International Women's Day 2025: The time when family businesses were exclusively inherited by sons is a thing of the past. Nowadays, an increasing number of daughters are assuming leadership positions. In various sectors, women are at the helm of family enterprises, skillfully merging tradition with innovation, and introducing new perspectives, courageous strategies, and a steadfast dedication to excellence.

More daughters taking reins of family businesses

Yukti Nagpal, the director of Gulshan Group, exemplifies a modern approach to leadership. In a recent interview with Lifestyle, she articulated, “At Gulshan Group, leadership is not a birthright; it is something that must be earned. It requires commitment, vision, and the capacity to create meaningful change while maintaining a tradition of excellence. For me, entering the business was never a matter of privilege. My father provided encouragement, empowerment, and support, yet true leadership must be developed through experience, determination, and a comprehensive understanding of the industry's intricacies.”

Was the journey straightforward? Yukti responded, “I needed to build trust among stakeholders, teams, and colleagues—not by demanding recognition but by demonstrating my ability to enhance our business. Leadership involved questioning the status quo, welcoming innovation, and broadening our perspectives while remaining anchored in the fundamental values that characterize us.”

She emphasized the importance of finding the right equilibrium between honouring a legacy and crafting a future that exceeds expectations. For the upcoming generation of women poised to take the helm of their family enterprises, Yukti's advice is clear: “Success is not merely about assuming a position; it is about fully embracing it. Engage wholeheartedly, delve into every facet of the business, and forge a legacy that showcases your distinct strengths. Genuine leadership transcends gender; it is defined by the impact we create. Behind every successful man stands a strong woman, and behind every successful woman is a powerful network of men who support her vision.”

Breaking traditional norms and stereotypes

An increasing number of daughters are now taking charge of family businesses, a shift that challenges traditional norms and alters longstanding customs. This development may leave some men feeling uncertain or marginalized. Dr. Preeti Singh, a senior consultant in clinical psychology and Chief Medical Officer at Lissun, expressed optimism regarding the growing presence of daughters in leadership roles within family enterprises. However, she also highlighted the imbalance that arises from the entrenched influence of patriarchy, which often leads men to internalize a need for dominance and control due to societal expectations.

Dr Singh noted, “From an early age, men are taught to associate their value with authority, decision-making capabilities, and their roles as providers and protectors. This societal conditioning fosters a belief that their viewpoints are inherently more valid, not only in professional environments but also in personal and familial settings.”

She further remarked, “The journey of unlearning these ingrained beliefs and evolving is crucial for men, as it promotes self-awareness and emotional maturity, thereby enhancing their relationships both within the family and in broader contexts. This shift allows for more equitable and collaborative interactions, where leadership is determined by skill and vision rather than gender. Ultimately, endorsing women’s leadership not only bolsters businesses but also encourages personal growth and collective advancement, paving the way for a more inclusive and progressive future.”

Stepping into a leadership role as a daughter-in-law

Dr Sheetal Jindal, a senior consultant at Jindal IVF Chandigarh, expressed to Lifestyle that assuming a son is an automatic heir to a family business reflects a deeply entrenched patriarchal perspective that has historically influenced leadership roles. However, she noted that societal norms are evolving, with women consistently demonstrating their capability to lead successful enterprises.

She remarked, “When I assumed a leadership position at Jindal IVF, it was not as a son or even a biological daughter, but as a daughter-in-law—often a figure overlooked in discussions of succession. My in-laws bestowed upon me great love, trust, and respect, recognizing my abilities and vision rather than confining me to conventional familial roles. This confidence has empowered me to confront gender biases in leadership and contribute to a sector that uplifts women and families.”

Dr. Jindal further stated that she has been privileged to bring specialized expertise to Jindal IVF. “In my role, particularly in managing the genetics program, I have not only enhanced reproductive healthcare but also cultivated a compassionate, patient-focused environment that enables women to take charge of their reproductive health and futures,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Dr. Jindal aims to motivate other women, particularly those in comparable situations, to trust in their ability to lead, innovate, and thrive, regardless of societal expectations. She concluded, “For me, leadership transcends titles or heritage; it is characterized by passion, determination, and an unwavering belief in one’s ability to effect change.”

What to do to adapt and cope better

Dr. Preeti Singh emphasized the importance of examining this transformation and the associated reactions through the perspective of intergenerational trauma, noting that previous generations have confined women to specific roles, which are now being questioned and can result in feelings of self-doubt.

She advised, “Initially, it is crucial to recognize these trauma responses and refrain from acting upon them. Acknowledge your feelings of guilt and avoid adopting a self-critical tone in your self-dialogue; instead, adopt a supportive and compassionate approach. Establish a robust support system that can provide assistance during vulnerable times and celebrate your achievements.”

Furthermore, she remarked that seeking assistance, whether from professionals or personal networks, should not be perceived as a weakness—one should actively delegate tasks when feasible. Additionally, she stressed the importance of maintaining one’s health. “Ensure that you do not neglect your micro and macronutrient intake, hydration, core exercises, sleep, and activities that bring you joy. It is entirely acceptable to consult a mental health professional if you find it challenging to adapt to the new leadership role and are experiencing persistent sleep disturbances,” Dr Singh concluded.

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