In our sixth story, we look at Katyayani, the fearless warrior goddess who defeated Mahishasura. As the sixth of the Navadurgas celebrated during Navratri, she symbolises courage, determination, and resilience.
Much like Katyayani, women entrepreneurs often face tough challenges and moments of uncertainty. Yet, it’s their resilience and determination that keep them moving forward.
We asked some inspiring women leaders how these qualities have shaped their journey and guided their leadership. Here’s what they shared.
Akanksha Hazari, CEO & Founder of LoveLocal
Katyayani’s determination and resilience have been central to my leadership at LoveLocal. Building a retailer-first, community-driven model in a market dominated by quick commerce required persistence, bold decision-making, and the courage to navigate uncertainties. These qualities have helped me stay focused on our long-term vision, turn challenges into opportunities, and lead the team with conviction, even when the path forward wasn’t easy.
Vijeta Soni, Co-Founder & CEO, Sciative Solutions
For me, determination and resilience are best reflected in our approach to solving complex business problems. At Sciative, we’ve always believed in falling in love with problems, not just chasing solutions. Travel, retail, and hospitality are full of unending challenges, shifting demand, unpredictable consumer behaviour, and fierce price wars. But we see complexity as fuel. Resilience means staying curious, not discouraged. Determination means refining, testing, and pushing our AI models until they truly work for our clients.
Muskaan Kapoor
Nidhi Sabbarwal, Founder, Kalyanamm Holy Waste Recycling Pvt. Ltd.
Katyayani’s grit and perseverance are traits I have clung to closely throughout my entrepreneurial career. The incense business is traditionally oriented, and promoting environment-friendly, low-smoke variants was challenging. There were moments when people dismissed the idea as niche, but perseverance ensured that I kept innovating in natural incense, essential oils, and biodegradable packaging. Adversities are inevitable, but through resilience you can survive, and through determination you can succeed.
Tejasvi Madan, Founder & CEO, Beyond Bound
There have been moments when giving up felt tempting, when suppliers pulled out, when designs failed, when the uncertainty seemed too heavy. But Katyayani’s determination reminded me of why I started. Knowing my “why” has kept me steady. It’s this resilience, this refusal to let go of the vision, that has allowed Beyond Bound to keep moving forward even in stormy times.
Dishi Somani, Founder, DishiS Designer Jewellery
Determination and resilience have defined my entrepreneurial journey. There were times of doubt, such as market decline or changing customer demands, when the easiest thing was to quit. But resilience pushed me to innovate instead of pulling back. Persistence enabled me to stick to the vision of the brand while finding new ways to grow.
Muskaan Kapoor
Drishti Madnani, Co-Founder & Beauty Expert, Shryoan Cosmetics
Perseverance and resilience have been our greatest supporters. In an industry where trends change within hours, it can feel overwhelming. But staying focused on our vision of “luxury made accessible” has kept us on track. Resilience matters when things go sideways, whether supply chain issues or market shifts. I’ve learnt that challenges are not setbacks but redirections. Each obstacle has made Shryoan stronger.
Ambika Bhaik, CEO, Yellow Fertility
Resilience is about being present, despite the odds being against you. I have navigated through economic recessions, shifting markets, and unforeseen crises. Setbacks are temporary; they are stepping stones. It’s not about how quickly you change, but how promptly you learn, rebalance, and move forward without losing your vision.
Priyanka Jain, Co-Founder & Director of Marketing, Snow World Entertainment
What has kept us going is the ability to stay resilient and calm under pressure, making decisions that are long-term, not reactive. Every hurdle has been a new opportunity. Leading Snow World Entertainment, especially while scaling or launching concepts like world-class hospitality blended with gaming and technology, demanded courage and determination. Resilience and focus helped us shape innovative steps for the industry.
Samiha Jha, Founder & Director, Sammyukk
Having founded Sammyukk wasn’t smooth sailing, there were moments of uncertainty, setbacks, and doubt. But resilience is about showing up even when the way ahead is not clear. I’ve learnt to lead with clarity, stay grounded in purpose, and adapt without losing direction. Challenges aren’t roadblocks; they are reminders to rise stronger.
Gopika B Raj, Co-Founder & CCO, MyDesignation
Swaroop (Co-Founder & CEO) and I often describe ourselves as yin and yang—his calm, grounded nature perfectly balances my restless drive. This balance has been invaluable in navigating challenges. While I push boundaries with bold ideas, his steadiness ensures we remain grounded and resilient under pressure. Together, this dynamic hasn’t just shaped my leadership but has been the foundation of MyDesignation itself.
Muskaan Kapoor