Goa Tycoon - JANUARY ISSUE 2024

Tycoon

Volume 3

Issue 1

January 2024

Navigating the business and startup landscape in Goa

COVER FEATURE

Dr Subodh Kerkar & Sharada Kerkar

Dr. Subodh Kerkar, founder of the Museum of Goa (MOG) in Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, Operational Head of MOG and co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS) in Pilerne.

Ana Margarida Esteves

A Portuguese designer who founded the brand "Mar Salgado".

Hypergro.ai

A startup revolutionising the advertising industry particularly in short video content.

Cover Image: Subodh & Sharada Kerkar

‘THE SHOP’ BY KABIR SINGH

Sustainable craftsmanship with contemporary eco-conscious fashion.

Green Aura, the brainchild of Tricia and Vincent Saldanha in Porvorim, Goa, has been greening homes since September 2020 with an array of budget-friendly, low-maintenance plants perfect for every occasion.

Venture beyond with Devine Dezinz by Sunitaa, a concept born in Dubai in 2010 that transcends conventional entrepreneurship.

Under the guidance of Sunitaa Mathur, it melds healing and spiritual empowerment into transformative life experiences.

Editorial

And meet Ashwini Pai Dukle, who, since October 2014, has turned her passion for art

Dear Readers,

and craft into a flourishing enterprise, Ashwini's Creativity, in Rawanfond, Margao,

As the vibrant hues of the festive season fade into the soft pastels of a New Year, I welcome you to the January 2024 issue of Goa Tycoon.

Gracing our cover this month are Dr. Subodh Kerkar and Sharada Kerkar, visionaries who have woven the cultural tapestry of Goa with threads of creativity and learning. Dr. Subodh, the founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, has been instrumental in

Goa. Her venture is a vibrant celebration of creativity, bringing joy and colour to everyday life through her handcrafted pieces.

In other news that is as heartwarming as it is inspiring, we are elated to share the success of the 'International Purple Fest, Goa-2024'.

This pioneering inclusive festival, India’s first of its kind, recently unfurled its embrace from

shaping the artistic landscape of the region,

the 8th to the 13th of January, celebrating the

while Sharada, the Operational Head of MOG

spirit and potential of persons with disabilities.

and co-founder of the Children's Art Studio (CAS), Pilerne, has nurtured the seeds of

The festival, a joint initiative by Goa's State

creativity in the younger generation.

Commissionerate of Disabilities, Social Welfare Directorate, and India's

In this edition, we delve into the world of Ana

Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

Margarida Esteves, a Portuguese designer

Department, has established a new standard

whose brand "Mar Salgado," established in

for inclusivity and empowerment.

2022, is a testament to the beauty of imperfection, crafting unique products that stand at the intersection of art and design.

We also spotlight Hypergro.ai, a Goan startup from November 2022, that's carving a niche in the advertising realm, especially in the dynamic domain of short video content, promising a seismic shift in digital outreach strategies.

The festival is more than just an event; it's a movement celebrating diversity, turning barriers into bridges, and honouring individual strengths.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of Goa Tycoon. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

"The Shop," under the aegis of Kabir Singh, harmonises half a century of sustainable

Until next month, cheers!

craftsmanship with the modern sensibilities of eco-conscious fashion, presenting an

Warm regards,

enduring narrative of tradition and

Jessyl Fernandez

environmental stewardship.

Editor

Index 01 Dr Subodh Kerkar & Sharada Kerkar

02 Ana Margarida Esteves

03 Hypergro.ai

04 ‘The Shop’ By Kabir Singh

05 Green Aura

06 Devine Dezinz by Sunitaa

07

Ashwini's Creativity

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Introduction

Content Manager

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast

Steve Antao

of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palm-fringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud

Graphics & Layout

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anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old

Social Media Manager

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Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where

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the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of

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Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

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culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa.

We were able to showcase Goa like never

before. Soon our blog-based website

transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, UK, USA, etc.

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cover feature

Dr Subodh Kerkar &

Sharada Kerkar Dr Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, Operational Head of Museum of Goa and co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS), Pilerne.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: MOG

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Dr Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS), Pilerne, aim to make art accessible to all via the Museum and Studio.

In conversation with Goa Tycoon, Dr Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, Operational Head of Museum of Goa and co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS), Pilerne, shared their collective dream to make art accessible to everyone in India, irrespective of their upbringing or background. Their initiatives, the Museum of Goa and the Children’s Arts Studio, offer platforms for artists to showcase their works and for art lovers to expose themselves to contemporary art forms.

Excerpts from an interview with Dr. Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa, Pilerne

Tell us a bit about yourself and your early life in Goa.

My father was an artist and had also done his master's in literature. He tried making a living with his art in Mumbai but did not succeed. Rather disappointed, he came back to Goa. He then became a school teacher in Margao, but painted during his free time. In those days, the salaries of teachers were really low. Finances were tight, so he painted to

subsidise his income more than for the passion of it. Of course, he liked painting, but the driving force was subsidising the income. That’s how we, as kids, got interested in art but never thought we would take it up as a profession. We loved it because my father also loved it.

What inspired you to transition from being a doctor to becoming a sculptor/artist?

I was a good student, I stood 7th in the Board and my father was poor and always sick due to depression. Back then, we thought it was a heart problem and there used to be doctors coming in all the time. So the medical profession did attract me – but then I was interested in everything. I was interested in becoming an engineer, author, and even the Prime Minister of India. My father had instilled a lot of dreams in me and I wanted to become everybody except a mafia don, soldier, priest or shopkeeper. I could not become a musician because I was not good at it. But apart from these five occupations, there was hardly anything that I didn't want to become.

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A shot of the colourful exhibits at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne.

Tell us a bit about the Museum of Goa. (When it was founded, a brief overview of the various artefacts on display at the museum, a brief about the various events held at the museum, etc.)

What motivated you to establish this museum?

The Museum of Goa was founded in 2015. The Museum is a kind of statement about my commitment to social causes. I was a doctor and when I gave up medicine due to an accident from which I quickly recovered and started with art, it took me ten years to understand what art truly is.

Many people feel that they are artists because they can draw something realistic, but that does not make an artist. Art is not a skill. Yes, skill is required, but apart from that, other things are required, too.

It took me almost 10 years to understand it because of the switch in careers, and art requires proper study and a lot of exposure. To become an artist, one needs to train their eyes to identify finer details in their works and the works of others the same way a singer trains their ears to capture the finer nuances of certain notes.

After starting to develop an understanding of art, I realised that in a country of 1.4 billion people, not more than two lakh people connect with contemporary art and they have no idea what it is.

