Sharmishtha holds a graduation degree in Commerce and a Master’s in Computer Management, combining analytical insight with managerial expertise. With over 25 years of experience across ITES, finance, human resources, and the food industry, Sharmishtha has worked with both domestic and multinational companies - contributing to project design, training, recruitment, execution, and quality assurance.

In 2010, Sharmishtha co-founded Khawakee Foods, an early pioneer in delivering Maharashtrian meals and festival delicacies across Pune. Long before online food delivery platforms became mainstream, Sharmishtha helped conceptualize and implement a direct ordering and delivery model based on trust, authenticity, and taste. At Khawakee, Sharmishtha continues to lead strategic planning, marketing, financial forecasting, and customer engagement, while constantly refining processes in food preparation, storage, and distribution.

Sharmishtha is actively involved in the development and production of traditional Maharashtrian recipes, overseeing team training, quality control, order management, and efficient operations. She has also conducted training sessions for women focused on manufacturing traditional food items, helping them launch home-based food businesses and manage resources effectively.

In addition to her entrepreneurial work, Sharmishtha is a passionate artist with expertise in watercolour, Madhubani painting, terracotta jewellery, and wall painting in acrylic and oil mediums. She is also the founder of ALG-O-Rhythm, a creative network of artists and art enthusiasts.

Sharmishtha's journey reflects a powerful blend of entrepreneurship, artistry, and community development - anchored in tradition and driven by innovation.

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Mandar is a multifaceted professional with around 25 years of experience across manufacturing, ITES, food, and social development sectors.

Mandar began his professional journey as a Mechanical Engineer, working in the automobile manufacturing industry, eventually moving on to the ITES industry in a project execution and management role. He ventured into entrepreneurship in the digitalization and automation sector, along with a broader role of mentor and consultant to various startups in finance, food, and education sectors.

In 2010, he co-founded Khawakee Foods, an early pioneer in delivering fresh Maharashtrian meals and festival food items across Pune. Long before food delivery platforms became mainstream, Khawakee developed and implemented a direct ordering and delivery model rooted in trust, authenticity, and taste. Mandar continues to lead the company’s strategic planning, marketing, financial oversight, and customer engagement while constantly experimenting with processes in preparation, storage, and distribution.

Mandar is also active with several networks advocating for child rights, right to education, eradication of child labour and child marriage, etc. He writes articles, delivers lectures, and conducts training sessions of social workers, activists, teachers, and volunteers around these topics. He has travelled across Maharashtra and other states for the purpose of networking with civil society organizations and institutions towards ensuring protection and development of children from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

Alongside his professional work, Mandar is a prolific writer and a passionate storyteller with considerable experience in theatre and arts. Stories and articles written by him are published in leading newspapers and magazines in Marathi and English.

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Shantanu is a creative and detail-oriented professional with a diverse background in language services, social media management, and design. With over six years of freelance experience, he has developed strong skills in linguistic precision, visual communication, and content creation.

Shantanu has been working as a freelance translator and content creator, helping clients bridge language gaps with clarity and cultural sensitivity. His work spans various formats and subject areas, ensuring accuracy and nuance in every project. As a freelance Graphic Designer and Social Media Manager, he managed campaigns, curated digital content, and helped brands build meaningful connections with their audiences.

In addition, Shantanu has worked in technical roles such as transcription and project-based research, including a stint with a scientific institute where he contributed to an air quality and weather forecasting project.

Shantanu’s multidisciplinary experience makes him adaptable, thoughtful, and resourceful - able to work across creative and technical domains with equal ease. Whether crafting content, managing communication, or designing visuals, he brings to the business a strong flow of energy and a passion for impactful storytelling.

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