Rakesh Rana

"I was born in 1979 in Himachal Pradesh but now am settled in Jaipur, Rajasthan. I studied engineering at Manipal University and worked in an IT firm after completing my studies. But somehow, I wasn't satisfied with what I was doing, and felt that something was missing in my life. Since childhood, I've been interested in arts and crafts.

"When I was studying engineering, I made some friends whose families had been carpet makers for generations. So I decided to leave my job and join one of my friends in his Kashmiri art carpet workshop. After some years, I had to stop working with him due to some disputes between us.

"I didn't want to work for anyone else so I decided to do something of my own in the world of arts and crafts. I had some friends and relatives in Jaipur who worked in jewelry. They encouraged me to come and learn the craft from their skilled artisans. So I decided to learn the craft, along with designing, which I was already good at. Initially, I used to spend hours observing the artisans making the jewelry. Then after learning the craft step-by-step, I started crafting by myself.

"With hard work, dedication and practice, I have succeeded in creating beautiful jewelry since 2009. I started by working in a jewelry factory in Jaipur. In 2016, I set up my own workshop with a team of eight assistants. I do the designing as well as crafting. I taught some of my team workers the technique of crafting jewelry. Since most of the designs are intricate and require a lot of attention, it is important that the artisans are masters of their craft and are willing to adopt new ideas.

"My wife, who is also into jewelry designing, works with me along with my brother. We all work together to create beautiful and amazing jewelry.

"We use sterling silver and precious gemstones that we procure from a local supplier. We create both traditional and modern designs. We use traditional methods of crafting silver jewelry like melting, wirework, and beading, and use gemstones with different combinations of styles, from the tribal to the contemporary.

"The most challenging part in this field is to analyze the trends, market and people's tastes. Challenges are opportunities to grow. There are so many things that inspire me, like the beauty of nature and architectural beauty.

"Working with me gives an opportunity of employment for my team workers. They are able to provide a stable life for their families and provide education to their children.

"We have participated in many local fairs in and around Jaipur. I am thankful to you for giving me the opportunity to show my unique designs to the whole world. One day I hope to create a name for myself."