I am not talking about farmers and labourers, but I'm talking about the CEOs of companies, architects, designers, doctors, and engineers. I can't blame them because they were never exposed to art.

So the idea that I'm going to create work that will be only seen by hardly two lakh people scared me.

Of course, you don't create art for two lakh people, you create art for yourself, but you still need an audience. A singer does not perform in a barren desert, but to a crowd; hence, the same theory applies to visual art.

I realised that there is a cultural barrier in the country — that contemporary art is only for the privileged. So I decided that I must create a museum of contemporary art where I can democratise art. So in a nutshell, I wanted to become the ‘Tukaram’ of contemporary art.

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What challenges did you face during the establishment of MOG and how did you overcome them?

What advice would you give to young artists and enthusiasts who aspire to pursue a career in the arts, especially in the context of Goa?

I got some money after selling a house. I was 55 years old at the time. My friends advised me to take the money and live happily ever after. However, creating the Museum was a dream of mine and so I did. I didn't think about the business, it was an act of passion. It was like falling in love. There were challenges, but at the same time, there weren't many. I am a positive person, I wanted to do it and I did it. There were financial difficulties but not much.

This advice to everybody is that one has to be honest and sincere to oneself. Gandhi has a very interesting quote on how to be happy. If you start thinking something, you say something different and you do something completely different, then you can never be happy because you might be able to fool the whole world, but when you go back home and put your head on the pillow, you know what kind of person you are. Hence, you can never be happy if there is no synchrony between your thoughts, your words and your actions. If you are creating art, be sincere about it. Many times you create art that is decorative and selling and it's fine. I also did that and even do that sometimes now and that is fine.

You have to be clear because you are doing a decoration since you need money, but your true pursuit is to create something that you completely believe in.

Could you share some of your proudest achievements as a sculptor and the founder of MOG?

One of the biggest achievements was when 10 farmers from Sindudurg came to visit the Museum. I spoke to them and asked them why they had travelled so far to visit the Museum. They said that from their village, there was a farmer who had visited and he liked it so much that he went back and told the others to pay a visit.

The audience is engrossed while listening to an expert deliver a talk and presentation during a recently held MOG Sundays Talk at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne.

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Sharada Kerkar, Operational Head of the Museum of Goa, Pilerne, giving a tour of the museum to visitors.

Is there anything else you would like to share with

Excerpts from an interview with Sharada

our readers/viewers, especially those who have a

Kerkar, Operational Head of Museum of Goa

keen interest in art, culture and museums?

and co-founder of Children Arts Studio, Pilerne

More private players should be involved in the

Tell us a bit about yourself and your

promotion of art. There should be more art education

background in the field of art.

in schools. Right now, art education consists of sketching after you finish studying maths, physics,

My educational background comprises a

chemistry and biology. Then the teacher will draw a

Master’s degree in Public Policy with a focus on

mango and ask the students to draw the same. Art

building social enterprises.

education is very important because we have to

professional background, I have been working

realise that human civilisation is born in the womb of

for eight years in the education sector, with a

art and without art, there is no civilisation. The history

focus on skill development and women’s

of human civilisation is essentially the history of art. I

empowerment. I spent a lot of time working

am not saying this only about paintings and

with government schools in Rajasthan, where I

sculptures, but all the arts. Without art, we are but

utilised art as a tool for learning.

As for my

animals. This has to be realised and art has a huge role in making us happy. It is not just about creating

I integrated theatre, music and dance to

art but also enjoying art, because when you connect

facilitate better outcomes in learning methods

with art, you become more plural and tolerant.

for subjects like mathematics, science, Hindi,

Empathy is the foundation of art.

geography, etc. I also used art as a tool to communicate social issues to the local

To put it in Hindi-language poet Ashok Vajpeyi’s

communities in the village, among the teachers,

words, “When you are alone and you're shedding a

panchayat and others. That’s when I realised

tear, you are unhappy and you look at the stars and

that art has a very important role in

you know maybe there is a star up there who is also

communicating ideas, facilitating learning and

shedding a tear for you.” These kinds of thoughts

bringing about dialogue. It was only later on that

come to you; this is art and poetry and that’s what

I delved into art for the sake of art, where it can

makes our life happy and bearable.

be utilised to express ideas.

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I don't have a professional artistic background;

The idea gradually developed and finally, in 2023,

however, art has been a critical part of my

CAS came into being with a defined vision and

upbringing and have always been encouraged to

mission to become a space that is open to children

appreciate and create art. I have travelled to many

for uninhibited experimentation and exploration of

places across the world, including the rural areas

the arts.

where I have both observed and worked with craftsmen and have also been to distinguished

What is the mission and vision of the studio?

museums in the country where I have seen contemporary art.

Art has become a core part of who I am and that’s slowly helped me shape the Children’s Art Studio (CAS) and slowly move to a space where children could thrive in a space where art is celebrated and they get to use art to express themselves.

What inspired you to establish the Children's Art Studio at the Museum of Goa?

Children have always visited the Museum of Goa through schools, but I think it was in 2018 that we

The Children's Art Studio has shaped itself with a larger vision and mission to become a space that is open for experimentation and exploration of the arts for children. It is a free space where you can experiment with different forms of art and techniques and openly express and create whatever you want without any judgement.

Can you share any success stories or remarkable transformations you've witnessed among children who have participated in the programs conducted at the Children's Art Studio?

held our first children’s art exhibition. We worked with artists like Chaitali Morajkar and others in Goa

When you look at the children engaged at the

to bring in 90 children to create different works

Children’s Art Studio, there’s a sense of wonder and

under various themes. It was massively successful,

happiness. They are always so engaged and give us

as thousands of children from various schools

positive feedback which makes me believe we are

visited, and were inspired to create art themselves

doing the right thing. We pride ourselves on

and we subsequently conducted several

improving our young participants’ motor skills.

workshops. This made us realise that the space at

Tearing and sticking paper strips with gum, picking

the Museum of Goa needs to accommodate and be

up objects and placing them in a certain manner,

accessible to children, be children-friendly and

moulding with clay and building new objects with it

engage children to comfortably work with the arts.

— all these things enhance motor skills.

Mukhbat, a theatre performance by Theatre Flamingo at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne.

