Women today are fearlessly stepping up, seizing opportunities, and demonstrating their exceptional skills across various fields. Whether in politics, administration, science, medicine, or business, they are making remarkable strides, advancing their careers while inspiring society at large. As entrepreneurs, they are driving economic growth, transforming industries, and setting new benchmarks in leadership.
As part of the Womenpreneur Awards 2025, we had the privilege of witnessing one such trailblazing entrepreneur, Aanchal Mahajan, the visionary CEO and founder of Snooplay, an innovative online marketplace catering to toy and game enthusiasts of all ages. Her remarkable efforts were recognised as she won the ‘E-Commerce Brand of the Year’ Award for Womenpreneur 2025 (HerZindagi), celebrating her impact on redefining toy retail in India.
What Inspired Aanchal To Start Her Entrepreneurial Journey?
"I never set out to become an entrepreneur in the conventional sense of ‘I always wanted to start a business,’” says Aanchal Mahajan, founder and CEO of Snooplay. “For me, it was about solving a real problem that I personally felt was being overlooked.”
Growing up in a family deeply involved in the toy industry, Aanchal witnessed firsthand how toys were often seen as mere objects rather than powerful tools that nurture imagination, skills, and confidence. This realisation stayed with her and eventually led to the creation of Snooplay.
“When I started Snooplay, the goal was simple—help parents find the right toys and games for their kids,” she shares. However, what she didn’t anticipate was how much the industry needed a fresh perspective. The Indian toy market was burdened by gender stereotypes, outdated perceptions, and limited access to high-quality options. “I saw an opportunity to change that, and that’s how the journey began,” she adds.
With Snooplay, Aanchal has redefined the way toys and games are perceived, ensuring they are not just products but essential tools for growth and learning.
Key Lessons From Aanchal’s Entrepreneurial Journey
“There are so many lessons I’ve learnt along the way, but if I had to narrow it down, these stand out the most,” shares Aanchal Mahajan.
One of the biggest realisations for her was that, as an entrepreneur, there’s no safety net when things go wrong. “No one is coming to fix things for you. The responsibility to make things right always falls on your shoulders,” she explains.
She also emphasises the importance of decision-making, even when it’s tough. “There will be moments when you have to make difficult calls, and not everyone will agree with them. But as a leader, you have to trust your instincts and make the best choice for the business,” she says.
Another crucial lesson she’s learnt is the value of a strong team. “Your team matters the most. One wrong hire can slow you down, but the right team can take your vision further than you ever imagined,” Aanchal notes.
Like any business, Snooplay has had its ups and downs, and Aanchal has learnt to navigate both. “Not every month is great. There have been times when we’ve seen incredible growth, and others when we’ve struggled. The key is to stay consistent and not get too shaken by the highs or lows,” she explains.
Perhaps the most personal lesson she’s learnt is about maintaining her own well-being. “Personal health can take a hit if you’re not careful. I learnt this the hard way, with anxiety and even BP issues creeping in. But I’ve also realised that if I’m not okay, my business won’t be either,” she shares.
Aanchal’s Advice For Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurship is often romanticised, but Aanchal Mahajan believes in discussing the realities of the journey. “Entrepreneurship can get really lonely. If you can, find yourself a co-founder—it makes the journey a lot easier,” she advises. Having a strong support system, whether in the form of a business partner or a mentor, can make a significant difference.
The entrepreneurial path is unpredictable, filled with both victories and setbacks. “Some days will be incredible, others will be downright tough. Push through anyway,” she says, highlighting the resilience required to keep going despite challenges.
Aanchal also points out that not everyone will understand your vision. “Your friends, family, even your own team might not always get your decisions. And that’s okay,” she shares, emphasising the importance of trusting oneself even when external validation is lacking.
The ability to handle rejection, making tough decisions, and adapting along the way is crucial. “Making tough calls, handling rejection, and figuring things out as you go is part of the process. Just don’t let it wear you down, and please do take care of yourself too,” she advises.
For Aanchal, entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business—it’s about learning, growing, and finding balance in the face of uncertainty.
Aanchal On Winning ‘E-Commerce Brand of the Year’ Award
Winning the ‘E-Commerce Brand of the Year’ award at Womenpreneur 2025 (HerZindagi) is a testament to Aanchal Mahajan's dedication to transforming the toy industry in India. It highlights not just the impact of Snooplay but also the growing presence of women entrepreneurs leading category-defining businesses. For Aanchal, this recognition is both a milestone and a motivation to continue breaking barriers, innovating, and creating meaningful change in the industry.
Snooplay, under the leadership of Aanchal Mahajan, is revolutionising the Indian toy and play-based learning market with a dynamic growth strategy. By leveraging data-driven personalisation, the platform is enhancing toy discovery through AI-powered recommendations, smart filters, and educational insights. The expansion of its private label, Jukku, is further strengthening its market presence with BIS-certified, made-in-India toys across diverse categories, including STEM learning and role-play products. To promote affordability and sustainability, Snooplay is also introducing a toy rental service, allowing parents flexible access to premium toys while reducing waste.
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Through Snooplay, Aanchal Mahajan is not just building a brand—she is redefining the way India plays, learns, and grows. By breaking stereotypes, embracing innovation, and making play accessible to all, she is proving that the right idea, driven by passion and purpose, can transform an industry and leave a lasting legacy.
Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.
Credits: Snooplay Instagram
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