Being the daughter of billionaire has not deterred Devyani Jaipuria from choosing her own path.
She runs DPS Schools, Dharav High schools, Cocoon Hospitals, Devyani International foods and also RJ Corp.
As the head of a premium education brand in India, she sees luxury in education as something far deeper than impressive infrastructure. While world-class facilities and global exposure matter, true luxury lies in the values, curiosity, and confidence that education instills in students. It is about nurturing well-rounded individuals and providing an environment where learning extends beyond textbooks into character, critical thinking, and global awareness.
Coming from a respected business family, she has had to balance the weight of legacy with the need to carve out her own voice and vision. While the foundation built by previous generations offers strength and credibility, she believes leadership today also requires fresh thinking, adaptability, and the courage to shape a direction that reflects contemporary realities.
For her, women in leadership goes far beyond representation. Real progress lies in shifting power structures so that women are not just present at the table but are actively shaping decisions, strategy, and culture. This includes creating environments where women have equal access to opportunities, authority, and long-term growth.
Her journey with Cocoon Hospital introduced her to a very different kind of leadership challenge. Moving from education to maternity care meant stepping into a sector built on trust, empathy, and emotional sensitivity. Leadership in healthcare demands a deeper understanding of patient experiences, compassion in decision-making, and a strong commitment to safety and care.
Despite progress, women in corporate and education leadership in India still encounter barriers ranging from unconscious bias and societal expectations to limited access to leadership networks. Navigating these spaces often requires resilience and determination.
There have also been moments where she has had to assert authority differently as a woman. These experiences have shaped her leadership style, reinforcing the importance of confidence, clarity, and staying grounded in one’s purpose.
She draws inspiration from leaders who combine vision with integrity and who use their influence to create meaningful change. Such role models reinforce her belief that leadership is ultimately about responsibility and impact.
If she could rewrite one societal rule about women and work in India, it would be the expectation that women must constantly choose between professional ambition and personal responsibilities. She believes the future should allow women to pursue both without judgment or limitation.
Looking ahead, she envisions a future where her brands continue to grow with purpose — expanding their reach while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and meaningful impact in the sectors they serve.
Read the full story that first appeared in Robb Report India here:
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