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At the Children’s Art Studio, we encourage children

Some children like to sit on the floor and create,

to make their own decisions. We don’t give them

some children like to sit at the table, some children

step-by-step instructions as we want them to build

like to use a pallet, some children like to just mix

a unique identity through their creations. They

outside on the table and we have created a space

have to rely on their strengths, knowledge, and

that enables that and also allows that. We don't

skills to create artwork. When they do create it

want to restrict the children when they are out

themselves, it instils in them a sense of confidence;

there to create. They are so fascinated that they

they learn to make decisions at every step to

just mix all the colours and their palette on the

create whatever they have to and I think that also

table to make new colours so we see that freedom

builds their decision-making skill set. If you tell 10

of creation that enables them to think innovatively.

children to draw a mermaid, you will end up with 10 different versions of it — and all are acceptable

If you are creating art, be sincere about it. Many

and celebrated. This helps them build confidence in

times you create art that is decorative and selling

their creations.

and it's fine. I also did that and even do that sometimes now and that is fine. You have to be

CAS encourages teamwork and collaboration

clear because you are doing a decoration since you

because workshops are always conducted in larger

need money, but your true pursuit is to create

groups and there is a lot of sharing of tables,

something that you completely believe in.

paints, and working together on certain processes.

Another thing that we focus on at CAS is ‘messy is

Is there anything else you would like to share

beautiful’. Often, at home and in schools, we are

with our readers/viewers, especially those who

very protective of the furniture that we have

have a keen interest in art, culture and museums?

around us, but CAS has been designed in a way where we can be extremely careless and messy in

More private players should be involved in the

our process of creating art.

promotion of art. There should be more art education in schools. Right now, art education consists of sketching after you finish studying maths, physics, chemistry and biology. Then the teacher will draw a mango and ask the students to draw the same. Art education is very important because we have to realise that human civilisation is born in the womb of art and without art, there is no civilisation. The history of human civilisation is essentially the history of art. I am not saying this only about paintings and sculptures, but all the arts. Without art, we are but animals. This has to be realised and art has a huge role in making us happy. It is not just about creating art but also enjoying art, because when you connect with art, you become more plural and tolerant. Empathy is the foundation of art.

To put it in Hindi-language poet Ashok Vajpeyi’s words, “When you are alone and you're shedding a tear, you are unhappy and you look at the stars and you know maybe there is a star up there who is also shedding a tear for you.” These kinds of thoughts come to you; this is art and poetry and that’s what makes our life happy and bearable.

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Experts are invited to the Children’s Arts Studio, Pilerne, to conduct a variety of workshops that help stimulate children’s fine motor skills.

What challenges have you faced while running the Children's Art Studio, and how have you overcome them?

CAS is located within the Museum space which is a benefit in one way but also a challenge. We get several children who come in with their parents to see the Museum and can benefit from the services of CAS but at the same time, we want to reach out to local audiences as well. The long commute to the Museum becomes a little tedious to some across Goa who wish to access the workshops that we offer. We have slowly tried to work on this challenge by creating workshops outside of the Museum area and taking CAS to the people.

As much as we would want to cater to the needs of children with learning or physical disabilities, we’ve not yet been able to do it professionally.

While this place is still open to all children, we do not have the staff nor finances to accommodate that yet, so that’s one challenge that we’re yet to bridge.

Brief us about the various exhibitions and events that have been conducted to date at Children's Art Studio. Have you collaborated with other organisations or artists to enhance the studio's offerings?

CAS has conducted several events over the years.

Before it was christened CAS, we held a workshop and exhibition where 90 students from Goa

created works on a t-shirt, out of waste and created works based on Pablo Picasso’s work.

Around 2,000 children collaborated over 2 months to create a large carpet-like ‘godhadi’ (traditional hand quilting technique in India) where they used textile waste to create their portrait which was then woven into a large ‘godhadi’. That was an installation and collaborative project we did with students.

We’ve conducted several drawing competitions at the Museum where 150 to 200 children participated. We’ve collaborated with different educators and artists in Goa to conduct workshops on gardening, theatre, dance, stopmotion animation, papier-mâché and clay.

Do you reach out to schools and families to encourage their participation in art education programs conducted at the Children's Art Studio?

Yes, we do reach out to schools where we do guided tours of the museum with students followed by an art activity where they create a small work that they can take back home or collaborative works that they can take into their schools and hang in their classrooms. We get in touch with these schools through WhatsApp groups, parent groups, and teacher groups. We also conduct outreach programs where we get in touch with new parents and guardians. We also have a social media page that takes the word out to many across Goa.

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What are your plans for the Children's Art Studio?

Any upcoming projects or initiatives you would like

We recently had a very successful collaboration with Godrej Design Lab where we conducted workshops for children in Bombay and we

to share?

created these recycle masks using the waste that There are several plans for CAS, the first of which is designing and launching an official website for the

came from the Godrej factories. The children created a mask to depict the character that would protect the future as it was created using

Studio.

recycled materials. Building such partnerships The second would be to conduct regular programs at CAS. We are also planning on creating workshops at CAS for adults to bring out their inner child.

helps us get in touch with children across the country and also supports us with certain outreach goals.

There are several upcoming programmes that we have in mind. One is to look at long-term workshops. We are also planning on publishing books where children have created characters out of clay during workshops and done an entire character-

The other goal would be to also create a programme specifically for underprivileged children. We realised that the industrial area that we are currently based in has many spaces where the children of migrant communities live and they

building exercise.

are granted full access to CAS. However, we The third would be to look at building more partnerships to take CAS outside of Goa. We first plan to take it to other cities in Goa. Right now, we are more focused on the northern region but then take it to Panaji and then slowly to the South and also to other cities in the country.

don’t have an organised programme specifically for them and often we find them sitting around CAS playing games or doodling. So, we would like to look at designing a programme for them which would be free of charge, so we need to also raise funds for these.

Children excitedly show off their creations after a workshop conducted by an expert artist at the Children’s Arts Studio, Pilerne.

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We are also working on the ‘Pillow Project’, where children will be asked to draw their dreams or nightmares, and even dreams that they have for themselves in the future on a pillow cover.

These will be put on pillows which will then be displayed in the Museum. We would like to take this workshop to different parts of Goa and different parts of the country as well.

What advice would you give to parents and educators who want to nurture creativity and artistic skills in children?

It would mainly be to stop advising children when they are creating. Often, as parents or grownups, we impose a high degree of realism when it comes to art.

We should let children express themselves in whatever shapes or colours catch their fancy.

If a child draws a mango with eyes or a horse with six legs and two tails which is multicoloured, I think we should appreciate it because if the child can imagine something like this maybe it can exist in their worlds. Allowing them to express themselves without judgement and appreciating their efforts is the first thing that we need to do as parents. This is one of the reasons why I often prefer not having parents in the studio while we conduct a workshop because often even if children look for help or advice from their parents it sometimes comes as instructions and therefore we like to keep that away while they create.

