Powered by: TOP-50 Indian Luxury’s Most Powerful Women - 2026
Some of us are born twice The first time for the world The second time for ourselves Some of us are born twice The first time for the world The second time for ourselves
PROLOGUE The luxury industry, despite its dampening sentiment abroad in the midst of geo-political and economic downturns, remained a year where Big Luxury came knocking on India’s doors. Luxury empires and brands from the West renewed their focus on India’s market in 2025. It was at the behest of many women who find mention in these pages, the tastemakers (and kingmakers) of India’s retail landscape. Our annual list on the most powerful women in luxury is a bird’s eye-view on India’s luxury community, from entrepreneurs to management executives who have steered the industry ahead and established India’s homegrown luxury environment. We take a moment to celebrate them here. Payel Majumdar Upreti — Editor — Founders — Marzban Patel & Anita Patel • CFO — Sunando Roy • Director — Indu Joshi Editor — Payel Majumdar Upreti • Editorial Consultant — Geetika Sachdev and N. Deepali • Creative Director — Muhammad Jaan Faruqui Advertising Sales: Regional Managers — MUMBAI (022- 68468500) — Katty Gia (09870532295) • Lamont Dias (09167414988) DELHI (011- 45625810) — Sr. General Manager (North) — Asha Augustine (09818280431) Kerala — Sanjai Krishnan (09414069321) • Manager Marketing Services — Salim B. • Client Servicing Manager — Reshma Malvankar This magazine is printed by and produced by Mediascope Representation India LLP. Opinions herein are the writers’ and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mediascope. Editorial enquiries concerning the reproduction of articles, advertising and circulation should be addressed to: LuxeBook, Mediascope Representation India LLP., 51, Doli Chamber, Arthur Bunder Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400005, India. Material in this publication may not be reproduced, whether in part or in whole, without the consent of the publisher. LuxeBook is printed at Silverpoint Press Pvt. Ltd., A-403, TTC Industrial Area, Mahape, Navi Mumbai- 400709. Letters to the editor: Write in with your comments, suggestions and ideas to luxebook@mediascope.co.in SOCIAL MEDIA www.facebook.com/luxebook.in https://www.instagram.com/luxebookindia https://twitter.com/luxebookindia Indian Luxury’s Most Powerful Women - 2026 celebrates their success | 2 MUMBAI : THE TAJ MAHAL PALACE, APOLLO BUNDER | +91 90049 25432 SURAT : PREMIER PLAZA, DUMAS ROAD, PIPLOD | +91 72088 13488 INFO@DIAINDIA.COM | DIAPRECIOUS.COM | @DIAPRECIOUSWATCHES RANGER MUMBAI
| 5 Aditi Dugar began her career in finance before pivoting in 2012 to pursue her passion for food. She launched Sage and Saffron, Mumbai’s first boutique catering company. She opened Masque, India’s first tasting-menuonly restaurant championing local produce in 2016. Today, Masque is ranked among the country’s best, holding the Best Restaurant in India title at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for four consecutive years—the first on the list led by a woman restaurateur. In 2024, it debuted on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants long list, and Dugar received La Liste’s Innovation Award 2025. She has further expanded with Paradox, a chic cocktail bar, as well as TwentySeven Bakehouse and TwentySeven Pizza & Bakes. For Dugar, luxury is thoughtfulness — “ …in the little details you don’t always notice at first, but quietly change the way you feel.” Her approach to leadership is guided by “vision, curiosity, and courage, and not lineage”. Clarity of purpose, the right team, and deep listening,” she says, “turn ideas into enduring experiences.” Among her most cherished heirlooms are a 150-year-old tiger tooth and a jadau bracelet, “which carry many stories”, passed down through three generations. She recalls Peru as an unforgettable destination — “a top experience for the mind and soul.” Off-duty, she unwinds with board games, creative sketching, and her go-to cocktail at Paradox: Tap #4 with tequila, charred pineapple, and chilli. Jewellery is more than adornment; it’s a story, a heritage, and a form of self-expression. At the heart of this evolution is Akanksha Arora, CEO of Tribe Amrapali, who has reimagined Indian fine jewellery for the modern generation. With a BA from the University of Rajasthan and training at IIGJ Mumbai in design, gemology, and diamond grading, Arora paired expertise with vision. In 2008, she joined the family legacy through Amrapali Jewels and soon launched Tribe Amrapali in 2013, a digital-first platform making handcrafted, heritage-inspired jewelry accessible and wearable. Her leadership transformed it into a nationwide brand with 35-plus outlets, flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi, and a global presence. A traveller and art lover, Arora draws inspiration from cultures and history, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics. Balancing motherhood and leadership, she continues to craft a legacy where every piece tells a story of artistry, heritage, and timeless elegance. “LuxeBook captures the essence of luxury by highlighting the people, stories, and details that lend it meaning.” “My grandmother’s old silver jewellery box is my most treasured heirloom. It’s filled with delicate pieces she wore every day, each carrying memories and stories.” Aditi Dugar Director & Co-Founder, Urban Gourmet India | 4 Akanksha Arora CEO and Founder, Tribe Amrapali
Dr Alka Nishar has transformed the way India experiences luxury fashion, turning Aza Fashions into a haven for both designers and discerning clients. A multifaceted entrepreneur, she holds an MBBS degree from the Grant Medical College and an MBA from Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. Previously, she served as a founder-director of Hexaware Technologies. Since launching Aza Fashions in 2005, Dr Nishar has built a space where India’s finest homegrown talent can shine. With 11 luxurious stores across Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Surat, and a presence in the US, Aza has become a trusted authority in the fashion world. Dr Nishar’s vision extends beyond aesthetics. She introduced practices like timely payments to support designers’ growth and fostered a workplace where 52% of Aza’s 400-plus team are women. The brand is a proponent of timeless Indian couture, visible through its association with iconic names like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Tarun Tahiliani, and