Empowered & Innovative: Women Transforming Careers Through Culinary Ventures

Indore (Madhya Pradesh) is experiencing a vibrant shift as educated women are increasingly departing from traditional career paths to embrace the city’s dynamic food scene. Many of these women, hailing from backgrounds in engineering and management, have discovered their true passion in the culinary arts.

Celebrating Trailblazers: Inspiring Women in Indore’s Food Industry

This International Women’s Day, we spotlight eight remarkable women who are not only serving delectable dishes from their gourmet bakeries and innovative street food stalls but are also revolutionizing the culinary landscape of Indore. Infusing their creativity and entrepreneurial drive, they are nourishing both appetites and dreams while paving the way for a new generation of female entrepreneurship in the city.

Preeti Kulkarni

Aai Ke Appe: Fulfilling a Family Dream

I studied at Satyasai University, Bhopal. My food stall, Aai Ke Appe, is a realization of my mother-in-law’s aspiration to have a food truck reminiscent of those in the US. With determination, we began with a small cart at Meghdoot Chaupati, offering our cherished dishes for three successful years before relocating to LIG Square. Every dish we serve carries the warmth of home-cooked food. It’s a family affair, with my husband helping out on weekends. Witnessing customers enjoy our food is the highlight of this journey, fueling our ambition to grow—one Appe at a time!

Ruhi Sisodiya

Kunafas in Indore: From Cart to Store in Just Two Years

I am Ruhi Sisodiya, co-founder of Rarish Kunafas. Two years ago, the Middle Eastern dessert, Kunafa, was quite new to Indore. I practiced diligently to perfect my recipe, starting with a small cart at Meghdoot Chaupati. As locals embraced the taste, my passion grew, leading to the establishment of my own store at Chhappan. The satisfaction of customers enjoying my Kunafas brings me joy, motivating me to continue creating delightful treats.

Uma Sonar

Transitioning from Corporate Life to Serving Authentic Nepali Cuisine

I’m Uma Sonar, a 23-year-old who relocated to Indore from Arunachal Pradesh three years ago seeking fulfillment. After exploring various professional roles, I realized my true calling lay in food. Given my Nepalese roots, I noticed a gap in authentic Nepali cuisine in Indore, often over-spiced. I founded Nepali Taste a month ago near Marriott Hotel, offering genuine Nepali dishes like my Thukpa. This venture represents my heart and passion, creating an inviting space for diners.

Pinky Sisodiya

Transforming from Banking to Sweets: The Rise of a Chocolate Entrepreneur

I’m Pinky Sisodiya, who transitioned from a stable banking job to pursuing my dessert passion. After initially opening a restaurant that succumbed to the pandemic, I launched a chocolate venture starting with a cart at Meghdoot Chaupati. Today, I run Craving The Chocolate Queen in Scheme 78, offering pancakes, waffles, brownies, and my much-loved chocolate fountain. Each challenge strengthens my resolve to introduce more unique flavors through my brand.

Riya Vishvakarma

Shifting from Corporate Life to Crafting Cakes

I am Riya Vishvakarma, a 25-year-old MBA graduate who initially entered the corporate world. However, I yearned to pursue my true passion: baking. Taking a bold step, I began producing chocolates, cakes, and more from home. Although the journey faced hurdles and self-doubt, the support from my customers at Riya the Baker near LIG has been overwhelming. Their appreciation motivates me to innovate and expand further.

Arpita Jain

Dreams on Wheels: Jainum Delicious Food Point

I’m Arpita Jain, and I began my journey in the food industry in 2021, inspired by my husband’s vision of a food cart. This dream led to Jainum Delicious Food Point, which specializes in authentic Jain cuisine. Our humble beginnings have gained us a loyal customer base, and our ambition is to expand our reach and impact in the Indore food landscape.

Vinamrata Kachhava

Launching ‘Chakh Le Vadapav’ with Purpose and Passion

I am Vinamrata Kachhava, a 29-year-old entrepreneur with a Computer Science background and an MBA in HR. After initially preparing for civil services, I found fulfillment in opening Chakh Le Vadapav. Our brand focuses on authentic flavors and hygiene, and we serve over 700 vada pavs daily. This venture embodies the principles of passion, resilience, and family support.

A Celebration of Resilience and Innovation

From baking to authentic regional delights, these women are crafting unforgettable culinary experiences while reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape in Indore. Their journeys are filled with challenges—financial hardships, lack of support, and setbacks. Yet, they remain tenacious.

They are not merely food entrepreneurs; they are driving social change. Their inspiring tales remind us of the limitless possibilities available to women, emphasizing that no dream is too grand, no obstacle too daunting, and no aspiration too ambitious!