At Brilliant Read Media, it is our constant endeavour to identify and share some of the unique and compelling stories from the startup ecosystem. As part of this, we invited Kamaya Sangodkar for an interview with Brilliant Read Media. To say further, Kamaya is an Entrepreneur and Managing Director at The Pravasi Traveller. Let’s learn more about her background, her inspiring journey so far and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Kamaya:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
I am a graduate of the prestigious London College of Fashion, I began my career in 2008 as a merchandiser for Mango under Major Brands, gaining valuable experience in the luxury retail sector.
With an eye for sophistication and an entrepreneurial spirit, I founded The Beauty Bar in Mumbai, a luxury boutique that introduced Indian consumers to coveted global cosmetic brands like Giorgio Armani and Bobbi Brown, well before Sephora’s entry into the Indian market. For five successful years, The Beauty Bar set new standards in luxury beauty retail.
However, life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with tuberculosis, requiring nine months of rest and recovery. This challenging period became a turning point. While recuperating, I began planning my first-holiday post-recovery.
This meticulously organized trip to Cambodia and Vietnam with friends not only rejuvenated me but also ignited my passion for curating exceptional travel experiences Recognizing my calling, I pivoted my career to the luxury travel sector.
I founded The Pravasi, a bespoke travel outfit based in Mumbai, specializing in crafting immersive and experiential journeys for discerning clients. For over 11 years, The Pravasi has become synonymous with high-end, personalized travel design, blending my innate sense of style with our dedication to creating unforgettable experiences.
‘The Pravasi Traveller’ is such a unique name; talk us through more about it, Our audience would also love to know what kind of problem you are solving?
When it came time to name my travel company, I knew I wanted something unique, meaningful, and deeply rooted in my Indian heritage. The travel industry is filled with names inspired by global aspirations, but I wanted mine to stand out—something that carried the soul of India wherever I went.
In Marathi, as well as in many Indian languages, Pravasi means “traveller” or “migrant.” The word resonated with me instantly, embodying the spirit of exploration, movement, and discovery. It wasn’t just about physical journeys but the stories, cultures, and experiences that travellers carry with them across borders.
No other Indian travel company had an Indian name. This realization made the choice even more compelling. Naming my company The Pravasi wasn’t just about standing out; it was about representing India on a global stage. Every itinerary we craft, every experience we create, is infused with a sense of identity and pride in our roots.
The name symbolizes a bridge—connecting India to the world and the world to India. It’s a reflection of my belief that travel is not just about destinations; it’s about the journey and the stories we collect along the way. The Pravasi has become more than a name; it’s a philosophy that defines who we are and the experiences we create.
In an age where travel is often reduced to pre-packaged itineraries and generic experiences, The Pravasi stands apart by addressing the growing demand for personalized, meaningful journeys. We solve a fundamental issue faced by discerning travellers: the lack of bespoke, immersive travel experiences that go beyond the surface.
Many travellers struggle with the overwhelming task of planning luxurious yet culturally rich trips that cater to their unique tastes and preferences. From navigating logistical complexities to curating authentic local encounters, the process can be daunting and time-consuming. This is where The Pravasi steps in.
Our expertise lies in designing tailor-made experiences that blend luxury with authenticity. Whether it’s a private culinary tour in Italy, an off-the-beaten-path safari in Africa, or a serene wellness retreat in Bali, we ensure every detail is meticulously crafted. We also cater to the need for seamless coordination, ensuring a stress-free journey from start to finish.
Beyond convenience, The Pravasi solves the problem of impersonal travel by creating connections between travellers and destinations, cultures, and people. For over 11 years, we’ve been redefining luxury travel, offering experiences that enrich, inspire, and leave a lasting impact. With The Pravasi, travel becomes more than a trip—it’s a transformative journey.
Despite the challenges, what keeps you going when things get tough?
The travel industry isn’t always picture-perfect itineraries and postcard-worthy moments. It’s long hours, changing regulations, unexpected hurdles, and sometimes, sheer uncertainty. But what keeps me going?
It’s the stories my guests share when they return. The sparkle in their eyes when they talk about the hidden gem they discovered or the connection they felt in a faraway place. It’s knowing that I’ve played a part in creating memories they’ll cherish forever.
It’s also my deep passion for exploring, learning, and sharing. Travel is more than a business for me—it’s a way of life, a source of endless inspiration, and a reminder of how diverse and beautiful our world truly is.