Anamika Khanna. “Luxury is not just about price or exclusivity, it’s about emotion. For me, it lies in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the feeling it evokes when you experience it.” | 9 “Santorini is one of my favourite destinations for its breathtaking beauty and Mykonos for its vibrant yet luxurious energy.” For Angelique Dhama, rugs are more than décor; they are canvasses of culture, craftsmanship and heritage. As President of Obeetee Carpets, she has transformed a century-old weaving house into a global luxury brand, bringing India’s artisanal legacy to the world stage. Joining in 2013, Dhama leveraged her two decades in European luxury to reimagine Obeetee, expanding international reach, opening flagship stores, and cultivating a clientele that spans continents. Her vision is rooted in the belief that Indian craft deserves to be celebrated as luxury, not just tradition. Campaigns like Proud To Be Indian and collaborations with designers such as Tarun Tahiliani and JJ Valaya elevated carpets into heirlooms and gifts that mark life’s milestones. By blending couture sensibilities with Bhadohi’s weaving heritage, she has repositioned rugs as enduring symbols of art, pride, and celebration. Under Dhama’s leadership, Obeetee doesn’t just make carpets; it tells India’s story in the language of global luxury. | 8 Dr Alka Nishar Founder, Aza Fashions Angelique Dhama President, Obeetee Carpets
| 10 Anita Dongre is one of India’s most prolific designers, shaping fashion for over three decades. From launching her first brand in 1995 from her apartment balcony to building a USD 60 million fashion empire with over 100 stores across India and global outposts in New York and Dubai, Dongre has shaped a mindful, modern aesthetic for Indian women. Her labels–Anita Dongre Couture, Grassroot, AND, and Global Desi–blend handcrafted traditions with contemporary design. An advocate of Fashion for Good, her approach to business is purpose driven—bringing economies back to rural India while empowering women artisans and modernising crafts. A vegan and a member of PETA, Dongre envisioned a headquarters that was environmentally sustainable. Nestled in the quaint hills of Navi Mumbai, House of Anita Dongre’s headquarters is a 100,000sqft. green space that has been ergonomically designed. Recognised by the World Economic Forum and Forbes, she continues to champion craft, sustainability, and women’s empowerment in Indian fashion. Her creations are adorned by global icons including Beyoncé, Kate Middleton, and Priyanka Chopra. “Luxury to me is always timeless, not a trend. I do love seeing brides rewear and restyle their wedding looks.” Anita Dongre Founder, Chairwoman, and Chief Creative Officer of House of Anita Dongre
Anjali Mehra has a rare talent for turning luxury into an experience that lingers long after a journey ends. Over three decades, she has shaped the narratives of some of the world’s most prestigious hospitality brands across India, the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. She joined The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in 2020, quickly rising from Vice President, Marketing to Chief Brand Officer and Senior Vice President, Marketing, leading transformative initiatives that redefined the brand’s global presence. Beginning her career in aviation, Mehra found her true calling in hotels, holding leadership roles at Starwood Hotels, Marriott International, Hilton, and Taj Hotels. After a brief entrepreneurial and personal sabbatical, she returned to The Leela with a renewed vision, overseeing brand strategy, communications, hotel repositioning, subbrand creation, and loyalty programmes. A passionate writer, traveller, and trend watcher, Mehra blends insight, creativity, and elegance to craft experiences that resonate across cultures and markets. “Luxury, to me, is about meaning. It’s the ability to choose quality over quantity, to surround yourself with things and experiences that carry intention.” | 13 Born to a North Indian, Sikh family and raised amidst the lush greenery of North-East India, Chef Amninder Sandhu has a love for food that is akin to devotion. With her career spanning over two decades, Sandhu has championed the art of slow cooking using traditional techniques, open fire, no seed oil cooking methods and honest recipes that pay homage to India and our rich produce. Today, she helms many India forward projects in the country. She founded Bawri in Goa in 2023 followed by its Mumbai launch six months later. She is also the Founder Partner–Dining Experiences at Tipai — a boutique wildlife escape in the heart of Maharashtra. Earlier in 2025, she founded Kikli in New Delhi, a restaurant that celebrates the vibrant landscape of Chadh Da Punjab and Lehenda Punjab. That’s not all. She is also at the helm of Bliss Food Experiences, a luxury wedding catering company. Over the course of the past decade, Sandhu has won several accolades, including the Best Lady Chef Award in 2016 from India’s Ministry of Tourism. In 2019, she was endearingly labelled “The Girl With Gold In Her Fingers” by legendary chef Marco Pierre White. She was also featured in the 50 Best Discovery list by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. “My take on responsible luxury is rooted in empowering women, uplifting local communities, and preserving the natural world.” | 12 Anjali Mehra Executive Vice President, Brand and Communications, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts Amninder Sandhu Award-winning Chef & Culinary Innovator; Founding Partner – Kiklo, Bawri, Tipai by Wildlife Luxuries and Barbet & Pals
Aparna Kaushik is a leading architect and interior designer renowned for shaping India’s ultra-luxury residential landscape with timeless elegance and contemporary refinement. As founder of the Aparna Kaushik Design Group, she approaches each project as a narrative, fusing art, architecture, and cultural sensibilities to craft spaces that resonate with both form and function. Her portfolio spans expansive estates and intimate lifestyle homes, integrating architecture, interiors, furniture, lighting, landscaping, and product design into cohesive, bespoke environments. A former state-level skating champion with an early fascination for molecular structures, Kaushik blends precision, creativity, and human-centric design philosophy, where the physiology of space meets the psychology of its inhabitants. Collaborating with international designers and ateliers, she infuses her work with global relevance while maintaining a distinct personal vision. Every project reflects her ethos of symmetry, clarity, and balance, creating not just homes but immersive experiences that celebrate beauty, functionality, and human connection. “LuxeBook is a wonderful curation of really great minds, luxury, art and crafts.” AHMEDABAD | DELHI | HYDERABAD | MUMBAI | LOS ANGELES www.shyamalandbhumika.com | 16 Aparna Kaushik Founder and Principal Architect, Aparna Kaushik Design Group
