India's startup ecosystem is currently experiencing a surge of young and ambitious entrepreneurs who are disrupting industries and creating innovative solutions. Several reports highlight the rise of unicorn founders under 35 who are making significant contributions to the Indian economy. A recent report lists 73 startups for 2025 that are unicorns, along with 150 potential future unicorns.
Zepto's Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra
Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra, the co-founders of Zepto, are among the youngest and most successful entrepreneurs in India. In 2025, both are 23 years old. They founded Zepto in 2021 to capitalize on the increasing demand for quick-commerce delivery services. Zepto delivers groceries to customers' homes in 10-15 minutes. By using dark stores and smart route algorithms, Zepto ensures fast delivery. Zepto's valuation was around $1.4 billion in 2024. Zepto has raised over $600 million in funding from investors such as Nexus Venture Partners, Y Combinator, and Glade Brook Capital. Palicha's estimated net worth is over ₹1,200 crore, while Vohra's is over ₹1,000 crore.
OYO's Ritesh Agarwal
Ritesh Agarwal, the founder and CEO of OYO Rooms, has also achieved significant success at a young age. Born on November 16, 1993, Agarwal is 31 years old in 2025. OYO Rooms, founded in 2013, is India's largest hotel network. Agarwal's net worth is around ₹16,000 crores. OYO gained momentum and expanded its offerings through talent and technology acquisition. In 2016, OYO acquired Qlik Pass, laying the foundation for OYO's data science department and enabling data-driven decisions.
Other Rising Stars
Besides Agarwal, Palicha and Vohra, several other young entrepreneurs are making waves in India's startup ecosystem. Arjun Deshpande (22), founded Generic Aadhaar to provide affordable medicines nationwide. Rahul Rawat (25) of Digantara is making waves in SpaceTech, and Shiva Sankeshwar (23) is revamping intercity travel with Vijayanand Travels.
These young entrepreneurs are transforming industries, creating jobs, and shaping the future of the Indian economy. They have collectively raised billions of dollars in funding and employ hundreds of thousands of people. Mumbai has emerged as a hotspot for young entrepreneurs, with 15 featured in a recent list. These entrepreneurs are redefining industries and creating global impact before turning 30.
