"We can be creative and tough both."
That single line captures how Ankita Bhabai, Bar Head at Strangr, New Delhi, sees herself and the role of women in hospitality. Bartending wasn’t the obvious choice, but it felt right, driven by her desire to connect with people and create something meaningful. From her first job to leading teams today, Ankita has steadily built a career grounded in purpose. As she grew behind the bar, she stepped into something bigger. Ankita joined MONIN’s Women Raise the Bar initiative early on, taking part in our first roundtable and later leading a Women’s Day mixology workshop. She made a strong impression by openly sharing her experiences and encouraging others to step forward with confidence.
Curious to know what drives her? Read on to explore Ankita’s journey and her vision for a more inclusive bar world.
1) Getting Started: First Steps Behind the Bar
How did you first step into the world of bartending or hospitality?
After school, while most people planned to pursue a basic graduation followed by an MBA, I always knew I wanted a career where I could interact with people and express my creativity. Bartending checked all those boxes for me.
Was there a moment early in your journey when you thought, "I've found my calling"?
Yes. Four years ago, I won a competition in the East region and was invited to Delhi for the finals. It was one of the happiest moments of my life. I flew on a plane for the first time and stayed in a five-star hotel. That experience made me feel I was on the right path.
2) Challenges and Turning Points
What has been the hardest part of your journey, something that almost made you give up?
At my first job, I was struggling to adjust to a new city and environment. The colleagues weren’t welcoming, my manager was rude, and I was regularly subjected to foul language. I seriously considered leaving the hospitality industry. But I reached out to my mentor from the competition I had won, and he helped me find a new job in a better place. It allowed me to keep learning and continue growing as a bartender.
3) Milestones That Matter
What’s one achievement you’re especially proud of?
My biggest achievement so far has been Strangr. It was the boldest risk I ever took and ultimately the best decision of my career. When I joined, it was a brand-new bar and concept. I was suddenly entrusted with a level of responsibility I had never handled before. That experience pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Strangr became the place where I discovered what I was truly capable of and began to grow into the best version of myself.
How do you define success today? Has that definition changed over time?
Today, success means being able to manage two teams, receiving love from guests, earning the trust of my employer, and traveling to places I always dreamed of. Earlier, I measured success by salary alone, but that definition has evolved with experience.
4) Shifting the Narrative
In your eyes, how has the role of women behind the bar changed in recent years?
The role of women behind the bar has definitely evolved. It used to be seen as an unconventional or unrespected job. But thanks to the rise of quality bars, healthier work environments, and initiatives by brands to uplift bar culture, things are changing for the better.
‘’ To me, inclusion means equal opportunity.’’
What does inclusion in hospitality mean to you, beyond words?
To me, inclusion means equal opportunity. This industry involves physical work and late-night shifts, which can raise safety concerns. But we are just as capable as our male counterparts. Inclusion means giving us the same roles and responsibilities and recognising our strength as well as creativity.
‘’ There’s a belief that hiring men is more convenient than hiring women, due to transporation and safety concerns.’’
What’s one industry mindset or practice that needs to change now?
There’s a belief that hiring men is more convenient than hiring women due to transportation and safety concerns. But if we choose to believe that women are just as capable, then a little extra effort from the industry can go a long way in making the workspace inclusive.
5) On Women Raise the Bar
What does the Women Raise the Bar movement mean to you?
Personally, I think it’s a wonderful initiative by MONIN. It gives women like me a platform to talk about our challenges, things we often suppress because there’s no one to listen. This space makes us feel heard.
How can this movement lead to real opportunities for women?
It starts with small actions within our own circles. Women should look out for one another, make sure those around them feel safe and supported. If someone is struggling at work, this community can help, by connecting them to new opportunities or simply offering to listen.
Quick Picks
• Favourite drink to make: Margarita
• Current ingredient obsession: My in-house fermented hot sauce
• What does "raising the bar" mean to you?
Giving equal opportunity and respect for our work.
Why Raising the Bar Matters
For Ankita, raising the bar means more than career advancement. It’s about equal opportunity, genuine respect, and creating a space where women feel seen and supported. Her story reminds us that change begins when we lead with intention and uplift one another.
Felt inspired? Join the Women Raise the Bar community and be part of a growing movement where every voice matters. Come raise yours