| 18 In a world where food is often just fuel, Avni and Ashni Biyani have turned it into an experience, a story, and a journey. From wandering through global markets and exploring kitchens across continents to understanding what makes a meal memorable, the sisters have always been fascinated by the intersection of culture, taste, and design. That curiosity became the seed for Foodstories, their gourmet food platform, where every store, product, and online experience is crafted to delight and inspire. Today, Foodstories operates in Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, with plans to expand to two more cities and open six additional stores in the next two years. Avni shapes product innovation and experiential retail, introducing new trends and redefining how discerning consumers engage with food. She also leads Think9 Consumer Technologies, mentoring digital-first brands such as Sorrentina and Beauty By BiE. Ashni focuses on operational excellence, organisational culture, and building profitable, future-ready businesses, having previously steered Future Consumer Limited and founded Future Ideas, a consumer insights and design firm. With deep roots in liberal arts, design, and global culture, Avni and Ashni’s blend of strategic vision with a flair for storytelling is shaping India’s future of luxury and lifestyle. “We believe true luxury lies in awareness–in knowing what we’re eating, where it comes from, and how it nourishes our body.” Beate Mauder Kakkar has built a career that bridges continents and luxury brands. Since 1995, she has worked with hospitality brands in India—first from Hong Kong with Rafael Hotels and Aman Resorts — driving sales, PR and communications in the booming outbound travel market, until she moved to Mumbai in 2002. From celebrity visits and film shoots to strategic alliances, she shaped how global hospitality brands connected with Indian audiences. After leading marketing at Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces as Vice President, she went on to establish INDIVA Marketing, drawing on her global experience with Le Meridien, The Oriental Bangkok, and Leading Hotels of the World. On business, she is clear-eyed: success comes from “structure, clarity, hard work with passion and a strong sense of loyalty.” Entrepreneurs, she says, succeed by “setting great goals, starting humble, and relying on themselves.” The trend she sees lasting? “A new work-life balance—today’s true luxury.” For Mauder, luxury is “grace, space, and time.” Her most treasured possessions are her grandparents’ silver cutlery and Meissen crockery. Travel memories linger from La Mamounia in Marrakech and La Sologne in France. Evenings are best spent “at the piano, in the gym, or cycling in nature with family and friends.” Her go-to drink? A refined Chevalier Montrachet or, unmistakably, champagne. “LuxeBook is a great source of information across multiple sectors.” Avni and Ashni Biyani Co-founders, Foodstories | 19 Beate Mauder Kakkar Founder & Managing Director, Indiva Marketing
| 20 Dildeep Kalra is a dynamic business leader and the driving force behind brand strategy, marketing, and operations at Massive Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. Since 2012, she has played a key leadership role in scaling the group’s portfolio of award-winning dining concepts across India and global markets. With a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication from Punjab University, Kalra blends creative insight with operational discipline. Her core strengths lie in shaping brand identity, overseeing cross-functional teams, and ensuring a consistent guest experience across all touchpoints. She leads with a deep focus on quality control, HR management, international partnerships, and compliance — ensuring that each venue upholds the highest standards of excellence. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Dildeep is actively involved in every aspect of the business — from tasting menus and supervising visual merchandising to driving marketing campaigns and team culture. Her leadership style combines precision, consistency, and a strong aesthetic sensibility rooted in customer-centric thinking. Beyond the boardroom, Dildeep is passionate about painting, cooking, cycling, and interior design — interests that inform her holistic approach to hospitality and experience creation. “Luxury, to me, is the privilege of time, the freedom to pause, to move at your own rhythm without the rush of urgency.” “Luxury is not about excess, it’s about essence and the quiet confidence of something created with intention, artistry, and soul.” Dimple Fouzdar is the woman breathing new life into India’s perfume heritage. As founder of Maison de Fouzdar, she draws from a lineage steeped in history. Her ancestry traces back to a revered commander-in-chief in Sher Shah Suri’s court, who, in a fateful union, married a Persian woman renowned for her mastery of aromatic arts. Today, she transforms this centuries-old legacy into contemporary olfactory masterpieces. Each fragrance is a labour of love—carefully blended, patiently cured, and perfected to capture the essence of luxury, memory, and identity. Her creations are not mere perfumes; they are heirlooms, evoking elegance, refinement, and timeless allure. With an eye for detail and a deep respect for tradition, Fouzdar has positioned Maison de Fouzdar as India’s first niche luxury fragrance house, where history whispers through every note, and scent becomes a personal signature of power and artistry. Dildeep Kalra Director, Massive Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. | 21 Dimple Fouzdar Founder, Maison de Fouzdar Parfums
