From being an artist, I transitioned into an interior designer with sheer passion and dedication. I was successful as an artist with several shows to my credit. But I wanted to do more with my creativity. I started designing and styling homes for friends and relatives, which was highly appreciated. That encouraged me to take up more projects, and soon I had a flourishing business. Clients seemed to like my bold approach to handling colours, patterns and luxe touches that brought richness, cheer and positive energy into their homes. I was inspired by nature and the magnificent sights, the art and architecture that I came across on my numerous travels. From then on, like they say, there was no looking back. I founded MADS Creations 19 years back with the full support of my family and clients.

What helped me was knowing my potential, the confidence in my passion for design, the ability to work hard consistently and the determination to outdo my previous work. I realised early on that the only way to win over the clients was through keeping their lifestyle in mind and customising the interiors to the last detail, being transparent with all dealings, and following strict timelines. These strong ethics and value systems have stood us in good stead. We have clients placing their complete faith in us. 

Of course, there are many challenges involved in being a woman running her own company. Not everybody takes kindly to a woman who is successful and strong. But I have learnt to take such hurdles in my stride. What matters is that the number of people who support and appreciate a woman entrepreneur outnumber the ones who don’t. This is hugely encouraging. 

Success and achievement can have different meanings to different people. For me finding my clients and my team happy is a big achievement. Designing luxury homes for discerning clients comprises a set of complex processes, that can be full of stress and tension. But by keeping the client at the centre of it all, working diligently and in an organised manner, I’m able to enjoy every moment of it. And the best reward for me is the happy and contented faces of my clients and their families. For this reason, I take up limited projects at a time so that I can do complete justice to them and enjoy the process as well.

I attribute my achievements to my spirituality as well, as it helps to remain equanimous and think creatively at all times. It enables me to wade through the most difficult phases with a calm resolve. The time I spend meditating, the self-reflection I take up, help me eliminate negative and stressful events from my mind and focus on the task at hand with a positive attitude. So, the daily ritual of prayer in front of the altar is a routine I don’t miss. Physical fitness is as important, so I work out at the gym every morning. That keeps me energetic through the day.

Systematically eliminating even the smallest of mistakes is the only way to achieve flawless outcome with each passing project. The perfect look we are focusing on also comes from custom designing every piece of furniture, wardrobe, vanity, doors and even door handles at our in-house facility. As our organisation has grown, I feel proud that the team constitutes of 70% women. Even my main workshop, which gives shape to my creative designs, is managed by two women. I believe that if women were to live a meaningful life, they should have a say in their life’s decisions and that can happen only when they are empowered economically. So, apart from educating them, it is important to skill them, so that they can easily find employment in various areas. For me this is what success looks like, being able to support people working with me. With so many happy women coming together to work in a beautiful environment, it is women’s day every day at MADS’ Creations!

With a sense of gratitude to all I work with, and all that I have been able to achieve so far, I look forward to more exciting new projects.