Your Journey Begins
How did your journey into bartending begin?
My journey began when I was in Class 11. I used to visit bars and clubs with friends and I became fascinated by everything happening behind the bar. Watching bartenders prepare cocktails, interact with guests and create an atmosphere made me realise that bartending was much more than making drinks. It was about creating experiences.
One thing I noticed very quickly was that almost every bartender I saw was a man. Instead of putting me off, it made me curious. I wanted to step into a profession that wasn't considered the usual path for women and prove that we belonged there too.
Challenges & Turning Points
Was there a moment when you questioned your decision?
Yes. More than once.
Starting out wasn't easy. During interviews, I often felt that people saw my gender before they saw my passion or willingness to learn. There were moments when I wondered whether I should choose a different career altogether.
Looking back, those experiences made me stronger. Becoming a faculty member at The Barartists reminded me why I loved this profession in the first place. Later, joining Vivanta Kolkata gave me the opportunity to work alongside people who believed in my abilities. Their support helped rebuild my confidence and taught me that perseverance and continuous learning always pay off.
Milestones That Matter
What achievement are you most proud of?
Every milestone has taught me something different, but a few remain especially meaningful.
Completing my WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits strengthened my understanding of the beverage industry and gave me a stronger technical foundation. Becoming certified by the World Flair Association was another proud moment, particularly because only a small number of bartenders in Kolkata hold that certification.
Reaching the National Finals of the NEFT Vodka Competition is another achievement I will always value. Although family circumstances meant I couldn't compete in the final round, qualifying for the finals gave me confidence that I was moving in the right direction.
How has your definition of success changed?
Earlier, success meant winning competitions and collecting achievements.
Today, success means continuing to learn, helping others grow and knowing that every experience, whether good or difficult, has made me a better bartender.
Shifting the Narrative
How do you think the role of women behind the bar has evolved?
The change over the past few years has been significant.
When I first became interested in bartending, seeing a woman behind the bar was uncommon. Today, more women are competing, leading bar programmes, teaching and building successful careers in hospitality.
There is still progress to be made, particularly in leadership roles, but I believe the industry is becoming more open and more welcoming than ever before.
What is one mindset you would like to see disappear?
The idea that women constantly need to prove they belong.
Bartending is built on knowledge, creativity, discipline and hospitality. None of those qualities are defined by gender. I hope we continue moving towards an industry where people are recognised for their skills, their attitude and their professionalism.
Women Raise the Bar
What does this movement mean to you?
To me, Women Raise the Bar is about creating opportunities.
When I entered this profession, there were very few women to look up to. Today, I hope my own journey encourages someone else to take that first step with confidence.
Real change doesn't happen through conversations alone. It happens when we support one another, share knowledge and create more opportunities for women to grow within hospitality.
Quick Hits
Your favourite cocktail to make?
A Negroni or a Sweet Martini.
I love classic cocktails because they allow you to showcase balance and precision while adapting every drink to the guest sitting in front of you.
What trend are you currently excited about?
I'm enjoying exploring savoury cocktails with subtle spicy and salty notes, alongside clarification techniques and seasonal ingredients. The best drinks don't need to be complicated. They simply need to be thoughtful, balanced and memorable.
In one sentence, what does "raising the bar" mean to you?
"Raising the bar means inspiring others through passion, continuous learning and proving that talent, not gender, defines a great bartender."