| 22 “My mother’s handwoven Banarasi saree is my most prized possession. It reminds me of our heritage and the enduring beauty of Indian craftsmanship.” Gazal Gupta stands at the forefront of modern Indian couture, and is known for weaving together heritage and contemporary sophistication with effortless grace. An artist at heart and a storyteller through fabric, she brings India’s rich textile and craft traditions to life through intricate hand embroidery, luxurious materials, and silhouettes that are both timeless and deeply individualistic. Her eponymous label celebrates emotion, craftsmanship, and artistry, creating ensembles that transcend trends and exude elegance. Spanning couture, prêt, and bespoke creations, Gupta’s work reflects a vision of luxury that is rooted in tradition yet resonant with today’s sensibilities. Over the years, she has become a name synonymous with understated opulence, dressing discerning brides and celebrities who value authenticity yet want to look striking on their big day. With her creative vision and an unwavering respect for craft, Gazal Gupta continues to shape a unique narrative for Indian couture—one that honours its past while reimagining its future. Gazal Gupta Founder, Gazal Gupta
“LuxeBook is a curator of luxury’s evolving story in India and beyond.” Jaya Asokan works at the intersection of art, design, and luxury—redefining how India engages with contemporary creativity. With over two decades of experience spanning the worlds of art, culture, fashion, and design, she has been instrumental in repositioning the fair, deepening international participation, and building partnerships that bridge India’s creative economy with the global stage. A Fine Arts graduate with a master’s from Parsons School of Design, New York, Asokan’s career includes key roles at Saffronart and leading luxury retail ventures across India and the US. Beyond the boardroom, she mentors young professionals and supports grant-making organisations such as the Fulbright Scholar Program, advocating for diversity and opportunity in the arts. For Asokan, luxury is not about opulence but discernment—“the ability to value craftsmanship, authenticity, and timeless experiences”. Her heirlooms—her grandmother’s silk saris and vintage gold bangles—embody that belief. She champions sustainability and conscious consumption as the future of luxury, where artisanship and integrity take centre stage. In quieter moments, she finds balance in soft jazz, chamomile tea, and a good book. Her mantra for success? “Listen deeply, build genuine relationships, and never compromise on integrity.” In a world chasing trends, Asokan remains anchored in authenticity—luxury’s rarest form. | 25 “LuxeBook beautifully narrates the story of luxury in a way that is authentic, relatable, and truly inspiring.” A luminary in the realm of luxury hospitality—Jui Kulkarni Sharma has been at the forefront of preserving the cultural tapestry of Rajasthan with an undying passion. Her presence for over a decade in this industry has earned her respect and recognition from some of the veterans in this space. Sharma’s childhood was spent amidst the opulent landscapes of the Middle East. This experience was instrumental in cultivating an appreciation for the finer things in life. Her academic pursuits led her to the prestigious halls of MIT Pune, where she honed her intellect and passion for the world of technology. In 2000, she found herself in the coastal state of Goa—where a new chapter in her career unfolded through her involvement in the pre-opening of The Majestic GOA. The turning point in her career was when she embarked on a journey with Le Meridien in Jaipur, in 2001. Sharma spearheaded the project coordination for the property. In 2007, she unveiled Fairmont Jaipur. From its inception, she poured her heart and soul into the property— within five years, it emerged as a jewel in the crown of luxury hotels. She once again partnered with Accor to introduce India to the iconic Raffles brand in Udaipur. This exclusive island property of 21 acres, with its panoramic views of the Aravallis and the Udai Sagar Lake, has become a sanctuary for travellers from around the world. Raffles Jaipur, the latest addition to the Raffles Hotels and Resorts portfolio, brings a modern reimagining of regal palace living to Rajasthan’s Pink City. | 24 Jaya Asokan Fair Director, India Art Fair Jui Kulkarni Sharma Director, Triton Hotels and Resorts
“Luxury, to me, is being able to live life on my own terms. It’s the absolute freedom to make choices that align with my happiness and purpose.” At 22, when life grounded her with a cancer diagnosis, Kanika Tekriwal decided she’d spend the rest of it taking flight, literally. What began as a dream during her recovery became JetSetGo, India’s leading private aviation company. It reimagined how private jets are managed, chartered, and experienced. With no legacy to lean on, Tekriwal built her runway from scratch–armed with vision, farsightedness, and an unshakable belief in possibility. Today, she helms one of India’s largest private fleets, making the skies more accessible, transparent, and customer-first than ever before. Recognised by Forbes 30 Under 30 and BBC 100 Women, Tekriwal isn’t just a name in aviation. She’s a story of resilience that continues to soar. Through every takeoff, she reminds us that sometimes, turbulence is just the beginning of flight. She believes, that luxury is not about wearing logos and buying things everyone’s crazy about. “It’s about wearing what makes me happy, wearing what brings a smile to my face.” | 27 “LuxeBook is a beautiful space where craftsmanship and contemporary luxury meet in conversation.” For Kavita Chaudhary, true luxury lies in authenticity — “in doing things the right way, without shortcuts or compromise”. As Design Director at Jaipur Rugs, she furthers her father NK Chaudhary’s vision of empowering artisans, believing every weaver is an artist. Her groundbreaking initiative Manchaha—meaning “what the heart desires” — allows rural women to weave their emotions into design. “These women who were once invisible are now winning global awards and adorning celebrity homes. Every award they win is a small crack in the glass ceiling”. Alongside her father, she co-founded Freedom Manchaha, helping jail inmates in Rajasthan find identity through art. Together, they’ve impacted over 70,000 artisans across 600 villages, proving that design can be a bridge to dignity. Her design label Kavi extends this philosophy—blending craftsmanship with contemporary design and earning her the German Design Award, America’s Magnificent Rug Award, and the distinction of being the first Indian designer to win Europe’s Carpet Design Award. Grounded in values, she cherishes her father’s old orange diary—“his handwritten reflections remind me where I come from.” Evenings are spent with her daughter and under the night sky. A glass of Bikaner chach, she says, “is refinement in its purest form”. “Luxury today,” she adds, “is about purity — of craft, of intention, and of the planet.” | 26 Kanika Tekriwal Founder, JetSetGo Kavita Chaudhary Design Director, Jaipur Rugs & Founder, Kavi
