1. Nishka, what motivated you to redefine luxury living with Crest Oaks, and what challenges did you face?
Redefining luxury living with Crest Oaks was an exciting opportunity for me to push the boundaries of what a residential project can offer. I was motivated by the idea of creating not just a place to live, but a community that embodies modern luxury and provides a unique lifestyle experience for our residents. Marol, with its vibrant energy, excellent connectivity, and thriving social and commercial hubs, was the perfect location to bring this vision to life.
As this project marks our debut in this market, one of the challenges we faced was ensuring that Crest Oaks would stand out as a luxury development in a competitive market. This involved extensive research and a deep understanding of our target audience’s needs and desires. We focused on integrating cutting-edge amenities, innovative technology, and sustainable practices that align with contemporary lifestyle trends. Additionally, plotting our marketing strategies and activations to be in-sync with regulatory approvals and construction timelines required meticulous planning and coordination.
Despite these challenges, the overwhelming positive response from homebuyers has been incredibly rewarding and reaffirms our commitment to setting new standards in luxury living.
2. Can you share a few key strategies or ideas that helped make Crest Oaks and other projects successful?
We leveraged digital marketing extensively, utilizing social media platforms to reach specific audiences and increase our overall conversions. Innovative technology is also attributed to the increased visibility. Through virtual tours and augmented reality, potential buyers could have a seamless experience by exploring the project from the comfort of their own homes. We also partnered with local influencers and hosted exclusive events to create a more personalized experience and foster a sense of community.
Overall, the success of Crest Oaks stems from detailed research and dynamic planning and execution.
3. What inspired you to start Empowering Villages Everywhere (EVE), and what have been some of your most impactful projects?
I’ve always wanted to contribute towards helping under-resourced communities and making a difference in society, and this opportunity came to fruition with Empowering Villages Everywhere (EVE)
From my visits across rural India, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by communities with limited access to basic opportunities. This inspired me to start EVE in 2010. Since then, we have implemented numerous impactful projects to improve the lives of villagers by uplifting their overall lifestyle.
One of our most successful projects has been the distribution of over 500,000 solar lamps, designed to help illuminate homes and schools after dark, allowing residents to perform basic tasks. This greatly improved the educational, economic and recreational conditions, as children could study after hours, farmers and artisans could continue their work, and it also increased the safety and security of the villages
One particular moment that stands out is when a young girl approached me during one of our visits. She shared how the solar lamp had allowed her to study for longer hours and inspired her to dream of becoming a teacher. Her determination and optimism were incredibly moving and serve as a reminder of the positive impact we can achieve when we address the fundamental needs of underserved populations.
Our additional initiatives included distributing educational supplies, and conducting health camps where we provided vital medical services and helped raise awareness about health and hygiene
Another project close to my heart is our work with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS). By facilitating the distribution of above and below the knee prosthetic limbs in remote locations, as well as aiding people suffering from polio, we’ve been able to transform the lives of thousands of individuals, giving them the mobility, freedom, and confidence to lead more fulfilling lives.
4. What advice do you have for women entrepreneurs looking to succeed in today’s business world?
My advice for women entrepreneurs is to embrace your unique perspective and strengths. In a world that often underestimates women, it’s crucial to be confident in your abilities and vision. Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue opportunities that align with your passion and values.
Building a strong network of mentors and peers is invaluable. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance when needed. Stay curious and keep learning, as the business landscape is constantly evolving.
Finally, prioritize resilience and perseverance. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they are also opportunities for growth and innovation. Believe in yourself and your mission, and let that drive you forward.
5. Why did you get involved with Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), and how does this work fit into your larger goals?
My involvement with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) was inspired by my deep commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who are often overlooked.
BMVSS is renowned for its remarkable work in providing prosthetic limbs to above and below the knee amputees as well as aiding people suffering from polio, and its mission resonates with my values of empowerment and inclusivity.
I was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to an organization that directly impacts the mobility and quality of life for thousands of individuals, enabling them to regain their independence and pursue their aspirations.
This work aligns seamlessly with my larger goals of fostering social equity and creating opportunities for marginalized communities. I believe that everyone deserves the chance to lead a dignified life, regardless of their physical or socio-economic challenges. By working with BMVSS, I aim to bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare access and ensure that those in remote areas receive the support they need. This involvement is not just about providing physical assistance but also about instilling hope and inspiring resilience in the face of adversity.
6. Can you share a success story or impact from your CSR work that stands out to you?**
In 2017, EVE went beyond distributing solar lamps by providing additional essential materials to meet daily needs of children in a residential school called Prashnachinha, located in Mangrul Chawala, near Amaravati.
This school housed children belonging to the ‘False Pardhi’ tribe (Hunter tribe) who were historically stigmatized as criminals and outcasts by the British. This prejudice still exists today and has led to lack of access to basic social services, including education and healthcare.
Prashnachinha houses 450 disadvantaged children, rescued from streets, railway stations, and various parts of Maharashtra. EVE’s support included supplying library books, sports equipment, in addition to 100 solar lamps, empowering the children to play and study after dark.
EVE also celebrated the festival of lights in two villages near Jawhar in Palghar district by supplying oil, earthen lamps, rangoli, and colors to immerse the villages in the festive spirit. Women received a new saree, men were gifted towels, and students received notebooks, pencil boxes with sharpeners, and erasers. Snacks like chivda, laddu, chakli and bhujiya were provided and brought immense joy to the villagers experiencing these treats for the first time.
7. What are your plans for the future in both real estate and your philanthropic work?
In the realm of real estate, my plans revolve around pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability. I envision developing projects that not only offer exceptional living experiences but also prioritize environmental responsibility and community well-being. We are exploring the integration of smart technology and eco-friendly practices in our upcoming projects in Bandra and Dadar, aiming to set new benchmarks for urban living. My goal is to create spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also contribute positively to the urban skyline, landscape, and the environment.
On the philanthropic front, I am committed to expanding the reach and impact of Empowering Villages Everywhere (EVE). We plan to launch new initiatives focused on education and skill development for rural youth, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, I am keen on exploring partnerships with other organizations to amplify our efforts and reach more communities in need.
One of my long-term objectives is to establish a platform that brings together social entrepreneurs and change-makers to collaborate on innovative solutions for pressing societal challenges. By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, I believe we can create scalable and sustainable models that address complex issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare access. Ultimately, my plans for the future are guided by a vision of creating meaningful and lasting change in both the real estate industry and the communities we serve.
8. Are there any new projects or goals you’re excited about, and how do you hope they will make a difference?
Yes, I am incredibly excited about a new initiative we are launching called “Project Radiance.” This project aims to transform underutilized urban spaces into vibrant community hubs that foster social interaction and cultural exchange. We plan to collaborate with local artists, designers, and community leaders to create spaces that celebrate diversity and encourage creative expression.
One of the key components of Project Radiance is the development of community gardens and public art installations that reflect the unique identity and heritage of each neighborhood. By revitalizing these spaces, we hope to promote a sense of pride and ownership among residents and create environments that inspire collaboration and connection.
I am equally thrilled about our upcoming “EVE Scholars Program,” which will provide scholarships and mentorship opportunities for talented students from rural areas who aspire to pursue higher education. This program aims to bridge the educational gap and empower the next generation of leaders from underserved communities. By investing in their potential, we hope to create a ripple effect that inspires positive change within their communities.
These projects are aligned with my broader vision of creating inclusive and sustainable environments that enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities. I believe that by reimagining urban spaces and investing in education, we can drive social progress and create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