Dr Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS), Pilerne, aim to make art accessible to all via the Museum and Studio. www.itsgoa.com

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Dr Subodh Kerkar, founding director of the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne, and Sharada Kerkar, co-founder of Children Arts Studio (CAS), Pilerne, aim to make art accessible to all via the Museum and Studio. www.itsgoa.com

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Based on your experience, what role do you think art plays in fostering a sense of community and cultural

How does MOG engage with the local community in Pilerne and beyond? Are there any outreach programs or initiatives you'd like to

understanding?

highlight?

Many educationists across the world including the father of our nation Mahatma Gandhi believe that art is the foundation of education. Even today, many researchers will tell you that when a child creates art, they are the most free. Art is not just the foundation of education but the very foundation of human civilisation. Art connects people, has the power to change lives, inspires and motivates, makes you think and question, increases awareness and most

In the past, the Museum has created several art installations with the help of the local community.

For example, our major project which was titled ‘Carpet of Joy’ involved the panchayat, the local community members, students from various schools, and different hotels in hospitality chains who donated 1,50,000 waste plastic bottles with which the entire installation was created.

importantly, builds empathy.

Such installations involve a lot of community

In a country like India, with a population of over 1.4 billion, not many are connected with contemporary art.

Only a few lakhs are connected and that is the barrier that we try to bridge at the Museum of Goa. At the Museum of Goa, we try to democratise art and make it accessible. We are one of the largest contemporary art spaces in the country and we receive about 60,000

interaction and support, not just in terms of permissions but also helping in creating the entire installation. We have also gotten in touch with several local organisations, mainly run by the Church, to conduct workshops and outreach programmes and we give them guided tours of the Museum.

visitors every year along with 10,000 children. The idea is to democratise art and make it accessible. For children, we look at the museum as a ‘classroom’ or a ‘playground’, where learning through fun and play go hand in hand. We narrate stories of Goa's history and culture through art.

Recently, we invited the restaurant Florentine’s entire team and gave them a guided tour of the Museum. These seemingly small initiatives helped us build community connections and build our outreach program as a whole.

The MOG Art Cafe at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne, offers visitors a place to sample delicious snacks and drinks.

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Visitors admire the artwork on the wall at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne.

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entrepreneur

Ana Margarida Esteves Ana Margarida Esteves, a Portuguese designer in Carmona, Goa, founded "Mar Salgado" in 2022. Her unique products, crafted from natural materials, blend art and design, highlighting imperfections beautifully.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Ana Margarida Steves

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Cleaning brass on a candle stand by Ana Margarida Esteves In the picturesque village of Carmona, nestled in the coastal haven of South Goa, resides Ana Margarida Esteves, a 34-year-old industrial product and furniture designer. A native of Portugal, Ana has been living in Goa since 2019.

In 2022, she founded an enterprise called "Mar Salgado". The enterprise is a project which aims to encourage people to view nature in a new light by creating unique products from raw materials such as driftwood, abandoned wood, dried coconut husk, and molten metals. Ana's work embraces the intersection of art and design with concepts that are both functional as well as poetic. She designs her products to highlight their imperfections, making them even more beautiful.

Educational Background

Ana's journey in design commenced in 2011 when she began pursuing her studies in Industrial Product Design at the Polytechnic Institute of

Viana do Castelo in Portugal. While pursuing her studies, she forayed into carpentry as a volunteer at a local carpentry workshop. In 2014, she travelled to East Timor and undertook her first art education project over there. She travelled to the country again in 2018 and completed more such projects. She worked under a Japanese master while completing her projects, and experimented working with unconventional materials like coconuts and bamboo.\

After completing her course at the Polytechnic, Ana moved to the UK in 2015 to pursue her postgraduation in Art & Design (with a major in Furniture Design) at New Buckinghamshire University. Here, she got an opportunity to experiment working with different materials. She gradually developed a set of skills, which helped her in combining her passions into unique products. It was also here that she realised that wood was the favourite material she enjoyed working with.

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Ana Margarida Esteves crafted a 6ft-long Red Whale using driftwood and glass

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Her Professional Journey

After completing her post-graduate studies, Ana moved to India in late 2015 to pursue academic research work. She chose India for her academic research as it is a country with multiple cultural influences throughout its states, resulting in different ways of living and use of space and furniture. In India, she worked as an intern for a few months at an education accelerator called Atma Education in Mumbai. During this period, Ana was trying to understand India in the context of socio-economic development and education. She was specifically trying to understand Goa in terms of tourism because the social change accelerator she was working with was supported by a tourism aggregator with a self-sustainable village model.

In 2017, while in Goa, Ana met Mr. Menino D'souza, the then Director of Tourism in Goa, who introduced her to “FiIRE”, a startup incubator based at Fatorda. At that time, “FiIRE” was running a Social Change Accelerator project. Through “FiIRE”, Ana got her business visa and started her social projects in Goa in 2019. She joined “FiIRE” as an incubatee and began running her own startup. Through her enterprise, Ana wanted to work on social projects in several villages of Goa. She thought that there would be more support for her ideas for the betterment of local communities and quality tourism in the state. Unfortunately, things did not turn out the way Ana planned and hoped for.

Didi and Ana typically immerse the wood in the sea as a method of treating it www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

Feeling dejected, Ana moved to Mumbai and planned to meet with the Tourism Minister of Maharashtra to discuss matters related to the same project she was working on, for the coast of Maharashtra. However, all of a sudden, she fell very ill. She was in bed for months, and when she recovered, she returned to Goa in the year 2022.

Since then, Ana has remained in Goa and has been involved in various sustainable projects in the state. She has found in Goa, a new home with many cultural aspects in common with her own roots and the same love and respect for the sea.

The Genesis of “Mar Salgado”

After her return to Goa in 2022, Ana began exploring ways to work with materials she had never worked with before. She kept searching for ways to go beyond working with materials like coconut husk and driftwood because so many beautiful items were already being made with such kinds of materials.

"Tide," a void filled with molten brass, resembling the fluidity of the sea After a series of experiments working with various materials, Ana founded her enterprise called “Mar Salgado" (meaning salted sea in English) in July 2022. The enterprise doles out products with concepts based on the sea and its metaphors.

These products are manufactured using materials such as driftwood, and molten metals. Ana runs “Mar Salgado" out of her workshop in Carmona, South Goa. She is assisted in the running of the enterprise by a carpenter, Bhajan Sarkar, who works with her.

