Women today are often told to chase their dreams, but society still tends to put limits on how far they should go. Yet some refuse to be held back, daring to follow their ambitions no matter the expectations. Two such women are Dipa Karmakar and Ahana Gautam, who broke barriers in their respective fields and continue to inspire many.
Dipa Karmakar became India’s first female Olympic gymnast in 2016, making headlines not just for her qualification but for her bold decision to attempt the perilous Produnova vault at the Rio Olympics. Even top gymnasts like Simone Biles avoided this risky maneuver, which involves a double somersault and could lead to severe injury if not executed perfectly.
Though Dipa narrowly missed the podium, her gutsy performance earned her global recognition. “It always helps to know the negatives. I decided to give my best and work around them,” she had told Forbes India, speaking about her struggles, which included overcoming flat feet, a condition that initially threatened her career.
Hailing from Tripura, a small state in India, Dipa’s path was anything but smooth. She trained with discarded equipment and faced infrastructural challenges that would have discouraged many. Yet, her determination led her to become not just a national hero but a role model for aspiring athletes across India. After Rio, she became a household name, proving that limitations, whether physical or societal, can be conquered with persistence and courage.
Similarly, Ahana Gautam has had to navigate societal pressures throughout her journey. Growing up in Rajasthan, where girls are often expected to conform to traditional roles, Ahana faced constant questions about her ambition. When she was preparing for her IIT exams, her determination and the unwavering support of her mother helped her overcome societal biases.
After making it to IIT-Bombay and later Harvard Business School, she worked at global firms like Procter & Gamble before launching her own venture, Open Secret, a platform for healthy snacks, in 2019.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges—often labeled as aggressive and complicated for the choices she made, leading others to question her confidence. But she stood firm, unfazed by those who doubted her abilities. In a key business meeting, a leader remarked, “I think you’re too confident.” Ahana responded with poise, “I’ve earned this confidence the hard way. It has taken years for me to be unapologetically authentic.”
Both Dipa and Ahana’s stories underscore the importance of perseverance and self-belief. L'Oréal Paris celebrates these women who are both part of the coveted Forbes India under 30 alumni. Their success reminding us that “because your worth is your choice, you're worth it.” By pushing boundaries and challenging norms, they have not only achieved greatness but also paved the way for future generations of women to dream big and act boldly.
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