We at SC think women deserve to be celebrated on a much regular basis, but since today couldn’t be more appropriate a day than any other, we’ve shifted our focus to our friendly neighbors – case in point, the women who are making Pune a hot destination!
1. Harshita Chatterjee Deshpande
While she may have caught Pune’s attention by being one of the first to have opened a concept boutique store (Mairah), Harshita is also simultaneously invested in her eponymous label that boasts of bringing rich textiles to its customers. Harshita personally sources these fabrics from traditional weavers from across India. Her past years were spent being involved in film direction, script writing and has even been a television journalist.
2. Minoti Makim

After having spent her much of her childhood years in Mumbai, Minoti Makim, an event consultant and founder of Carpe Diem, a public relations and communications firm, has lead her team towards glory by having some of the biggest names in the hospitality and retail industry consult her firm for brand building and social presence. With a company name so aptly titled, we’re sure she’s headed for much success in all her future ventures.
3. Nivedita Saboo
Not only has Nivedita Saboo taken Pune’s fashion world by storm, she has also had her couture creations showcased at Paris Fashion Week, London Bridal Week and Hong Kong as well – talk about being a global citizen! Having styled a plethora of celebrities back in the day, Nivedita has a better understanding of luxury couture – streamlined silhouettes that flatter and embellishments that don’t overpower; we’re specially crushing on her bridal collections.
4. Karishma Shahani Khan
Pune’s very own homegrown designer, Karishma Shahani Khan believes in a cultural amalgamation of craft and textiles – we can see this translate in her label [Ka] [Sha] which boasts of her bohemian sensibilities. Her take on minimalistic prints and layering is refreshing and modern. Karishma aims to continue to pursue her love for sustainable fashion in the future – can you say handcrafted with love?!
5. Nidhi Bhandari
A self-proclaimed Carrie Bradshaw, shoe couturier (don’t you just love that term?!) Nidhi Bhandari started her namesake label in Pune in an attempt to bring forth a never before seen line of exclusive fashion footwear. From embellished wedges, to ornate moccasins, and many more such fancy styles, Nidhi Bhandari is making shockwaves in our shoe closets. Design first and comfort later, we’re all a little guilty of this when it comes to our footwear.
6. Karen Anand
Gourmet goddess and food extraordinaire, Karen Anand has a lot more than a feather in her cap when it comes to her gastronomical journey – fifteen books, three cooking shows, being a food critic and hosting farmer’s markets later, it doesn’t look like she’s stopping anytime soon. We’re proud to have our very own Indian Martha Stewart influence the way we eat.
7. Sonam Parmar
Young, trendy and fun, words don’t do enough justice to Sonam Parmar’s designs. Her studio has a pop-art vibe, which marries well into the clothing on display. Your one stop shop for all things partywear, Sonam Parmar’s collections make us want to hop on the next bus to Pune and buy everything!
8. Uzma Poonawalla
Stylist and designer, Uzma Poonawalla certainly packs a punch with her carefully curated Cherry Crush fashion bazaars that host an array of designers, brands and other shopping delights. Her high-end flea markets have been inviting the crème de la crème of Pune to shop till they drop in glee!
SC wishes all of them Happy Women’s day, may you’ll ever be empowered!