Products Offered and Clients Served

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Most of the products created by Ana at Mar Salgado are pieces of functional art that can be used as home decor and furniture. These are highend, unique pieces of art. So usually, it is clients like art collectors, villa owners, and architects who show an interest in purchasing her products. The starting price of products from Mar Salgado is around Rs. 30K, with the average product being priced around Rs. 50-75K. However, Ana will be soon launching a line of smaller products like small bowls, coasters and other decorative pieces which will be priced at around Rs. 10-15K.

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Bhajan, the carpenter, is currently in the process of carving a basin A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Ana envisions working more with gold instead of brass, exploring 3D poetry, and focusing on the artistic aspect of her work.

Through her work, she also aims to fund the creation of new enterprises under the “Mar Salgado” brand umbrella. These enterprises will be involved in the mass production of various types of products. She aspires to do this because she believes that the livelihood of individuals from the fishing community in Goa will soon be under threat due to climate change.

By starting these new enterprises, she will be able to create employment opportunities for individuals from the Goan fishing community.

This will help in providing alternate avenues of livelihood for them. Ana believes that climate change and other factors will have a great impact on the social net of the coastal communities, and that it is very important to preserve Goan culture. She says that Goa is changing at a fast pace from what has defined its identity for a long time and people are starting to feel demoralised.

She also aims to reinvent the handicraft industry in Goa and plans to engage local Goans in making these handicraft items.

Ana Margarida Esteves stands as a beacon of innovation and social responsibility, using her design prowess to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, sustainability, and artistic expression. Through "Mar Salgado," she not only crafts beautiful pieces of art but also waves of positive change for the communities she holds dear. Mar Salgado will become the pilot for the projects Ana has had all along for Goa. Now with more experience, support and a fresh new perspective, she is sure to bring about a sustainable revolution in Goa in the years to come.

Ana will be participating in two pop-up exhibitions due to be held at the BSG Absolute Porvorim Regency Hotel, Porvorim on the 23rd and 30th of December. Various products from "Mar Salgado" will be displayed for sale at both events.

For more information and to place an order for various products from Mar Salgado, contact Ana at:

Instagram: @marsalgadodesign

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STARTUP

Hypergro.ai Hypergro.ai, a Goa startup launched in November 2022, is quickly revolutionising the advertising industry, particularly in short video content.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images Courtesy: Hypergro.ai

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In the bustling startup ecosystem of Goa, Hypergro.ai stands out as a beacon of innovation and technological advancement. Launched in November 2022, this dynamic startup has quickly become a game-changer in the advertising industry, particularly in the realm of short video content.

The Genesis of Hypergro.ai

The inception of Hypergro.ai can be traced back to the increasing prominence of short video content in advertising and the consequent rise in Customer Acquisition Costs (CAC). Founded by a team of experts from the social media and adtech industries, Hypergro.ai is spearheaded by professionals who have honed their skills at esteemed organisations such as ShareChat, Glance, and InMobi. The fusion of their vast experience has given birth to a startup that not only understands the current market dynamics but also anticipates future trends.

Innovative Services Offering a Competitive Edge

Hypergro.ai’s array of services is tailor-made to address the challenges faced by businesses in the digital era. Their offerings include Short Video Ad Creation: Specialising in creating attention-grabbing short video ads that resonate with the brand's core message AI-Driven Ad Optimisation: Utilising AI algorithms to optimise ad campaigns for maximum impact and efficiency Regional and Vernacular Content Targeting: Crafting content in various regional languages to reach a diverse audience Customer Acquisition Strategies: Focusing on reducing CAC through innovative engagement and conversion tactics.

The Founding Minds Behind the Vision

The founders of Hypergro.ai bring a diverse and rich expertise to the table Rituraj Biswas, CEO: Formerly with Zepto and ShareChat, he has an extensive background in product management and data science Neha Soman, CBO: An IISc researcher with experience in social media and brand marketing at Glance Arijit Mukhopadhyay, COO: An IIT Delhi graduate who played a pivotal role at ShareChat Abhijeet Kumar, CTO: An IIT Roorkee alumnus with significant contributions in the development of the Moj app at ShareChat.

Arijit Mukhopadhyay, COO www.itsgoa.com

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The Driving Force and Future Aspirations

Hypergro.ai was born from a realisation of the untapped potential in short video content for business advertising. The aim was to create ads that integrate seamlessly into the viewer's digital experience, offering value and engagement rather than mere promotion.

Looking forward, Hypergro.ai plans to expand its influence beyond Indian shores, targeting the US market in the next two years. The five-year vision for Hypergro.ai is to become an indispensable tool for digital marketing globally, much like Shopify in the e-commerce space.

Neha Soman, CBO

A Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The founders of Hypergro.ai advise aspiring entrepreneurs in Goa to believe in their ideas, embrace the local culture for inspiration, and remain adaptable in the face of an ever-changing business landscape.

Abhijeet Kumar, CTO

Initial Public Response and Challenges

The public reception of Hypergro.ai was overwhelmingly positive, with creators and brands alike recognising the unique opportunities offered by the platform. However, challenges such as integrating advanced AI technology, gaining market trust, and staying abreast of evolving trends were significant hurdles that the team has been

Rituraj Biswas, CEO

navigating skilfully.

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Lifestyle shop

‘THE SHOP’ BY KABIR SINGH & AISHWARYA SINGH

Kabir and Aishwarya Singh, Directors at 'The Shop' merges 50 years of sustainable craftsmanship with contemporary eco-conscious fashion in Goa, emphasizing tradition and commitment to sustainability.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: The Shop by Kabir Singh

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The newly unveiled, welcoming facade of The Shop at Panaji exudes warmth and charm Kabir Singh, Director and Head of ‘The Shop’, in conversation with Its Goa, shares insights into the brand’s stringent commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability and conscious living that has been inculcated over 50 years. Singh also highlights the reason for Goa being the ideal location for the promotion of eco-conscious fashion and lifestyle ventures and outlines his vision for the company.

Kabir Singh, the dynamic Director of 'The Shop', a brand with a deep-rooted legacy of fifty years in sustainable and artisanal craftsmanship. Kabir, a visionary in the realm of eco-conscious fashion, has skilfully steered 'The Shop' on a path that intertwines traditional practices with contemporary sensibilities. His insights into the brand's evolution, its commitment to sustainability, and the choice of Goa as a pivotal location for their venture are both enlightening and inspiring.

Can you provide a brief overview of The Shop, its founders, and its journey since its founding in 1969?

