Category: Spotlight

Spotlight

The Inspiring Journey of Shravya Pai: Founder of Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai

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As we delve into the world of fashion, we often come across stories of passion, dedication, and perseverance. One such story is that of Shravya Pai, the founder of Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai, a fashion brand that embodies the principles of simplicity, creativity, and self-love.

Shravya’s love affair with fashion began at a tender age. Growing up, she would often experiment with her mother’s dupatta, draping it into various outfits and creating her own unique designs. This innate passion for fashion was evident in her early years, and it only grew stronger with time.

However, life had other plans for Shravya. Her parents, like many others, encouraged her to pursue a more traditional career path. Shravya went on to complete her BCA and PGDM in Human Resources & Finance, landing a job in the corporate world. Though she excelled in her role, her heart remained in fashion.

The year 2024 marked a significant turning point in Shravya’s life. She finally decided to take the leap and pursue her passion for fashion. With the support of her family, Shravya launched Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai, a fashion brand that would go on to embody her values and aesthetic.

The Brand’s Philosophy

Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai is more than just a fashion brand – it’s a reflection of Shravya’s personal philosophy. The brand’s name, Ātmansneh, is derived from two Sanskrit words: “ātmā” meaning soul or true self, and “sneh” meaning love. This name encapsulates the brand’s core values: self-love, simplicity, and creativity.

Shravya’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of her brand. From sourcing fabrics from Indian artisans to upcycling old outfits, Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint. The brand’s focus on sustainable fashion practices is a testament to Shravya’s vision for a more responsible and eco-friendly fashion industry.

Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai is proud to be a Made in India brand. Shravya’s love for Indian culture and heritage is reflected in every outfit, with intricate designs and patterns that pay homage to the country’s rich textile tradition.

Shravya’s brand is not just about fashion; it’s also about empowering women. Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai provides employment opportunities to talented women artisans, giving them a platform to showcase their skills and creativity.

As Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai completes its first year, Shravya is looking forward to expanding her brand’s reach and offerings. With plans to complete her Fashion Designer Certification and continue to provide employment opportunities to women artisans, Shravya is poised to make a lasting impact on the fashion industry.

Shravya Pai’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From her early days of experimenting with fashion to launching her own brand, Shravya’s story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever dreamed of pursuing their passion. As Ātmansneh by Shravya Pai continues to grow and evolve, one thing is certain – Shravya’s love for fashion and her commitment to sustainability will remain at the forefront of her brand.

Spotlight

The Lens of Life: Harsh Kamat’s Journey as a Photographer

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In the world of photography, it’s not just about capturing moments, but also about telling stories that evoke emotions, spark connections, and leave a lasting impact. For Harsh Kamat, a talented photographer from Goa, his lens has been a window to the world, allowing him to document life’s beauty, complexity, and simplicity.

From his early days of experimenting with camera phones to his current projects and collaborations, Harsh’s photography journey has been a testament to his passion, creativity, and dedication. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Harsh’s world, exploring his inspirations, experiences, and perspectives on photography and life.

For Harsh, the spark that ignited his passion for photography was his father’s camera phone. “Those were the days when camera phones had just arrived in the Indian market, and my father had one,” he recalls. “I’d be super excited every time I would take it in my hand and take some pictures on the same.” This early fascination with photography laid the foundation for Harsh’s future endeavors.

As Harsh grew older, his interest in photography only deepened. He pursued his passion by taking courses and practicing regularly. “It’s the process of practicing regularly and experimenting that develops your skill,” he emphasizes. This dedication to his craft has enabled Harsh to develop a unique style that blends technical expertise with creative vision.

For Harsh, photography is not just about capturing moments; it’s about telling stories that resonate with others. “I love to tell stories, and I love to shoot almost every day,” he says. This passion for storytelling has led Harsh to work on various projects, from documenting real-life stories to capturing the beauty of everyday moments.

