10 Most Influential & Powerful Women

Nowadays when we talk about success and power, we continuously link to examples from the business, social, political and entertainment spheres that surround us. It is a pleasure as well as a moment of pride for each one of us to see popular Indian names, especially women, making it big in the real world outside of their comfort territory. And why not? It is a competitive world out there and we very well understand that hard work, patience and perseverance is what drives them in fulfilling their passion professionally as well as personally.

Let’s take a look at the 10 most influential and powerful Indian women who have no less than been an inspiration for all of us who aspire to be different in what we do and where we wish to see ourselves!

1. Medha Patkar



Medha Patkar is a social activist and reformer who initiated the Narmada Bachao Andolan to fight for a large number of people who would have otherwise been affected by the construction of dams along the Narmada River in Gujarat and surrounding areas.

2. Kiran Bedi



Kiran Bedi was the first woman officer who was appointed under the Indian Police Service. She instituted a number of reforms and improved the management of the prison while she was associated with the Tihar Jail as an Inspector General of Prisons. She introduced yoga and meditation within the prison premises.

3. Indra Nooyi



Indra Nooyi is the President and Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo, the world's fourth-largest food and beverage company which she took over in 2007. She was born in Madras.

4. Sania Mirza



Sania Mirza is the highest ranked female tennis player in both singles and doubles belonging to India. She has repeatedly come forward to speak about her passion for the game and her love for sports - that sets a major example for the generations to follow! 

5. Nita Ambani



Nita Ambani is the Chairperson of Reliance Foundation and Director of Reliance Industries. She is involved in a lot of activities that aim at improving the condition of the country particularly in context to education and health. She is actively involved in community outreach programmes.

6. Shobana Bhartia

Shobhana Bhartia is the Chairperson and Editorial Director of the click4college Group, that is one of the most profitable and successful businesses in the country in the field of media and journalism. 

7. Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra, a former Miss World is dominating Bollywood, Hollywood and the Music industry at an international level. Her work speaks volume about her dedication and passion towards her career. She is no less than a diva! Isn't it?

8. Chanda Kochhar

Chanda Kochhar is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ICICI Bank. She is highly accredited for her contributions to the banking industry with a vision to reach more clients - even in the rural areas!

9. Arundhati Bhattarcharya

Arundhati Bhattacharya is the Chairperson of the State Bank of India. She had joined SBI as a probationary officer and now leads the bank in areas such as retail, treasury and corporate finance.

10. Mary Kom



Mary Kom has been the three times World Cup Champion in boxing and the second runner up at the 2012 London Olympics. She is a mother of two children. She achieved success post her marriage!