3 minute read
Vaishnavi Gaonkar - The brain behind the popular food blog ‘Crispy Curry’
Vaishnavi Gaonkar, a native of the picturesque coastal state of Goa, is a woman of many talents. While her professional qualifications led her down the path of law, her true passion lies in exploring the culinary treasures hidden in the nooks and crannies of her beloved Goa and beyond. Known for her popular food blog, "Crispy Curry," Vaishnavi has carved a unique niche for herself in the world of food blogging.
A Goan at Heart
Hailing from the heart of Goa, Panjim, Vaishnavi's roots are firmly grounded in the rich cultural and culinary traditions of this coastal paradise. Despite her childhood dream of becoming a software engineer, her academic journey took a different turn, ultimately leading her to pursue a career in law.
Vaishnavi's journey into the world of food blogging was far from planned. It was a spontaneous decision that sprouted from her deep-seated love for trying
out various cuisines and exploring new eateries. Her friends and family often turned to her for restaurant recommendations, knowing that her palate was welltraveled.
One day, the idea struck her—why not share her experiences with a wider audience? And so, "Crispy Curry" came into existence. Combining her passion for food with her hobby of photography and writing, Vaishnavi set out to document her gastronomic adventures.
A Trailblazer in Goan Food Blogging
A couple of years back food blogging wasn't the phenomenon it is today, and there were only a handful of bloggers in Goa. Vaishnavi was among the pioneers who paved the way for a thriving food blogging community in Goa. She brought a unique perspective to the table, emphasising her love for local spots and street food.
While Vaishnavi enjoys fine dining experiences, her heart truly belongs to the local eateries. She believes that to truly understand a place, one must delve into its local flavours, food, and culture. Her Instagram series, "Exploring Local Restaurants in Goa and the Street Food Spots," has garnered a devoted following eager to join her on these culinary adventures.
Support from Loved Ones
Vaishnavi's journey as a food blogger faced its share of challenges, one of which was gaining the support of her parents. Initially skeptical, her parents eventually embraced her passion as they witnessed her growth and success. In contrast, her friends have been unwavering allies, accompanying her on food excursions, helping with photography and editing, and playing an integral role in her journey.
Future Aspirations
As she continues to grow her presence in the food blogging sphere, Vaishnavi remains focused on honing her craft. She acknowledges the financial challenges that come with being a content creator, where early work is often uncompensated. However, she sees the potential for monetisation as her audience grows and the field of influencer marketing evolves.
A Message to Aspiring Creators
Vaishnavi's journey from law to food blogging underscores the importance of pursuing one's passions fearlessly. She encourages young Goans, and all aspiring creators, not to be overly concerned about the future. Instead, she advises them to embrace new opportunities and give their best efforts, as the satisfaction of trying and the memories created along the way are more valuable than any regrets.
