-
By Bidisha Roy
Her accomplishments have earned significant recognition. She was named one of New Jersey’s Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs, recognized by Forbes among leading women executives of Indian heritage in the United States, and became the first woman marketer elected Chairman of the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA).
An artist, producer, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador, Poonam Khubani has built a remarkable American success story defined by creativity, resilience, leadership, and an unwavering connection to her Indian heritage. From becoming North America’s first Hindi news anchor to leading international business expansion across more than 100 countries, her journey reflects the power of reinvention and the ability to transform diverse experiences into lasting impact.
The story of Poonam Khubani is not simply one of success. It is a story of reinvention—the journey of a young girl from Jaipur who carried India’s music, traditions, and values across oceans and transformed them into a life of artistic achievement, entrepreneurial leadership, and community service in America.
Poonam’s artistic foundation was built at an early age. Growing up in Jaipur, Rajasthan, she was immersed in India’s rich traditions of music, dance, and storytelling. Classically trained in singing and dance, she began performing at the age of five and appeared on All India Radio, developing the discipline, confidence, and ability to connect with audiences that would become defining qualities throughout her career.
When she arrived in the United States, Poonam faced the challenge experienced by many immigrants: building a new future while preserving the identity and traditions that shaped her. Rather than separating herself from her heritage, she transformed it into a source of strength and a foundation for her professional journey.
A Pioneer in North American Media
Poonam made history as the first Hindi news anchor in North America, appearing on ITV, Vision of Asia, and Amitabh Bachchan’s TV Asia at a time when South Asian voices had limited representation in American media.
Her role carried significance far beyond television. For generations of Indian immigrants seeking a connection to their homeland, Poonam’s presence represented familiarity, pride, and belonging. She brought professionalism, warmth, and authenticity to the screen, becoming a trusted and recognizable figure within the South Asian community.
Her influence soon extended beyond broadcasting into the worlds of luxury, fashion, and cultural representation. Cartier selected her to help launch its prestigious Bamboo Collection on Madison Avenue in New York City; an event celebrated with remarkable Indian-inspired elegance and pageantry. Condé Nast Traveler also featured Poonam as an Indian bride in a campaign highlighting India’s tourism and cultural richness, further establishing her as an ambassador for Indian heritage on a global stage.
An Artist, Producer, and Creative Visionary
Poonam’s creative career has spanned music, television, acting, and theatrical production. Her artistic work includes recordings such as “Ek Look Ek Look” and collaborations with renowned Bollywood talents including Anand Raj Anand, Meet Bros, Bosco-Caesar, and Remo D’Souza.
Her creative journey expanded into Broadway, where she contributed as a producer supporting acclaimed productions including Passing Strange, November, and Legends. Her role as a producer demonstrated her ability to combine artistic vision with strategic thinking, collaboration, and execution—skills that would later define her leadership in the business world.
Building a Global Business Legacy
Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of Poonam Khubani’s journey is her transformation from artist and media personality into a highly accomplished international business executive.
As President of TeleBrands International, Poonam became a key leader in expanding the company’s global presence across more than 100 countries. Her responsibilities encompassed international marketing, manufacturing, infomercial production, retail distribution, digital commerce, and sales strategy.
Under her leadership, TeleBrands achieved significant global success, including the remarkable growth of products such as the PedEgg, which sold more than 50 million units worldwide. Her ability to understand consumers across cultures, create compelling marketing strategies, and build international partnerships positioned her as a respected leader in global commerce.
The transition from performer and broadcaster to international executive may appear unconventional, but the qualities that shaped her artistic career became powerful leadership tools. The confidence of a performer strengthened her ability to lead. The communication skills of a broadcaster enhanced her ability to influence audiences. The creativity of an artist helped her develop innovative business strategies.
Poonam has often emphasized that her goal was to achieve financial independence—not simply as a measure of success, but as a means of having the freedom and confidence to create opportunities and shape her own future.
Her accomplishments have earned significant recognition. She was named one of New Jersey’s Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs, recognized by Forbes among leading women executives of Indian heritage in the United States, and became the first woman marketer elected Chairman of the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA). Her appointment represented a major milestone for women in an industry where senior leadership had historically been dominated by men.
Leadership Through Service and Community Impact
For Poonam, achievement has always been connected to responsibility. Throughout her career, she has supported charitable, artistic, and educational initiatives, including Children’s Hope India, and has contributed her expertise to organizations such as the Newark Museum, the International Advertising Association, and the Indo-American Arts Council.
Her leadership extends beyond professional accomplishments. As the wife of entrepreneur A.J. Khubani and the mother of Carishma, Sunny, and Jahan, she has balanced career, family, and community service with dedication and purpose.
Poonam’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs reflects the values that have guided her own journey: “Have a goal. Get started and don’t be afraid.” She believes success requires focus, discipline, hard work, attention to detail, and effective communication.
Those principles have defined every chapter of her life. She began performing at five, became North America’s first Hindi news anchor, represented Indian culture on international platforms, produced Broadway productions, and helped lead a global company serving markets around the world.
From Jaipur to Madison Avenue, from Indian radio to North American television, and from creative studios to international boardrooms, Poonam Khubani has remained connected to her roots while continuously creating new paths forward.
Her journey demonstrates that heritage and ambition can coexist—that roots provide strength, and vision creates the ability to rise. Through her leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial achievements, Poonam Khubani continues to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams with courage, confidence, and purpose.
Be the first to comment