“LuxeBook is the ultimate insider into living it right!” Khushnooma Kapadia has spent over two decades shaping one of the world’s most influential hospitality brands. Since joining Marriott in 2004, she has been instrumental in building brand equity, driving partnerships and collaborations, and steering media, digital, and loyalty strategies across 18 brands and over 170 hotels in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. A decisive and action-oriented leader, she oversees a team of 100+ marketing professionals, leading with clarity, creativity, and an unwavering focus on business excellence. Her journey—spanning finance, communications, and hospitality—reflects an agile mind that thrives on reinvention and setting new benchmarks. To Kapadia, true luxury lies in “quiet restraint—being one with yourself and letting your confidence shine through.” Her most treasured heirloom is a bangle gifted by her grandmother, a reminder of timeless connection and grace. A lover of books and tea, she finds calm in simple, meaningful rituals. She acknowledges that while the “glass ceiling in luxury is cracking, it still holds in parts. Representation at leadership levels still needs more than just inclusion and visibility; it needs action,” and champions real action toward gender parity in leadership. Her definition of enduring luxury is personal time—“creating memories, shared laughter, and the joy of just being present.” Her advice to professionals: have clarity, set defined goals, and work cohesively to achieve them. | 29 “Luxury needs to be responsible. One needs to understand and value what went into something they buy.” A cherished patron and mentor to the arts, Lavina Baldota provides curatorial patronage for the promotion of arts and crafts through her platform, ‘Santati Then Now Next’. Committed to the preservation of crafts and textiles, she has been working with various artists and artisans across India for over two decades. As the custodian of the Abheraj Baldota Foundation, she carries forth the Gandhian values of trusteeship and service that form the backbone of the Foundation. With an education in textiles and fashion— her aesthetics in the arts, though rooted in preserving the authenticity of the past, and being in sync with the present—are constantly pushing design boundaries to showcase the magnificent possibilities of the future. Her art platform is thus aptly named Santati (or Continuum) Then.Now. Next. She launched her curatorial endeavour with Santati Mahatma Gandhi. Then.Now. Next, in 2019. The exhibition presented the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi through unique collaborations with multidisciplinary artists, sharing their perception of the Mahatma through the lens of their art. This exhibition opened at the National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, in October 2019 and travelled to various museums across the country and beyond, including Melbourne in Australia. She recently showcased the lesser known textiles of Karnataka through a survey exhibition ‘Pampa: Textiles of Karnataka’ in Hampi. What’s her most prized possession? “A 400 count khadi jamdani sari, which is so beautiful and light.” | 28 Khushnooma Kapadia Vice President – Marketing, South Asia at Marriott International Inc. Lavina Baldota Art Curator and Patron
“LuxeBook is the compass for a modern connoisseur, navigating a world of luxury defined not by excess, but by authentic narratives.” Michelle Poonawalla is a rare blend of business leader, artist, and philanthropist. With creativity in her DNA— her grandfather Jehangir Vazifdar was a celebrated architect—she brings artistry to every venture, from immersive installations at the Saatchi Gallery to global initiatives on climate change and conservation. “Luxury is about unparalleled craftsmanship and authenticity,” she says. “True luxury is having the freedom to invest in something unique, whether it’s a timeless piece of art, a vintage car with a storied history, or a beautifully crafted design that speaks to your soul.” Beyond art, she drives the Poonawalla Group’s ventures in renewable energy, wellness beverages, and luxury real estate, while leading philanthropic initiatives in education, healthcare, and heritage preservation. Her most cherished heirlooms—a grandfather’s painting and a vintage family car—symbolise legacy and passion. Grounded yet visionary, she champions quiet luxury, embraces vision, resilience, and adaptability as hallmarks of successful entrepreneurship, and remains optimistic about breaking glass ceilings for women in leadership. London’s charm and energy make it a city she always returns to, and after a busy day, she often unwinds with her husband, Yohan, over a fine cigar. “A classic Champagne is a symbol of celebration and a reminder of the refined luxury I so deeply appreciate,” she adds. | 31 “LuxeBook is a thoughtful curator of the luxury world, spotlighting heritage, craft, and the visionaries shaping what it means to live well today.” Mira Kulkarni redefined Indian beauty when she founded Forest Essentials in 2000, pioneering ‘Luxury Ayurveda.’ At a time when the market offered only mass-produced Ayurvedic products, she envisioned formulations that were pure and pleasurable to use. Drawing on her deep knowledge of natural ingredients and time-tested formulas, she worked with Vedic scholars and local communities to create products from fresh herbs, cold-pressed oils, medicinal roots, and precious flowers. Today, Forest Essentials is India’s leading luxury beauty brand, with over 175 boutiques and international presence in London, Dubai, Bahrain, and Kuwait, while also supplying to iconic hotels. For Kulkarni, luxury transcends indulgence. “True luxury must always stand for quality, ethics, and purpose. It tells a story of where it comes from and honours the people and traditions behind it,” she says. It is the purity of ingredients, care in preparation, and the mindful ritual of use. Conscious luxury, she adds, is the trend here to stay: knowing where products come from, who makes them, and how. A clear sense of purpose, attention to detail, and learning from artisans, customers, and mistakes, she believes, sets entrepreneurs apart. She finds refinement in simplicity—a warm herbal tea—and draws inspiration from Uttarakhand, where her first unit was set up. Weeknights are for gentle massages, nourishing creams, a candle, and a good book. Her decade-old watch holds immense emotional value: “It has accompanied me through pivotal moments, building Forest Essentials, making challenging decisions, and moments of reflection.” | 30 Michelle Poonawalla Director, Poonawalla Group, Managing Director, Poonawalla Engineering Group, Interior & Architectural Designer, Artist, and Philanthropist Mira Kulkarni Chairperson, Forest Essentials