Throughout his journey, Harsh has had the opportunity to work with several notable photographers and artists. One of his most significant collaborations has been with Common Thread Media, a media firm that works in the social development sector. “Working with Common Thread Media has been a highlight of my career,” Harsh says. “It’s allowed me to work on projects that promote social development and tell real-life stories.”

So, what inspires Harsh’s creativity? “I find inspiration in everyday moments,” he says. “Observing the world around me keeps my creative vision fresh.” This ability to find inspiration in the mundane has enabled Harsh to develop a unique perspective that sets his photography apart.

For those aspiring to follow in Harsh’s footsteps, his advice is simple yet profound: “Just go out there and click.” He believes that the key to success lies in perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to learn. “To be able to take up your passion as a profession, to be able to tell stories through your pictures, is an ultimate joy and privilege,” Harsh says.

As Harsh looks to the future, he is excited to explore new opportunities and challenges. “I want to let it flow like a river, not plan it,” he says. With his passion, creativity, and dedication, Harsh Kamat is sure to continue making a name for himself in the photography world.

Harsh Kamat’s journey as a photographer is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and dedication. Through his lens, he has captured the beauty, complexity, and simplicity of life, telling stories that evoke emotions, spark connections, and leave a lasting impact. As we gaze through Harsh’s lens, we are reminded of the importance of living in the moment, observing the world around us, and telling stories that matter.

Sports, Spotlight

Meet Denzil Franco: The Footballer Turned Athlete Director

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Denzil Franco’s passion for football is contagious. As a former international footballer and current Athlete Director at the Denzil Franco Football School, he’s dedicated to nurturing young talent and promoting football development in India.

A Childhood Dream
Growing up in Goa, Denzil was naturally drawn to football. His biggest influences were his family, coaches, and players he admired, both locally and internationally. Legends like Roberto Carlos and Cafu inspired him, but it was his late father, Joe Franco, who pushed him to pursue his passion.

International Career Highlights
Denzil’s international career was marked by several highlights, including winning the SAFF Championship and playing in the AFC Challenge Cup. He was also part of the National Squad that won the Nehru Cup in 2012, defeating Cameroon. Being part of the national team and contributing to Indian football on that stage was an unforgettable experience.

Coaching Philosophy
Denzil’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, technical skills, and a strong mentality. He believes that talent alone is not enough; players need the right guidance, exposure, and work ethic to succeed. His approach focuses on developing players holistically, ensuring they improve technically, mentally, and physically.

The Denzil Franco Football School
After his playing career, Denzil wanted to give back to the sport by nurturing young footballers. The Denzil Franco Football School (DFFS) was born from this desire, aiming to create a structured grassroots program where kids can develop in a professional yet enjoyable environment.

Identifying and Developing Young Talent
Denzil looks for technical ability, decision-making, work ethic, and attitude when evaluating young players. He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, adaptability, and fitness levels in assessing a player’s potential.

Future Plans and Collaborations
Denzil is working on expanding the DFFS reach, providing more players with quality training. He’s exploring collaborations to offer better training, facilities, and career pathways for young footballers.

A Message to Young Footballers
Denzil’s advice to young footballers is to remain patient, work hard, and persevere. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, dedication, and continuous learning in achieving success.

Spotlight

The Wheelchair Warrior: Dr. Sai Kaustuv Dashgupta Appointed Brand Ambassador by Global Book of Excellence

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In a momentous occasion, Dr. Sai Kaustuv Dashgupta, India’s first Disabled Certified Happiness Coach and National Awardee, has been appointed the Brand Ambassador of Karnataka by the prestigious Global Book of Excellence, England. This recognition is a testament to Dr. Dashgupta’s unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and global motivation.

A Champion of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Despite being born with brittle bone disease, which has left him with 90% disability, Dr. Dashgupta has defied all odds to become a beacon of inspiration for millions. With over 1,000 motivational sessions under his belt, he has inspired global leaders and advocated for inclusive workplaces. His relentless efforts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Certificate of Excellence from the Global Book of Excellence, England.

