“Passion isn’t something you pick up; it’s woven into your very being. Growing up in Pune, Maharashtra, in a middle-class family, my fascination with art, colors, and oil painting started early, paving a unique path that eventually became my profession. Mom, despite initial doubts about the arts, was my biggest supporter.

With 12 years in the field of arts and with a Fine Arts degree from Pune, my journey boasts over 800 creations in oil painting and rangoli arts. Last year, during Chhatrapati Shivaji’s 392nd Birth Anniversary in Maharashtra, my team and I broke records with the largest 3D Portrait Rangoli with 34,000 sq feet using 16000 kgs. different types of rangoli colors and set a New World Record on 20th March 2022.

This year marks my second time at Kotideepotsavam, and I’m grateful to the organizers for this chance of presenting my Rangoli art in front of lakhs of devotees. The devotional event during Karthika Masam, lighting up with a crore diyas, has a special spot in my heart. Seeing its rapid growth feels like a divine blessing.

Hyderabad, with Koti Deepotsavam, is a fantastic experience for me and my team. My journey isn’t just about personal experiences; it’s a divine gift and a social responsibility. Sharing my knowledge, teaching, and connecting with others brings me joy. Because, in my book, success and passion transcend age, gender, place, or reasons – it’s all about determination.”

• Bhagyashree, Artist