“In a world filled with challenges and separations, my parents found themselves apart. While my dad didn’t quite resonate with me, it was my mom who took on the role of the unwavering pillar in our lives, handling everything with love, care and determination.

My younger brother and I spent countless days in solitude as Mom worked tirelessly to provide for us. Our family outings were always a dream only. Amidst it all, the women in my life, my mother and Paati (grandmother), instilled in us the belief that we could defy any stereotypes, proving to the world that girls aren’t anyway lesser.

In my teenage years, rebellion coursed through my veins, yet my Paati remained my guiding light. Though I showered her with less affection during my early years, it was later that I truly realised the significance of her presence, after her demise. A sense of independence began to take root within me, an understanding that I must learn to care for myself.

Life took a pivotal turn during my 12th grade when my parents divorced officially. My brother chose to stay with my dad, displaying a maturity beyond his years in handling financial and familial matters. His decision-making was admirable. I was his companion and he was mine, during our childhood. And we found companionship through TV shows as I was very bad in academics.

I hated mugging up and thus, scored the least, increasing my hatred for studying. I remember only the answers to my ‘Why’ questions. For those that I don’t get answers, I don’t hear them up. The unexpected discovery of a passion for makeup, a realm I hadn’t foreseen, altered my course. Besides my BBM degree, I also did jobs as a host in event management companies, which helped me with my expenses. Nevertheless, I understood that those were unstable jobs.

I opted for stability, embarking on a journey in the healthcare industry in 2012. Leadership and communication skills propelled me to the position of branch manager at just 21.

In 2015, destiny led me to Bangalore, where I embraced a role in customer relationship management for an e-commerce company. Amidst the bustling city, I met my man in the same company, who is my husband now. A year later, we tied the knot.

Uninterested in a conventional job after marriage, I yearned to delve into the world of makeup. A collection of over 50 lipstick shades was a testament to my affinity. I decided to join a makeup course, a decision that would cost over a lakh of rupees. My husband, hailing from a different culture, embraced my dreams and supported me wholeheartedly. The course itself was a leap of faith, as I lacked even the basics of makeup application.

Six weeks of intense training followed, and while my foundation was shaky, I emerged with newfound skills. The struggle was an integral part of my journey. I became a professional make-up artist in 2019 but recognition began trickling in around 2023, marking the fruition of my dedication.

Amidst my blossoming career, I found myself pregnant with my daughter in 2019, a challenging time as COVID-19 gripped the world. Weddings were postponed, and the makeup industry faced unprecedented challenges. Waterproof makeup emerged as a trend, and the fear of lagging behind compelled me to do my research on the trends. I did my entire research by trying out different alternatives before taking it to the public eye.

Doubts clouded my mind, but a determination to stand out propelled me to research and experiment. Videos became my canvas, a means to share my newfound expertise. The response was overwhelming, resonating with countless individuals who faced similar struggles. It was then that I realized life’s adversities are but opportunities in disguise.

Makeup classes became my platform, where I empowered others to conquer their challenges. I started answering all the challenging questions that the makeup artists had gone through. I made it so clear that this is also a profession and encouraged my followers and students to ask questions before thinking about alternatives. Despite my busy schedule, I always found time to connect with my students, though I might get back after a while.

My biggest strength till date is my closest friend and guide, Preethi, with whom I keep sharing, conversing or arguing about anything for more than 15 years now. We are together running the business and without her, many of my accomplishments might have gone in vain.

Life’s challenges, though daunting, can be overcome with resilience, passion to learn something new, and dedication.”