Some moments feel like validation, not just of success, but of intent. And that is exactly what Kusha Kapila’s recent recognition by GQ India represents. As part of GQ’s “Most Influential Young Indians of 2026” list, Kusha has been acknowledged not just as a content creator, but as a founder who is quietly reshaping conversations around comfort, confidence, and body inclusivity through her brand, Underneat.
Kusha Kapila’s Underneat Is Built on Real Needs
For Kusha Kapila, the transition to becoming an entrepreneur was not something that happened unexpectedly. Rather, it seemed to be a logical progression of the personality she had developed through social media platforms that emphasized authenticity, humor, and relatability.
Through her line Underneat, Kapila has ventured into an area that has previously been overlooked in India: shapewear designed specifically for Indians. Unlike other brands that create shapewear with restrictive fabric, the brand focuses on designing shapewear made up of breathable materials, almost similar to wearing a second skin.
The most interesting thing about GQ’s recognition of her work lies in how it positions Kapila among entrepreneurs, creators, and artists who are influencing rather than just being influenced by their surroundings.
A GQ Nod That Reflects a Cultural Shift
GQ India’s “Most Influential Young Indians” list celebrates individuals who are redefining industries and building forward-looking conversations across fashion, business, and culture.
Kusha Kapila’s inclusion in that list feels particularly telling. It signals a shift in how creator-led businesses are being perceived. No longer seen as side projects, they are now being recognised as serious, impactful ventures.
Underneat, in many ways, represents that shift. It is not trying to sell an unrealistic ideal. Instead, it focuses on how people actually want to feel in their bodies. Comfortable, supported, and confident.
