Uma Chigurupati, co-founder of Granules India and chairperson of FLO Hyderabad, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for marathons, gardening, and women’s empowerment. Known for her unfiltered strength and determination, Uma’s journey from Chirala in coastal Andhra Pradesh to a prominent businesswoman and advocate for women’s rights is both inspiring and impactful.

Early Life and Career

Uma’s journey began in Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, where she pursued post-graduate studies in soil microbiology and plant pathology at Nagarjuna University. Her academic excellence, marked by gold medals and scholarships, caught the attention of her future father-in-law, leading to her introduction to her husband. Together, they co-founded Granules India, a leading pharmaceutical company.

Achievements and Challenges

Uma’s relentless drive is evident in her commitment to every endeavor she undertakes. “I don’t call myself an achiever, but when I take up something, I give it my 100 percent,” she says. In her late 40s, she took on the challenge of running marathons, including the grueling North Pole marathon, where she narrowly escaped a near-death experience. These adventures, she believes, are life lessons that have shaped her resilience and outlook on life.

Advocacy and Empowerment

Uma’s role extends beyond business. As chairperson of FLO Hyderabad, she champions women’s empowerment, encouraging women to be physically fit and confident. She believes that not thinking about gender differences can solve many challenges. “Don’t think about gender, and you will realize that you have solved 60 percent of your problem,” she advises.

Balancing Act

Striking a balance between personal and professional life has been crucial for Uma. With a traveling husband and three children, she took a decade-long sabbatical to focus on her family. Learning planning and time management in her 40s, Uma successfully compartmentalized her life, ensuring she could meet her family’s needs while pursuing her passions and responsibilities.

Future Aspirations

Despite her accomplishments, Uma remains ambitious. She dreams of starting a new venture from scratch, driven by her desire to create something entirely her own. At FLO, she aims to foster women’s entrepreneurship, focusing on skill development, job creation, and supporting startups through mentoring and incubation sessions.

Personal Interests

Uma’s personal life is filled with activities that bring her joy and relaxation. She enjoys watching old Telugu movies, listening to classic songs, gardening, and taking long walks. A fitness enthusiast, Uma believes in the power of regular exercise and a balanced diet. Her love for fashion is influenced by her daughter, with Sabyasachi sarees being her favorite.

Daily Routine and Favorites

Uma starts her day with a cup of filter coffee and positive vibes, followed by a walk or exercise. Her favorite holiday locations are close to nature, where she can enjoy long walks and serene environments. Family vacations are a cherished time, often spent in a villa where her husband and son cook, creating the perfect family holiday.

Uma Chigurupati’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and empowerment. Her journey from a small town in Andhra Pradesh to becoming a leading businesswoman and advocate for women’s rights is a testament to her strength and determination.