Biography of Vandita Purohit: Founder of TraWork, Kalapentry & Mauji Time Café- Entrepreneur
Biography of Vandita Purohit:
Early Education and Career Beginnings
Vandita Purohit’s academic foundation was laid at Nagpur
University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and
Telecommunication Engineering. This technical background provided her with a
unique perspective on problem-solving and innovation, essential tools for her
future entrepreneurial ventures. After completing her education in 2008, she
set out to explore her passions, ultimately leading her into the dynamic world
of entrepreneurship.
The Birth of TraWork
In 2018, driven by her love for travel and work, Vandita
founded TraWork, a startup aimed at helping individuals blend their
professional and travel experiences. TraWork catered to those who sought the
thrill of exploring new destinations while maintaining their work commitments.
Vandita envisioned a platform that would enable members to work remotely from
stunning locations around the world, thus redefining the notion of a "work
vacation." Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic put this venture on hold,
but her determination to revive it remains strong.
The DAFTAR Co-Working Space
Prior to TraWork, Vandita co-founded The DAFTAR, a
co-working space designed for startups, freelancers, and independent
professionals. This space aimed to foster collaboration and creativity among
its members, providing them with a comfortable environment to thrive. It was
here that Vandita learned the importance of community, a theme that would
resonate throughout her later ventures. The DAFTAR not only offered a workspace
but also organized workshops and events, enhancing the collaborative spirit
among its members.
Launching Mauji Time Café
In October 2020, amidst the challenges posed by the
pandemic, Vandita opened Mauji Time Café, believed to be India’s first time
café. Inspired by the concept of anti-cafés, Mauji allowed guests to enjoy
unlimited beverages while paying for the time spent in the café rather than for
the food ordered. This innovative approach created a unique space where people
could work, socialize, or simply relax without the pressure of making a
purchase. The café quickly became a community hub, offering a welcoming
atmosphere for all.
Creating a Unique Café Experience
Mauji Time Café is not just about coffee; it’s about the
experience of being in a creatively designed space that encourages relaxation
and productivity. Vandita envisioned a café that would feel like a 'third
space'—a place between home and work. The café's design reflects this vision,
blending comfort and creativity to create an inviting environment that
resonates with the community. Guests are encouraged to bring their work or a
book, allowing them to make the most of their time spent there.
The Concept of Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of Vandita’s ventures. At
Mauji, she integrated eco-friendly practices into the café's design, from the
furniture to the décor. Collaborating with local artisans, she sourced
materials that were either reclaimed or upcycled, ensuring that every piece in
the café told a story. This commitment to sustainability not only beautifies
the space but also resonates with an increasingly environmentally conscious
clientele.
Introducing Kalapentry
In 2021, building on her passion for design and
sustainability, Vandita launched Kalapentry. This venture focuses on
refurbishing old furniture and creating sustainable home decor. The name
Kalapentry combines ‘Kala’ (creativity) and ‘pentry’ (from carpentry), embodying
Vandita’s mission to transform discarded items into beautiful, functional
pieces. Kalapentry stands out for its innovative approach to design, blending
art and functionality while promoting recycling and creativity.
Community Engagement through Garage Sales
Kalapentry also emphasizes community involvement through its
Garage Sales, where the refurbished pieces are sold. These events not only
provide an opportunity for customers to purchase unique items but also raise
awareness about recycling and sustainable living. Vandita believes in creating
a culture of reuse, where the community can engage with and learn about the
benefits of giving new life to old furniture.
Creating Collaborative Spaces
Beyond furniture design, Vandita’s work at Kalapentry includes
providing end-to-end design solutions for collaborative, community-driven
spaces. She works with various clients, including cafes and coworking spaces,
to create environments that encourage creativity and collaboration. Vandita's
philosophy is that every space should reflect its occupants' ideas and
aspirations, translating their visions into tangible designs.
Biography of Vandita Purohit:Founder of TraWork,Kalapentry &Mauji Time Café/refurbishing old furniture/age/net worth/investor/startup/Vandita Purohit
Overcoming Challenges
The journey has not been without its challenges. The
pandemic significantly impacted Mauji Time Café and Kalapentry, but Vandita’s
resilience shone through. She navigated the difficulties with creativity and
innovation, finding ways to adapt her businesses to the changing landscape. Her
ability to pivot and embrace new opportunities has been crucial in sustaining
her ventures through tough times.
A Vision for the Future
Vandita’s aspirations extend beyond her current ventures.
She aims to expand Mauji Time Café, enhancing its community engagement and
exploring new ways to serve her customers. Additionally, she envisions growing
Kalapentry into a larger enterprise that not only sells refurbished furniture
but also educates the community on sustainable design practices.
The Role of Community
Community building is a central theme in Vandita's work.
Whether through The DAFTAR, Mauji Time Café, or Kalapentry, her focus has
always been on creating spaces where people can come together, share ideas, and
collaborate. Vandita understands the power of community and how it can lead to
innovation and growth, making it a cornerstone of her entrepreneurial journey.
Embracing Creativity
Vandita’s entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by her
creativity. She finds joy in turning the ordinary into the extraordinary,
whether it’s through designing unique furniture or curating experiences at her
café. This creative zeal drives her to explore new ideas and challenge
conventions, making her a true innovator in her field.
The Impact of Mauji
Mauji Time Café has made a significant impact on the local
community by redefining the café experience. It has become a popular spot for
social gatherings, work meetings, and events, fostering a sense of belonging
among its patrons. Vandita’s vision has transformed it into a space where
everyone feels welcome and valued, a true reflection of her commitment to
community.
Continuing the Journey
As Vandita continues her entrepreneurial journey, she
remains focused on her core values of creativity, sustainability, and
community. Her ventures are not just businesses; they are expressions of her
beliefs and a testament to her passion for making a difference in people's
lives. With plans for expansion and new projects on the horizon, her story is
far from over.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Through her innovative approaches and unwavering dedication,
Vandita Purohit inspires others to pursue their passions and embrace
creativity. Her journey is a reminder that entrepreneurship can be a powerful
tool for positive change, capable of transforming not just businesses, but
entire communities. As she forges ahead, Vandita’s legacy will continue to
resonate, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.
A timeline for Vandita Purohit’s entrepreneurial journey:
2008 - Completes Bachelor's in Electronics and
Telecommunication Engineering from Nagpur University.
2017 - Co-founds The DAFTAR, a co-working space for startups
and freelancers.
2018 - Founds TraWork, a startup aimed at blending work and
travel.
October 2020 - Opens Mauji Time Café, India's first time
café during the pandemic.
2021 - Launches Kalapentry, focusing on refurbishing old
furniture and sustainable design.
2021 - Hosts Garage Sales through Kalapentry to promote
recycling and community engagement.
2022 - Expands the community focus of Mauji Time Café,
enhancing its role as a social hub.
2024 - Aims to grow Kalapentry and Mauji Time Café while
promoting sustainability and community collaboration.