Singh: The inception of The Shop dates back to 1969, when Kamal Singh and Preminder Singh set out on a journey to create something truly remarkable. Over five decades, this endeavour has evolved into a haven where tradition converges with modern design. Our collections, spanning various categories like clothing and home decor, embody our commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. From the intricate techniques we employ, like hand embroidery and silk screen printing, to our emphasis on eco-friendly practices, every aspect reflects our dedication to preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

At our core lies a belief in honouring our artisans, who breathe life into each creation, preserving the essence of traditional craftsmanship. This, coupled with our desire to create a conscious living experience, forms the essence of The Shop—an ode to heritage, elegance and a harmonious blend of cultures.

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Add a pop of colour to your bedroom with The Shop’s Corsica Aloe Ajrakh printed bed cover

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What motivated the decision to debut in Goa

How has the response been from customers in

through a pop-up at the Museum of Goa?

Goa, and has it influenced the brand's future plans?

Singh: Debuting in Goa through a pop-up at the Museum of Goa in Pilerne was a decision rooted in our desire to connect with a vibrant community passionate about art, culture, and craftsmanship. Goa holds a special place in

Singh: We opened our first Goa store at the Museum of Goa in December 2022 and the response from customers in Goa has been phenomenal and filled with positive energy! Our brand has been embraced with enthusiasm, and we're thrilled to witness the vibrant and lively spirit

celebrating creativity and the Museum of Goa

of the Goan community reflected in their

provided us with an incredible platform to

appreciation for our products. The men’s shirts,

showcase our commitment to artistry and

women’s dresses and co-ord sets are popular items

sustainability. It was an opportunity to share our

in our apparel section and the curtains, cushion

journey, engage with like-minded individuals and

covers and tablecloths in our home category have

weave our ethos of conscious living into the rich tapestry of Goa's cultural landscape. The pop-up at the Museum of Goa connected us with creative minds, which has been amazing. As we venture into Panaji, we aim to broaden our

found several takers. The response from customers in Goa has surpassed our expectations, and it's been incredibly heartening. The enthusiasm and support from individuals who share our values have been truly inspiring. It's led us to seriously consider opening a new permanent store in Goa. The warmth

horizons and tap into a diverse market. This

and resonance of like-minded individuals embracing

expansion marks an exciting new chapter in our

our shop and products have fuelled our aspirations

journey within the vibrant landscape of Goa.

to deepen our roots in this beautiful community.

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The perfect addition to the festive season, a travel gift set to pamper your loved ones, available at The Shop www.itsgoa.com

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What are the various products offered by

What sets The Shop apart in terms of design and

The Shop?

style in the home and interior furnishings market?

Singh: At The Shop, our product range is a

Singh: Our distinctive edge in the home and interior

celebration of artistry and functionality. We

furnishings market stems from our artisanal

offer a wide spectrum of items, starting with our clothing line catering to men, women and kids.

From elegant dresses and kurtas to stylish tops, shirts and bottoms, we strive to cater to diverse tastes and occasions. For the little ones, our collection includes enchanting outfits, cuddly soft toys and wooden games and toys, ensuring

approach to design and commitment to sustainability. We take pride in crafting our prints and reviving old techniques such as Kalamkari, Ajrakh, Shibori or Gudri, where a collective of talented artists and craftsmen create unique and vibrant designs. We prioritise quality, using top-

they have their own space filled with joy and

notch fabrics and materials to ensure excellence in

comfort.

every piece we create. Embracing sustainability, we aim to use natural dyes derived from sources like

When it comes to home decor, we've curated an

madder, indigo and coffee, reflecting our eco-

assortment that adds character to living spaces.

conscious philosophy.

From tablecloths, napkins, bed linens, quilts, throws, cushions and curtains to an array of

Moreover, our dedication to sustainability extends to

home accents, we aim to redefine interiors with

our innovative use of leftover fabric scraps. These

a touch of elegance. Beyond these, our range

remnants are transformed into exclusive bags,

extends to kitchenware, personal care items, accessories and our unique ‘YOU CARE’ line, which repurposes scrap fabrics into innovative and eco-conscious products.

patchwork items, toys and various home decor pieces, showcasing our commitment to both sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

Cosy interior of The Shop's pop-up at the Museum of Goa, Pilerne, Goa

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Could you elaborate on The Shop's commitment to eco-conscious manufacturing and packaging?

Singh: Our commitment to eco-conscious manufacturing and packaging is deeply ingrained in our ethos. We've implemented various practices to minimise our environmental footprint. Recycling water by treating it and utilising every last scrap of leftover fabric underscores our dedication to reducing waste.

Moreover, our stance against plastic is firm. From the packaging of our products to the delivery process, we opt for eco-friendly solutions. Our products are packaged in paper bags, ensuring a sustainable approach at every stage. Additionally, our shopping bags are crafted from leftover fabric, providing a reusable and eco-conscious option for our customers with each purchase. It's all part of our unwavering commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

The Shop prides itself on durable products.

Could you share insights into the materials and design choices that contribute to product durability?

Singh: Our fabric selection is the cornerstone of our commitment to quality. We meticulously source materials like cotton voile, silk, and highquality satin to ensure our products stand out amidst the saturation of low-quality options in the market. We prioritise these premium materials and the best production methods as alternatives, ensuring that each piece reflects our dedication to offering durable and superior-quality products that resonate with our customers.

What challenges has The Shop faced, and how has the company adapted to changes in consumer preferences or industry trends over the years?

Singh: Navigating challenges has been an integral part of our journey at The Shop. Adapting to changes in consumer preferences and industry trends has been both challenging and enlightening.

We've encountered shifts in consumer tastes and market dynamics over the years. To address this, we've remained agile, constantly evolving our designs and offerings to align with changing preferences.

One challenge we've tackled is the influx of lowquality products saturating the market. To counter this, we've stayed committed to sourcing premium materials like cotton voile, silk, and high-quality satin.

This emphasis on quality has been pivotal in distinguishing our brand amidst the competition.

Moreover, as consumer awareness about sustainability and durability grows, we've embraced this shift wholeheartedly. We've focused on crafting durable, long-lasting products that resonate with customers seeking both quality and ethical practices.

Adaptability has been our strength. It's enabled us to not just survive but thrive in an ever-evolving industry, allowing us to maintain our commitment to offering timeless craftsmanship and sustainable living.

What are your future plans and aspirations for The Shop, both in terms of product offerings and market expansion?

