMCG distribution, trading, and cutting-edge tech startups, Shreyansh continues to inspire emerging entrepreneurs. His journey exemplifies how passion, adaptability, and a vision for collective growth can create a lasting legacy. As he paves new paths in 2025, Shreyansh Jain is undoubtedly one to watch.

Dr. Mahika Kohli

Renowned Psychic, Lightworker, and Intuitive Healer who is committed to changing lives for the better through holistic and spiritual well-being. She is skilled in Energy and Intuitive Healing, Access Consciousness, Akashic Intelligence, Reiki, Angel Therapy, Crystal Healing, and others, and elegantly integrates varied modalities to lead individuals to harmony and purpose. A renowned Intuitive Tarologist and Angel Card Reader, Dr. Mahika’s thoughtful readings have shed light upon many pathways and encouraged people towards positivity and purpose.

 

With a Ph.D. in Psychology specializing in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health, she is also certified as an NLP Coach, Mindfulness and Meditation Trainer, Spiritual Life Coach, and Law of Attraction Facilitator. Internationally trained, she is an expert in helping individuals overcome issues in behaviour, relationships, finances, and health.

Through mentoring and workshops, Dr. Mahika inspires people to tap into inner energies, manifest miracles, and make spirituality simple, a joyous part of daily life.

Mr. Jaideep Parashar

A dynamic entrepreneur, investor, author, researcher, and keynote speaker, driving innovation in Artificial Intelligence and business strategy. He is the Founder and Director of ReThynk AI Innovation and Research Pvt. Ltd., where he leads transformative AI projects addressing complex business challenges. With a robust academic background, including a B.Tech, M.Tech, and certifications from IIT Delhi and the London School of Business Administration, Jaideep bridges the worlds of technology and strategic management. 

His professional journey spans over a decade, from management roles in Public Sector Undertakings to becoming an AI-driven entrepreneur. As an investor at Vista Liberata, he also shapes branding solutions for businesses. A prolific author, his books on career growth, startups, AI, and personal branding empower professionals in today’s fast-paced world. A fitness enthusiast, avid reader, and lifelong learner, Jaideep embodies discipline, innovation, and leadership in every endeavour he pursues.

Dr. Seby Varghese

Shaping the Future of Dentistry with Innovation, Empowerment, and Impact. In a world where healthcare often leans toward the conventional, Dr. Seby Varghese is redefining what it means to be a dental professional in the 21st century. Introducing Facets- A facial & Dental Aesthetic center in Kerala in 2009 as his initial venture & As the Managing Director of Team Dental Private Limited, Dr. Seby Varghese is not just leading clinics — he’s leading a movement.

At the heart of his mission lies a two-fold vision: unlocking the latent potential of young dental professionals and clinics, and empowering patients to demand the quality care they deserve. With his upcoming  pioneering platforms, he is creating a new ecosystem — one where digital innovation, patient education, and ethical practice go hand in hand.From launching AI-based treatment planning tools to designing national referral networks and organizing National award winning  social impact campaigns with council on dental health of Indian Dental association, Dr.Seby Varghese seamlessly blends technology, public health, and entrepreneurship.

What sets him apart is his unwavering belief in balance — between growth and ethics, between innovation and tradition, and between the clinician and the community.Whether it’s guiding pediatric facial growth, streamlining digital consents, or inspiring hundreds of clinics to modernize and collaborate, Dr. Seby Varghese is not just a rising star — he’s a rising system-changer.

Madhu Bandi

Mission-driven business leader revolutionizing India’s wellness space through technology and mindful living. The founder of Positive Techno Services, he is at the helm of a pioneering movement that unites technology, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. His signature platform, Buildpositiveness.com, equips individuals and organizations with handpicked digital courses, meditation coaching, stress management training, and corporate wellness retreats—democratizing well-being in the digital era. 

From modest origins, Madhu has developed Positive Techno Services into a vibrant software technology startup. His vision stretched to VibeUpDigital, a marketing effort assisting brands in enhancing their digital footprint, making him a changemaker in the tech-for-good sector. 

With deep roots in mindfulness, innovation, and community development, Madhu is transforming both personal and corporate wellness in India. Recognized as one of India’s 15 Inspiring Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2025, his success serves as an indication that technology, when directed for a purpose, can change lives.

Musarrat Husain

Founder & CEO of Hackaback Technologies, a company at the forefront of industrial transformation. Renowned for his vision in smart manufacturing, Musarrat is driving innovation through HAB.I.B.I.—a modular, AI-powered platform that bridges legacy systems with next-generation technologies like OPC UA, MQTT, digital twins, and blockchain audit trails.

With a strong foundation in SAP MII and a track record of solving real-world shop floor challenges, Musarrat blends engineering depth with systems thinking. His work is helping manufacturers move from data chaos to clarity—creating agile, connected, and future-ready operations.

Recognized as a thought leader in Industry 4.0, Musarrat continues to push the boundaries of what factories can achieve when intelligence meets integration.