Challenges come and go, but my purpose remains the same: curating meaningful journeys and redefining luxury travel. That’s what fuels my journey, even on the hardest days.
What are the three most important lessons you have learned in your life?
Three Life Lessons That Have Shaped Me –
Staying Calm in Stormy Situations – Life is unpredictable, and challenges are inevitable. I’ve learned that staying calm during turbulent times is not just a strength—it’s a necessity. It allows me to think clearly, act wisely, and weather any storm with resilience.
Focusing on What Matters – People will test your patience, push your limits, and try to distract you. However, I’ve discovered that compartmentalizing problems, prioritizing what truly matters, and solving issues one by one is the key to staying grounded. It’s about preserving energy for what’s important and letting go of what isn’t.
Work That Aligns with Values – One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to choose work that resonates with my thoughts, values, and vision for growth. When your work aligns with your passion and purpose, it becomes more than just a job—it becomes a journey of fulfilment.
These lessons haven’t just guided me; they’ve shaped who I am today.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
Keys to Success: A Personal Perspective
a) ChallengeYour Fears – Your brain often clings to fear and doubt, urging you to stay in your comfort zone. Success begins when you challenge those thoughts and take the plunge into the unknown. Growth lies in doing what scares you.
b) Consistency is Key – Big achievements don’t happen overnight. Consistent effort, no matter how small, creates the momentum needed to reach your goals. It’s the steady progress that makes all the difference.
c) Dedication – True success requires unwavering commitment. Dedication fuels persistence, pushes you through obstacles, and ensures that your vision becomes a reality.
d) UpskillContinuously- In a rapidly changing world, the ability to adapt and grow is non-negotiable. Constantly upgrading your skills keeps you relevant, confident, and ahead of the curve.
Success is a journey, not a destination, and these keys unlock the path forward
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
My Advice to Students and Young Professionals Entering the Travel Industry Breaking into the travel industry is exciting, but it requires more than just a love for exploring the world.
Here are my top five pieces of advice:
Discipline – The travel industry is fast-paced and demanding. Staying disciplined, organized, and focused will help you navigate the challenges and consistently deliver exceptional results.
Dedication to Your Role – Every role in this field plays a critical part in creating an unforgettable experience. Dedicate yourself fully to your responsibilities, no matter how small they may seem.
Passion – This industry thrives on passion. Your genuine love for travel and helping others explore the world will be your biggest motivator and set you apart.
Flexibility in Working Hours – Travel doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Be prepared for irregular hours, urgent requests, and last-minute changes. Flexibility is key to thriving in this dynamic field.
Desire for Skill & Knowledge Development – The industry evolves rapidly. To stay ahead, invest in learning—whether it’s destination knowledge, tech tools, or customer service skills. The more you know, the better you’ll serve your clients.
Remember, a career in travel is as rewarding as it is challenging. Embrace the journey with an open mind and a strong work ethic!
Last but not least, what about your journey makes it satisfying/exciting?
What Makes My Journey at The Pravasi So Satisfying and Exciting Running The Pravasi has been more than just a professional endeavour—it’s been a deeply fulfilling journey of growth, creativity, and connection.
Here’s what makes it truly special:
Crafting Unique Experiences – Every client’s dream trip is a new story waiting to unfold. The joy of transforming their wishes into seamless, unforgettable journeys is indescribable. It’s not just about travel—it’s about creating moments they’ll treasure forever.
Constant Exploration – Travel is ever-evolving, and so is The Pravasi. Staying on top of trends, discovering hidden gems, and bringing fresh ideas to the table keeps my work endlessly exciting. It’s a career that never stands still.
Building Relationships – Connecting with clients, partners, and local experts worldwide has enriched my life in countless ways. It’s not just about business—it’s about meaningful relationships that make every project deeply rewarding.
The Thrill of Challenges – From last minute changes to crafting highly personalized itineraries, each challenge pushes me to grow, innovate, and stay at the top of my game. It’s the thrill of overcoming hurdles that keeps me energized.
SeeingDreams Come True – The ultimate satisfaction lies in hearing about my clients’ incredible experiences. Knowing that I’ve played a part in creating their happiest memories is what makes this journey truly worth it.
At The Pravasi, every day is a new adventure, and that’s what makes it all so incredibly rewarding.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