“LuxeBook is a window into the world of luxury.” In the heart of Maheshwar—where looms have sung for centuries—Mira Sagar found not just a craft but her calling. The founder of VAYA, a label that lives its philosophy “Weaving Heritage”, Sagar blends passion, authenticity, and craftsmanship with storytelling. “Success in a business working with weavers and artisans,” she says, “comes from blending passion, authenticity, and quality with storytelling.” Her journey began in 1990, when she volunteered with a non-profit supporting Maheshwar’s weavers. What began as curiosity soon became commitment. Immersed in the rhythm of the looms and the grace of the women who wove beside her, Sagar learned every stage—from yarn selection to marketing—creating textiles that carried dignity and purpose. “True luxury,” Sagar reflects, “is the comfort of knowing every handwoven textile or handmade object I own carries a story within its threads.” While she admits, “there is most certainly a glass ceiling in the luxury industry,” she believes passion and purpose set true entrepreneurs apart. For Sagar, sustainability isn’t a passing trend—it’s a way of life. Her own treasures include heirloom jewellery passed down from her mother and grandmother. A lover of refinement, Sagar often unwinds with a glass of wine and the company of family and friends. Her most unforgettable travel memory is the beautiful Maasai Mara National Reserve, a region of preserved savannah wilderness in southwestern Kenya. | 33 “I usually prefer a mimosa when I want something light and refreshing, but a glass of wine is always my go-to.” “Create heirlooms, not trends”. For designer Mrunalini Rao, this isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a promise stitched into every piece she creates. Choosing fashion over medicine, she followed her heart from NIFT to founding her eponymous label in 2014. Based in Hyderabad, label Mrunalini Rao celebrates India’s artistic legacy through lustrous silks, sculpted silhouettes, and embroidery so intricate it feels like poetry in thread. Each creation begins as a blank canvas, taking shape slowly under the skilled hands of artisans who preserve age-old crafts like zardozi, resham, and appliqué. Her designs breathe timelessness, deeply Indian yet effortlessly modern. The brand’s serene white stores in Hyderabad and Delhi reflect that same spirit: spaces where craftsmanship speaks louder than fashion’s fleeting noise. For Rao, true luxury lies not in excess, but in emotion; the kind that endures, generation after generation. | 32 Mira Sagar Founder, Vaya Weaving Heritage Mrunalini Rao Founder, Mrunalini Rao
“LuxeBook is a chronicle of how India perceives, shapes, and redefines luxury in its own voice.” Chef Niyati Rao’s work at her restaurant Ekaa has broken new ground, redefining the dining experience with inspiration drawn from her extensive travels and culinary journeys. Trained at the Taj Group of Hotels (IHCL), she honed her skills at Mumbai’s finest restaurants—The Zodiac Grill, Wasabi by Morimoto, and A Reverie— before a transformative stint at Noma in Copenhagen, hailed as the World’s Best Restaurant. Returning to Mumbai in 2020, she channelled those insights into creating Ekaa—a restaurant inspired by people, cultures, and ingredients, shaped by seasons, childhood memories, and her team’s shared journeys. KMC and Bombay Daak followed soon after. “Luxury is all about thoughtfulness—the detail, intention, and craft that elevates an experience. It’s less about excess and more about meaning,” she reflects. That philosophy defines Ekaa, where sustainability, responsibility, and authenticity form the core of her vision. Her innovative approach has earned her the No. 5 spot on Culinary Culture Co.’s FoodSuperstars: India’s Top 30 Chefs 2024. Off the pass, Chef Rao treasures heirloom sarees from her mother and grandmother—“not just garments, but stories and experiences woven in fabric.” She draws inspiration from Tokyo’s precision and artistry, Munich’s balance of tradition and modernity, and evenings spent cooking with her partner Sagar, cats nearby, unwinding with Korean barley tea—“soothing, earthy, sometimes cold with lots of ice.” Her mantra: “Listen deeply, stay curious, and always respect the people you work with. Authenticity is your greatest strength.” | 35 “Luxury is an emotion which can be felt but never fully described. Anything crafted with time-honoured skills, a sustainable ethos and steeped in mindfulness.” At just 34, fourth-generation entrepreneur Palak Shah is reimagining Indian textiles for the global luxury stage. As founder and CEO of Ekaya Banaras, she transforms centuries-old Banarasi craftsmanship into contemporary, high-end handlooms that resonate with discerning audiences worldwide. With a Business Management degree from King’s College London, an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Babson College, and an executive education from Harvard Business School, Shah blends academic rigour with a deep-rooted passion for India’s textile heritage. Since joining her family’s 130-year-old textile business in 2012 under her father Bharat Shah’s mentorship, she has led Ekaya’s growth through innovative retail strategies, creative collaborations with designers like Masaba Gupta, Abraham & Thakore, and international brands such as Missoni and Ferragamo. She is also behind Thaan, India’s first textile gallery that was launched in 2017 as a creative and technical fountainhead, designed to showcase the endless possibilities of Banarasi silk. Shah’s commitment to elevating Indian textiles has earned her a place in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2019) and Forbes 30 Under 30 India (2020), recognising her as both an innovator and a preserver of heritage. Her vision is to see the saree and other traditional textiles achieve iconic status globally, on par with symbols like Japan’s kimono. | 34 Niyati Rao Head Chef & Partner, Ekaa, KMC, and Bombay Daak Palak Shah Founder and CEO, Ekaya Banaras