Singh: Our journey at The Shop is an ever-evolving adventure, and we're excited about the future. Our aspirations revolve around continuing to offer exceptional products crafted with timeless craftsmanship and sustainability at their core. In terms of products, we're dedicated to expanding our range while staying true to our ethos. We aim to introduce more diverse offerings that echo our commitment to durable, high-quality materials and designs that stand the test of time.

Market expansion is also on our horizon. We're exploring opportunities to further our presence in regions that appreciate our values and craftsmanship. This might include opening new stores or engaging in more pop-ups, all with the aim of sharing our dedication to beautiful living and sustainable practices with even more communities.

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Ultimately, our future plans revolve around staying

products that not only reflect exquisite artistry but

true to our roots while embracing innovation. Our

also contribute to a more sustainable world.

aim is to continue crafting a narrative that celebrates

Regarding upcoming initiatives, we're excited to explore new avenues that further our commitment to

conscious living, elegance, and craftsmanship, ensuring that The Shop remains a beacon of timeless

sustainability and community engagement. Whether it's through innovative collaborations, initiatives

artistry and sustainability, resonating with

supporting artisans or endeavours promoting eco-

communities far and wide.

conscious practices, we're dedicated to making a

positive impact beyond just crafting beautiful Is there anything else you would like to share about products.

The Shop's values, vision, or upcoming initiatives?

Overall, our journey is about weaving a tapestry of Singh: At The Shop, our values of craftsmanship, sustainability and conscious living are at the heart

elegance, sustainability, and meaningful connections. of

We're always looking forward to sharing more stories,

everything we do. Our vision is to continually evolve

fostering deeper engagements and creating a space

while staying true to these principles, offering

where artistry and conscious living converge.

Butterfly Buntings, a decorative item made from scrap fabrics as part of The Shop’s ‘You Care’ collection

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Plants & Decor

Green AURA

Green Aura, founded by Tricia and Vincent Saldanha in Porvorim, Goa, in September 2020, offers budget-friendly, low-maintenance plants for decor, gifts, and special occasions.

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Green Aura

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Joy amidst a beauty of blooms, where every petal tells a story with nature's embrace In the quaint township of Porvorim nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Goa, Tricia, and Vincent Saldanha have cultivated a unique business venture that brings nature's tranquility into homes.

Green Aura, a home-based plant enterprise, blossomed into existence in September 2020, offering a delightful range of low-maintenance greens for decor, gifts, and special occasions—all within the customer's budget.

Founders with a Passion for Nature

A Green Touch to Your Space

Inspiration and Ideation

Green Aura prides itself on being a client-focused micro-business, providing a personalised touch to every creation. From green gift hampers and terrariums to wedding and party favours, ornamental plants, and DIY plant-kits for beginners too. Each product is crafted with love and care, ensuring customer satisfaction with every purchase.

The inception of Green Aura was inspired by the growing demand for greenery in homes and workplaces. The founders envisioned a shift from traditional flower gifting to the gift of growth, nurturing, and plant life. Their passion for nature and sustainable living fuels the essence of Green Aura.

Tricia and Vincent Saldanha, both Goans who spent a significant part of their lives in Kuwait, bring a wealth of experience to Green Aura. Tricia gained and honed her business and design skills from the Architectural-Engineering International firm she use to work for. Vincent, a former banker and owner of a garment business, blends his entrepreneurial spirit with creative skills as a self-entrepreneur.

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Positive Vibes in the Early Days

Challenges and Triumphs

The response from the public during the initial days was overwhelmingly positive. Customers appreciated the business's accommodating nature, especially catering to overseas customers.

Green Aura's accessibility through social media streamlined the ordering process, making it convenient for their customers to inquire, place orders with prompt and timely doorstep deliveries within Goa, without visiting the boutique.

Setting up Green Aura wasn't without its challenges.

Customer feedback became a crucial factor in the success of the enterprise, and the founders embraced a trial-and-error approach to plant propagation. Post-COVID challenges were tackled adeptly, and weather conditions posed hurdles that only strengthened their commitment to plant care.

A Growing Clientele

Supportive Roots

Green Aura's major clients include first-time plant buyers seeking guidance, NGOs, private schools, corporates, collaborations with organisations like WEBN and event planners. The enterprise has found its niche in catering to customers who value the essence of high quality plants and personalised gifting.

The journey of Green Aura was nurtured by the unwavering support of both their sons Travis and Josiah, immediate family, relatives and friends. These pillars of support played a pivotal role in overcoming challenges and establishing the enterprise as a reputable name in the community.

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A Green Future

Words of Wisdom

Looking ahead, Green Aura envisions sharing its knowledge and experiences to promote greens in every home, advocating for environmental care. The founders plan to reach out to pre-schools and schools, encouraging the benefits and necessity of plants and gardening.

In parting, Tricia and Vincent Saldanha share valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs—strive for innovation, stay customer-centric, working passionately with creativity and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Green Aura stands as a testament to their commitment to these principles, bringing the serenity of nature into homes one plant at a time.

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Haworthia charm: A little world of mesmerizing patterns in every leaf

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Multi-dimensional healer

Devine Dezinz

by Sunitaa

Devine Dezinz by Sunitaa, founded in 2010 in Dubai, goes beyond typical entrepreneurship. Led by Sunitaa Mathur, it offers transformative experiences in healing and spiritual empowerment, showcasing the profound impact on life's journey.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Image by: Sunitaa Mathur

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In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, some ventures stand out not just for their products or services, but for the transformative experiences they offer. Devine Dezinz by Sunitaa is one such enterprise that goes beyond conventional boundaries, delving into the realms of healing, guidance, and spiritual empowerment. This spiritual enterprise, which was founded in 2010 in Dubai by Sunitaa Mathur, is a testament to the transformative power of healing and the profound impact it can have on one's life journey.

The Genesis of Devine Dezinz

Sunitaa Mathur, a life design specialist and a multidimensional healer, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in Jaipur back in 1983, delving into the world of creative arts after completing her bachelor's degree with honours in political science. Her artistic prowess led her to specialise in textile designing with a focus on freehand brush painting. As a free-spirited

Prosperity kit Quartz- Crystal ganesha + shree yantra. Laxmi padam + jade shubh labh coins to attract blessings of lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi

freelancer, she collaborated with top fashion designers and boutiques across Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi under the banner 'Dezinz Unlimited.'However, life took an unexpected turn in 2010 when Sunitaa faced a personal loss – the passing of her father. Struggling with grief, she sought solace and healing for her wounded heart, marking the inception of Devine Dezinz. From the ashes of Dezinz Unlimited arose a new path, a spiritual journey dedicated to healing and guiding others.

