The Change-Makers | Adwaita, Anchit on the road ahead for Nykaa

The 2025 edition of Fortune India’s 40 Under 40 has once again brought the spotlight on the nation’s most dynamic entrepreneurs, innovators, and change-makers under the age of 40. These leaders are transforming industries, inspiring future generations, and driving India into a new era of growth and creativity.

From tech disruptors to clean energy champions, from financial wizards to creative pioneers, the list celebrates those who are redefining the rules.

This year’s honorees include two names synonymous with India’s beauty and lifestyle revolution: Adwaita Nayar and Anchit Nayar of Nykaa. The duo, representing India’s largest beauty retail platform, have built an empire that blends convenience with deep brand loyalty.

In a conversation with Hook, they shared insights on quick commerce, global expansion, and balancing creativity with scale.

Speed Without Losing Soul

Quick commerce is all the rage, but can speed compromise what made Nykaa special? Anchit Nayar does not think so. “Convenience has always been important to us,” he says. “We deliver to 20,000 pin codes, from Mumbai and Delhi to Srinagar and the Northeast. Speed matters, but our priority is serving all of India, beyond just the top cities.”

Nykaa has already rolled out its own quick commerce service in major metros, but the goal remains universal accessibility. For Anchit, the challenge is not just about shaving delivery times but ensuring the brand’s promise reaches every corner of the country.

Taking the Brand Global

With 227 stores in India and 70 more planned for the GCC region, Nykaa’s growth is accelerating beyond borders. How do you preserve brand DNA while entering new markets? Anchit believes it starts with people. “The DNA of the brand is shaped by everyone who works here.

We have a young, passionate workforce that embodies who we are as a company. That same spirit will guide us as we expand into the Gulf.”

Creativity at the Core

In the high-speed race to scale, creativity can easily become a casualty. For Adwaita Nayar, that is non-negotiable. “Creativity is the most undervalued skill.

It is not just about design; it is about problem-solving. My priority is finding creative people and carving out time for free thought.”

Anchit echoes this, pointing to Nykaa’s youthful energy. “We are a young company with a Gen Z and millennial workforce. This keeps us in touch with trends and the pulse of Indian consumers.”

Why It Matters

The inclusion of Adwaita and Anchit Nayar in Fortune India’s 40 Under 40 is not just recognition of past success but a nod to their ability to keep Nykaa fresh, relevant, and ambitious in an evolving market.

In a business landscape that rewards both speed and substance, they have shown it is possible to scale without losing sight of the heart that built the brand.