At the India Today Conclave Mumbai 2025, Ananya Birla, Director of Aditya Birla Management Corporation, spoke candidly about her journey as an entrepreneur, musician, and leader. She reflected on the choices she made at a young age and how they continue to shape her today.
Ananya recalled that at just 17, she felt a strong urge to create something of her own. Despite being born into privilege, she wanted to work towards financial inclusion for the less privileged. This led to the launch of Swatantra Microfin, which has now grown into India’s second-largest microfinance institution. “Starting a microfinance company was a bold move. I didn’t have much support then, but today it has created real impact,” she said.
Alongside business, Ananya followed her love for music. “I can’t go to bed if I don’t live an authentic life. If my songs touch even one person, it’s worth it,” she added.
With mornings devoted to riyaaz, a 12-hour workday at the office, and studio recordings that stretch past midnight, she hardly has time for socialising. Yet, she trusts that when you’re determined, the universe clears the way.
She also highlighted her informal leadership style, staying close to her team and ensuring policies like menstrual and mental health leave are in place.
For Ananya, success and failure go hand in hand. “I fail daily, but each failure is a lesson. With hard work, clear intentions, and faith, the universe always has a better plan.”