The Diverse Offerings of Devine Dezinz

Devine Dezinz stands out for its diverse range of healing modalities. Sunitaa employs Crystal Therapy, harnessing the natural energies from crystals sourced from the Earth's core, rivers, seas, and even meteors from the sky. Tarot Card guidance and

Jade Face roller and Gua Sha for healthy n glowing skin

Numerology add layers to the spiritual tapestry, while the cosmic connect through Astrology provides a holistic approach to healing.

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The Visionary Behind Devine Dezinz

A Clientele Beyond Boundaries

Sunitaa Mathur, hailing from the crystal-rich land of

Devine Dezinz boasts a clientele that spans the

Jaipur, is not just an entrepreneur but a passionate

globe. From the royal families of Middle Eastern

practitioner and teacher of Tarot and Crystal

countries to Goa's top industrialists and TV

Therapy. Her extensive knowledge encompasses

celebrities in Mumbai, Sunitaa's healing touch has

Indian Vedic Astrology, Graphology, and various

reached far and wide. Maintaining professional

energy healing techniques from institutes around

ethics, she remains connected to wellness centres

the world. Sunitaa's vision is to offer bespoke

in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, conducting sessions and

healing, tailored to each individual's unique needs.

workshops regularly.

Public Response and Clientele

Challenges and Support

In its early days, Devine Dezinz garnered a serene

The journey to establish Devine Dezinz wasn't

and personal response from the public. Sunitaa's

without challenges. Sunitaa faced skepticism,

one-on-one sessions became a sacred space for

particularly from those close to her, who

individuals to share their innermost thoughts and

questioned her choice to venture into the realms

feelings. The privacy and ethics maintained by

of tarot cards and crystal healing. However, her

Sunitaa endeared her to clients, creating a profound

steadfast determination was fuelled by the

connection that transcended the typical healer-

unwavering support of her husband and daughter,

client relationship.

who became her pillars of strength.

Crystal Grid- a matrix for amalgamation of different crystals' energies

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Future Aspirations

A Message for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Looking ahead, Sunitaa envisions expanding the reach of Devine Dezinz by training more individuals in the art of Tarot Card reading and crystal therapy. Her goal is to create a community of healers who can guide others on their spiritual path, spreading awareness about the natural healing benefits of crystals.

Sunitaa's journey carries a powerful message for aspiring entrepreneurs – never give up on your vision, even if others may not understand it initially. Honesty, positivity, and perseverance are the keys to success.

Be proud, stay unstoppable, and, most importantly, stay true to yourself. In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, Devine Dezinz stands as a beacon of spiritual healing, illuminating the path for those seeking solace and transformation.

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art & crafts

Ashwini's Creativity

Ashwini Pai Dukle turned her art and craft hobby into a thriving business, Ashwini's Creativity, in Rawanfond, Margao, Goa, since October 2014.

Article by: Steve Antao

Image Credit: Ashwini Pai Dukle

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In the quaint town of Rawanfond, Margao, Goa, Ashwini Pai Dukle has turned her passion for art and craft into a thriving business known as Ashwini's Creativity. What started as a way to pass the time in October 2014 has blossomed into a one-stop destination for all gifting needs, capturing the hearts of clients in both South and North Goa.

The Humble Beginnings

Ashwini, a microbiologist by education, transitioned into the world of crafting after leaving her 9-to-5 job in the Quality Control department of a diagnostic company in Verna. The decision came after the birth of her daughter, as the traditional work hours became impractical.

Little did she know that this move would lead her to embark on a creative journey that would define her career.

Diverse Offerings

Ashwini's Creativity stands out for its diverse range of customised products, including themed paper bags, chocolate bouquets, engagement ring platters, wedding antarpaats, and much more. From birthdays to thread ceremonies, baby showers to festive occasions, Ashwini's keen eye for detail and creativity shines through in every product.

Artistic Ventures Beyond Products

Beyond crafting personalised gifts, Ashwini offers a variety of workshops, including handwriting improvement, calligraphy, decoupage, Warli art, coffee painting, mandaladoodle, and dot painting. Her theme-based activities for kids' birthday parties have added an extra dimension to her creative enterprise.

Chocolate aeroplane made as a gifting option for Thread Ceremony

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From Passion to Profession

The transition from a hobbyist to a professional was not without its challenges. Ashwini faced the uncertainties of starting her own venture, from sourcing materials to marketing her products. Yet, through research, dedication, and perseverance, she built Ashwini's Creativity into a recognisable brand.

Clientele and Outreach

Ashwini's main clientele hails from both South and North Goa, with a significant boost in business during engagement and wedding seasons. Through word of mouth and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, her creative works have even garnered attention from clients in Pune and Mumbai.

Ashwini was crowned as "Asturi Queen 2023" for GCCI's Women wing flagship event at Taleigao community hall Made-to-Order Excellence

Unlike mass-produced items, Ashwini takes pride in offering custom-made products. Each creation is unique, ensuring that clients receive a one-of-a-kind item tailored to their specific preferences. Regular updates on social media platforms keep clients informed about her latest creations.

Challenges and Triumphs

Customised Ring platter made for engagement ceremony

Ashwini openly shares her early struggles, highlighting the lack of business knowledge and the demanding nature of handmade products. Late nights and early mornings were a familiar scene, reminiscent of her college exam days. Overcoming these challenges, she has grown both stronger and more confident in running her business.

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Support System and Recognition

Ashwini acknowledges the crucial role played by her support system, including her mother-in-law, parents, husband, daughter, sister, and close friends. Platforms like GoWomania and SheShyns have been instrumental in giving Ashwini's Creativity the visibility it needed in the initial stages.

Looking to the Future

With dreams of setting up her own craft studio, Ashwini aims to expand her offerings and enhance her teaching space for art and craft classes.

Ashwini received Award at Womennovator We Pitch Event at Bits Pilani campus, Goa for pitching my business for 1 minute Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is to work hard, maintain product quality, and embrace healthy competition as a stepping stone to success.

Conclusion

Customized cone sakharpudes (Sugarbox) made for engagement By Ashwini Creativity

Ashwini's Creativity is not just a gifting destination; it is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. Ashwini Pai Dukle's journey from microbiologist to full-time crafter exemplifies the magic that can happen when one follows their dreams with dedication and creativity.

As she continues to inspire others with her story, Ashwini's Creativity remains a shining example of turning dreams into a thriving reality.

www.itsgoa.com

itsgoa_

Itsgoa

www.itsgoa.com

itsgoa_

Itsgoa

www.itsgoa.com

itsgoa_

Itsgoa

www.itsgoa.com

itsgoa_

Itsgoa

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