“Switzerland holds a special place in my heart. I once drove from Paris to Geneva and then up to Gstaad, just me, the road, and nature unfolding like a film.” Panchali Mahendra stands out as one of the foremost voices in luxury hospitality, recognised by Forbes Middle East as a “Leader Behind Luxury Dining in the Middle East.” As the CEO of Atelier House Hospitality (AHH), she has transformed the company into a boutique powerhouse, creating dining experiences that resonate globally. Under her leadership, 11 Woodfire earned a Michelin star within six months of opening and was ranked #14 on MENA’s 50 Best list in 2024. Her journey began with a gold medal from IHM-Aurangabad and a degree from the University of Huddersfield, UK, providing a strong foundation in hospitality management. Further training at the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD) helped her refine the skills needed to lead a career spanning over two decades, during which she has shaped more than 80 restaurant concepts worldwide. In 2017, Mahendra co-founded Atelier House Hospitality alongside Ahmass Fakahany, CEO of Altamarea Group, establishing a portfolio that balances upscale refinement with approachable luxury. Her vision and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, including Restaurateur of the Year (Caterer Middle East, 2023) and a place on the Caterer Middle East Powerful Women List for four consecutive years. She has also been featured in Vogue Arabia and Fortune’s Time UK, sharing her insights on leadership, innovation, and adapting to evolving consumer expectations. Beyond her professional achievements, Mahendra is a champion for women in hospitality. In 2021, she became the first woman in the sector to receive the UAE Golden Visa, a recognition of her industry-wide impact. | 37 “LuxeBook feels like my go-to lens into the world of luxury.” Pushpa Bector has redefined how India shops, dines and experiences leisure. She has steered DLF Retail to become synonymous with holistic, world-class retail destinations such as DLF Mall of India, DLF Emporio, and The Chanakya. A Harvard alumnus, Bector began her career with Oberoi Hotels and Jubilant FoodWorks before joining DLF, where she pioneered experiential retail through innovation, digital adoption, and global best practices. Her leadership—marked by resilience, integrity, and foresight—has consistently driven DLF’s growth, even through crises like the pandemic. For Bector, luxury is “a subtle blend of comfort and refinement,” reflected in her approach to crafting bespoke, memorable experiences. “Bespoke, thoughtful experiences are the luxury trends that will never go out of style.” She believes the glass ceiling in luxury is steadily fading, as leadership and skill increasingly define success. Her personal favourites—gin-based cocktails, which are “subtle, elegant, and enduringly refined,” her mother’s Kanjivaram saree and temple art jewellery, “rich with history and love,” and the timeless allure of Egypt with its “captivating, exotic landscapes”—mirror her appreciation for elegance, heritage, and culture. A weeknight, she says, sees her “finding calm, perhaps with a good book, soft music, and a cup of tea or coffee.” An advocate for women in leadership and recipient of multiple honours, including Woman Icon of the Year and Most Inspiring Business Leader, Pushpa Bector continues to inspire with her belief that true success lies in “leading with integrity, embracing growth, and creating lasting impact.” | 36 Panchali Mahendra CEO, Atelier House Hospitality Pushpa Bector Senior Executive Director and Business Head, DLF Retail
“Luxury, to me, is the intention. It is about craftsmanship, storytelling, and an emotional connection rather than extravagance.” Raseel Gujral Ansal, a celebrated force in the world of multidisciplinary design for close to four decades, is renowned for her ability to blend art, design, and technology seamlessly. The daughter of legend Satish Gujral has been a pioneer in interior, spatial, and product design, bringing her expertise to every concept. RGA Design LLP, which was established in 1986 under the mentorship of her father, exemplifies spatial design mastery through diverse projects from luxurious homes to expansive commercial projects. On the other hand, Casa Paradox Luxe which she started with her partner, Navin Ansal embodies a fusion of global refinement with indigenous design. It is the first Indian brand showcased at Maison et Objet Paris in 2013. She is also at the helm of other ventures including Raseel Gujral Art Legacy (2012), Casa Pop (2013), and the recently-launched Arzaani (2025). While Casa Pop has transitioned into an artistic living brand, Raseel Gujral Art Legacy embodies the spirit of legacy. Arzaani is a bespoke atelier of curated luxury—where heritage meets contemporary refinement. “True luxury lies in freedom—the ability, the means, and the independence to follow your desires on your own terms.” For Richa Singh, natural diamonds are more than luxury—they are a story, an aspiration, and a movement. Leading the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) in India and the Middle East, she has spent over 27 years shaping brands, understanding consumers, and redefining luxury experiences. Her journey is a testament to the power of vision combined with execution, turning niche aspirations into mainstream desire. Singh’s career began at JWT, where she immersed herself in consumer insights, creative strategy, and campaign execution, laying the foundation for a lifelong understanding of what drives people. She then spent 14 years at L’Oréal, scaling brands across diverse segments while creating experiences that left a lasting imprint on consumers. In 2017, she took the reins of NDC India and Middle East as Managing Director. At NDC, Singh has worked closely with the industry to cultivate an aspirational vision for natural diamonds, inspiring Indian consumers to embrace sustainable and ethically sourced luxury. Her efforts have transformed the way people perceive diamonds, making the “Natural Diamond Dream” a tangible and desirable reality. Her leadership has earned widespread recognition. Singh was awarded the ET Inspiring Women’s Awards 2021 as ‘Visionary in the Luxury Sector,’ featured in Luxebook’s Top 100 Most Powerful Leaders in 2022 and 2023, and celebrated with the ‘Super Achiever’ Award at Indian Television’s Wonder Women 2023. | 38 Raseel Gujral Ansal Founder, RGA Design LLP and Arzaani, Co-founder Casa Paradox Luxe, Casa Pop | 39 Richa Singh Managing Director, India & The Middle East, Natural Diamond Council
