Success Editor Team
In a country where menstruation has long been considered a taboo subject, Aditi Gupta is rewriting the narrative—one comic at a time. An Indian author, social entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Menstrupedia Comic, Aditi has emerged as a trailblazer in menstrual health education, empowering millions of young girls and boys across India and beyond.
Born and raised in Garhwa, Jharkhand, Aditi’s journey into activism was sparked by her own struggles with period shame and lack of awareness. Like many Indian girls, she was told to stay silent about her period, avoid religious places, and hide sanitary pads in brown paper bags. It wasn’t until she pursued a degree at the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, that she decided enough was enough.
Turning Personal Experience Into a National Movement
In 2012, along with her then-partner (now husband) Tuhin Paul, Aditi launched Menstrupedia Comic, a colorful, engaging, and culturally sensitive educational tool designed to teach young people about menstruation in a positive and shame-free way. The comic features relatable characters like Priya, Pinki, and Mira who explain menstrual health, hygiene, and puberty in a fun, story-based format.
Instead of overwhelming medical jargon or fear-based messaging, Menstrupedia uses storytelling to normalize periods—helping girls feel confident and informed, and boys become more understanding and supportive.
A Grassroots Solution With Global Reach
What began as a personal project quickly turned into a powerful social movement. Today, Menstrupedia is used in over 20,000 schools across India, has been translated into multiple languages, and is endorsed by UNICEF, NGOs, doctors, and educators alike. The comic has reached more than 13 million girls across countries including Nepal, Bangladesh, Uruguay, and South Africa.
Aditi’s approach to menstrual education is deeply rooted in empathy, creativity, and inclusivity. Rather than shaming or scolding, her work opens up conversations that were once considered off-limits.
Recognition and Awards
Aditi Gupta’s work has not gone unnoticed. She has been featured in Forbes India’s “30 Under 30” list, recognized by the BBC’s “100 Women” in 2015, and celebrated as a TEDx speaker for her bold efforts in changing the way menstruation is perceived and discussed in Indian society.
Her TEDx talk, “Let’s Talk Periods,” has inspired thousands to challenge social norms and reimagine menstrual health education in their own communities.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Changemakers
More than just an entrepreneur, Aditi Gupta is a changemaker. Her story is a shining example of how lived experiences, when combined with creativity and courage, can lead to meaningful, lasting impact. By confronting one of the most deeply entrenched taboos in Indian culture, she has sparked a movement that continues to grow.
Aditi’s message is simple yet powerful: Periods are normal. Talking about them should be too.
As she continues to expand Menstrupedia and advocate for better health education, Aditi stands as a role model for young entrepreneurs, educators, and anyone with a vision to create change.