A TEDx Speaker, UN-Recognized Disability Leader, and D-30 Disability Impact Honoree
Dr. Dashgupta’s impressive resume boasts an array of distinguished titles. As a TEDx speaker, he has shared his inspiring story with a global audience. His work has also been recognized by the United Nations, which has honored him as a disability leader. Furthermore, he has been conferred with the D-30 Disability Impact award, a testament to his tireless efforts in promoting inclusivity.

Empowering Millions through Happiness Unlimited
Dr. Dashgupta’s initiative, Happiness Unlimited, is a testament to his commitment to fostering a more inclusive world. Through this platform, he continues to break barriers and inspire millions. As the Brand Ambassador of Karnataka, he pledges to empower millions more, using his platform to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and motivation.

A Visit to Goa: Spreading Inspiration and Inclusivity
Dr. Dashgupta will soon be visiting Goa, where he will attend the Global Book of Excellence event. This visit is expected to inspire a new generation of leaders, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in all spheres of life.

A New Era of Inclusivity and Empowerment
As Dr. Dashgupta embarks on this new chapter as Brand Ambassador, he is poised to inspire a global movement. His story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. As he continues to empower millions, his legacy will inspire generations to come.

Spotlight

Meet Veda Sanjay Dalvi, the Founder of Mingling Treats

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Meet Veda Sanjay Dalvi, the Founder of Mingling TreatsIn the world of chocolates, few names shine as bright as Mingling Treats. Founded by Veda Sanjay Dalvi, this homegrown brand has taken the chocolate-loving community by storm with its decadent, handcrafted treats. We sat down with Veda to learn more about her journey, her passion for chocolates, and what makes Mingling Treats so special.


Veda’s love affair with chocolates began long before Mingling Treats was born. “I’ve always had a passion for making desserts, especially chocolates,” she reveals. “I realized that what I truly love is creating new flavors and sharing them with others, so I thought, why not turn this passion into something bigger?” And thus, Mingling Treats was launched on February 13th, with a focus on decadent homemade chocolates that would indulge people’s sweet tooth and bring them moments of joy and celebration.


At Mingling Treats, Veda focuses on three rich and luxurious chocolate bases: dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. “What makes these bases unique is not just their high-quality ingredients, but also the love and attention I pour into each one,” she explains. Each chocolate base is carefully crafted to offer a distinct flavor profile, from the slightly bittersweet dark chocolate to the creamy and comforting milk chocolate and the delicate balance of sweetness and creaminess in the white chocolate.


So, what makes Mingling Treats’ chocolates so irresistible? Veda’s fudge truffles, in particular, have become a best-seller. “The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the slow, meticulous process of crafting them,” she reveals. Made with a blend of fresh cream and high-quality chocolate, the truffles are rich, velvety, and melt-in-your-mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness.


Veda is always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. “I recently tried my hands on salted coffee milk chocolate — the combination of rich milk chocolate and the bold kick of coffee, with a touch of salt, creates a truly irresistible flavor,” she shares. Her personal favorite flavor combination is the milk chocolate with roasted almond. “The crunchy almonds pair perfectly with the smooth, creamy milk chocolate, making it a deliciously satisfying treat.”


Starting and running a food business can be challenging, but Veda has learned to stay organized and focused. “The most challenging part has definitely been juggling the creative side of the business with the more logistical aspects,” she admits. However, she’s built a system that helps her keep track of everything, and she’s been lucky to receive great feedback from her customers.


In the next 6-12 months, Veda hopes to grow Mingling Treats further by expanding her reach and introducing new products. She’s planning to collaborate with local businesses and participate in more events to share her chocolates with a wider audience. Long-term, she’d love for Mingling Treats to be recognized as a brand that stands for quality, creativity, and indulgence in the chocolate world.


To anyone starting out in the food business, Veda’s advice is to follow your passion but also be prepared to learn the ins and outs of running a business. “It’s important to be patient, stay consistent, and always listen to your customers,” she emphasizes. “They’ll guide you toward what works!”