| 40 “Luxury is emotion woven with artistry. It’s about the human touch, time, and tradition that make something timeless.” For designer Rimple Narula, Rah Jewels is not a new chapter but a homecoming. Her earliest memories go back to her Iranian grandmother—an elegant woman whose heirloom jewels carried whispers of distant worlds. Those pieces sparked Narula’s lifelong fascination with legacy and artistry. As a traveller and design researcher, she has spent years exploring bazaars, palaces, and archives, collecting fragments of India’s artistic heritage. Her extensive research for Heeramandi deepened her understanding of antique jewellery–how it was crafted, lived, and continues to hold meaning today. Though best known for her eponymous couture label, Narula’s heart has always been drawn to jewellery. With Rah Jewels, she finally brings that passion to life through fine silver pieces that merge heritage with modernity. Each creation reflects her instinct for storytelling, craftsmanship, and her quest to bridge the past and the present. | 41 “LuxeBook is a chronicle of refinement, craftsmanship, and the ever-evolving language of luxury.” Fashion designer Ritu Beri is renowned for her eclectic style and transformative influence on the global fashion scene. A protégé of French embroidery maestro François Lesage, she launched her label in 1990, quickly earning acclaim for fusing Indian aesthetics with international trends. In 2002, she became the first Asian to head the ready-to-wear division of the French fashion house Jean-Louis Scherrer, and her clientele includes global figures like Nicole Kidman, Bill Clinton and Prince Charles. She was the first Indian designer in Paris in 1999, and Time Magazine declared her “The First Lady of fashion in her country.” Honoured with the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France and the Lady of the Order of Civil Merit by Spain, Beri has also nurtured India’s luxury ecosystem as the founder of The Luxury League, a non-profit promoting creativity, craft, and innovation. In 2024, she unveiled Escape, a lifestyle and cultural hub in a 200-yearold Portuguese villa in Socorro, North Goa. On entrepreneurship, she says, “Successful entrepreneurs are defined by the courage to dream differently, persistence, and an uncompromising eye for detail.” She believes barriers exist but insists, “Creativity, resilience, and authenticity always find a way to shine through.” On trends, she observes, “Conscious luxury, where sustainability meets elegance, is here to stay.” For Beri, luxury is “the freedom to live beautifully, surrounded by authenticity, artistry, and meaning.” Her heirlooms — her mother’s handwoven sarees and antique jewellery — carry the soul of Indian craftsmanship. Paris remains her eternal muse: “It’s a city that breathes art, fashion, and romance — it shaped my design language.” Rimple Narula Managing Director, Designer and Owner, RAH Jewels by Rimple & Harpreet Ritu Beri Fashion Designer and Founder, The Luxury League
“LuxeBook is an indulgent retreat for the senses.” Ruchira Jaitly is the powerhouse steering marketing and innovation across a stellar portfolio of award-winning alcohol and beverage brands, bringing over 25 years of experience in building iconic consumer brands. Before Diageo, she was Senior Director - Marketing at PepsiCo India, shaping household names like Kurkure and Mountain Dew and masterminding the celebrated Pepsi IPL campaign. Her career spans impactful stints with Nokia, where she crafted a portfolio unique to India, and Royal DSM, where she launched MANDI, an F&B nutrition start-up tackling malnutrition. Beyond business, Jaitly is a fierce champion of talent and women’s leadership—co-founding Ashoka University, mentoring at Vedica Women’s Alliance, and contributing to the CII National Committee on Women Empowerment & Indian Women Network (IWN). Her mission: to guide and inspire the next generation of women professionals and entrepreneurs. That’s perhaps why she doesn’t believe a glass ceiling exists for women in luxury, praising leaders like Leena Nair. She says that “passion, purpose, and with it a hunger to forge a new path while creating value for many” is essential for entrepreneurs. On luxury, Jaitly adds, mindful luxury is “here to stay. Luxury is when craft meets purpose, acknowledging both the creator and the consumer… That’s why I am fascinated by the textile heritage of India and enamoured by the saree, a synthesis of a weaver’s craft and legacy.” Among her cherished heirlooms is “my Nani’s wedding silver tea set, in Art Deco design with chinar leaves engraved all over… a testimony to the craft of the artisans.” | 43 “LuxeBook is where India’s contemporary take on luxury is told with intelligence and style.” When Sakshi Saigal co-founded Third Eye Distillery with Rahul Mehra and Vidur Gupta in 2018, she was among the early innovators shaping India’s gin renaissance. While pursuing her MBA at IESE Business School in Barcelona, she witnessed Europe’s gin revolution and recognised a white space waiting to be filled back home. “Luxury is about authenticity and time,” she says. “It’s not about excess, but about the details—the craft, the provenance, and the experience that lingers long after the moment has passed.” That philosophy defines Stranger & Sons, their flagship gin that won a Gold-Outstanding medal and was named among the world’s eight best gins at the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2020. “Our heirlooms are stories rather than objects—recipes passed down, memories of shared meals, and the spices and flavours of India.” Third Eye Distillery has since expanded its footprint via collaborations. Their new portfolio, Short Story, ventures into vodka and rum. Her advice to entrepreneurs: “Be patient but decisive, and always stay connected to your consumer.” Evenings often find her with a whiskey highball or a classic Negroni—“timeless, balanced, and layered in its simplicity.” Scotland’s storied distilleries remain her greatest inspiration, shaping her vision of “conscious luxury rooted in provenance, storytelling, and responsibility.” Scotland, with its storied distilleries, remains her most unforgettable destination. “It deeply influenced our approach to crafting spirits from India.” | 42 Ruchira Jaitly CMO, Diageo India Sakshi Saigal Co-Founder, Third Eye Distillery | Stranger & Sons Gin
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