Meet The Women Entrepreneurs From Rural Areas Who Inspired Millions

“It does not matter where you start, it matters where you finish.”  

When most people think of women in businesses who have inspired millions, they think of world-renowned celebrities or influential political women leaders. However, many overlooked women from rural areas have had a tremendous impact on their communities and beyond. 

Table Of Contents

• Introduction

• Challenges Faced By Women In Business Today

• Attributes To Learn From These Women

• Conclusion

Introduction 

These inspiring women come from all walks of life, and each has her own unique story to tell. By highlighting the work of these extraordinary women, we can show that anyone can make a difference in the world. So meet some of the rural female role models who have made a lasting impact. 

Women In Business From Rural Areas who have Inspired Millions 

• Kalpana Saroj: She was born in a Vidharbha Dalit family, married at age 12, and moved in with her husband's family in a slum neighbourhood of Mumbai. However, she abandoned her husband and was brought back home by her saviour, her father, after enduring constant physical and mental torture at the hands of her in-laws. She made a fresh start as a working woman by beginning work at a clothing factory after being saved by her father. She later traded in the tailoring and furnishings stores and is currently one of Mumbai's largest merchants and inspiration for upcoming women Entrepreneurs. In addition to this, she received the Padma Shri Award in 2013.

Recommended Blogs

Explore inspiring stories, tips, and trends for women entrepreneurs

What Makes UDDITA Different: Inside the Room Where Market Access Actually Happens

UDDITA brings women-led MSMEs into direct conversation with PSUs, export bodies, and policy leaders—offering clarity, confidence, and structured pathways to formal markets.

January 23, 2026 Read More →

Meet 10 Women Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists, Therapists and Coaches

A curated list of 10 women psychologists, therapists, and life coaches in India, supporting emotional wellbeing, relationships, trauma recovery, and personal growth.

January 21, 2026 Read More →

Why UDDITA Is a Must-Attend Market-Access Event for Women-Led MSMEs

Women-led MSMEs in India face persistent barriers to accessing PSU procurement and global markets. This article explores why platforms like UDDITA are essential to bridge the gap between policy intent and real participation.

January 9, 2026 Read More →

What Women Listed Built in 2025 — and Why 2026 Matters Even More

A reflective wrap-up of Women Listed’s 2025 journey — highlighting the platforms, conversations, and connections that helped women-led businesses gain visibility, access markets, and grow with intention.

January 2, 2026 Read More →

Meet Himani Agarwal Who’s Building a Niche in Enamel Jewellery with The Joyful Enamelist

A business feature on Himani Agarwal, founder of The Joyful Enamelist, a women-led studio building a niche in enamel jewellery through small-batch craftsmanship, design clarity, and a modern approach to a traditional craft.

December 12, 2025 Read More →

10 Women Interior Designers to Discover on Women Listed

Discover talented women interior designers and women-led design studios featured on Women Listed. Explore emerging voices shaping modern homes and workspaces.

December 10, 2025 Read More →

Inside The Feast by Women Listed: A First-of-Its-Kind Showcase of Women-Led Food Brands

The Feast by Women Listed is India’s first curated food festival celebrating women-led food, beverage, and lifestyle brands — featuring 100+ stalls, tastings, workshops, and conversations with leading founders.

December 1, 2025 Read More →

How Mmeeta Sharma is Redefining Crystal Wellness with Venus Treasures

A feature on Mmeeta Sharma, the founder of Venus Treasures, and how she is bringing a modern, intention-led approach to crystal wellness through her handcrafted healing tools and personalised guidance.

November 28, 2025 Read More →

10 Women-Led Ethnic Wear Brands to Bookmark from the Bazaar: The Gift Edit

A Women Listed curation of 10 women-led ethnic wear brands from our Bazaar: The Gift Edit, featuring fresh, contemporary and homegrown Indianwear by emerging women founders.

November 19, 2025 Read More →

Inside Women Listed Bazaar: How We Are Curating Women-Led Brands for The Gift Edit

Step inside Women Listed Bazaar: The Gift Edit and see how we are curating women-led brands for a premium, purposeful pre-Diwali gifting exhibition in Delhi.

August 8, 2025 Read More →