Kalam is more than just a brand – it’s a story of passion, creativity, and purpose, deeply rooted in the journey of its founder, Sheetal K. Majithia. What started as simple doodles – peacocks, lotuses, mangoes, and intricate patterns – during her school days in Kabul, Afghanistan, transformed into a unique brand that blends art with social responsibility. These small, seemingly insignificant sketches on scraps of paper soon became the foundation of Sheetal’s artistic identity and a catalyst for her entrepreneurial journey.
While studying psychology at Macalester College in Minnesota, Sheetal never imagined that her love for art would evolve into something much bigger. Yet, the doodles that started in the classroom became the cornerstone of her future business, Kalam. Each stroke of the pen that Sheetal created symbolized more than just an artistic flair; it was an expression of her creativity, personal growth, and connection to the world. Encouraged by her family, especially her father-in-law, who noticed her talent and asked her to illustrate twelve Lord Ganeshji artworks for a family business calendar, she found her purpose and direction in life.
What began as a personal hobby blossomed into Kalam – a brand defined by intricate hand-drawn paisley artwork and a commitment to giving back. From flower pots to crockery to silk scarves, each product from Kalam carries with it the essence of timeless craftsmanship, making everyday items a canvas for Sheetal’s artistry. But Kalam is not just about art – it’s about creating positive change. With every product, Kalam supports causes close to Sheetal’s heart, including education for girls, women’s empowerment, and the protection of animals.
The Services and Products Offered
Kalam’s signature product line revolves around its distinct black-and-white paisley designs. These designs, hand-drawn with meticulous attention to detail, are showcased across various lifestyle products. From beautiful home décor like flower pots to elegant crockery and silk scarves, every piece emanates Sheetal’s unique touch. These items aren’t just objects – they are reflections of intricate artistry that transform ordinary items into extraordinary expressions of creativity.
But Kalam’s products go beyond just visual appeal. The brand celebrates craftsmanship, making each item a piece of art that also carries an underlying purpose – social impact. With every product, Sheetal envisions not just creating art but creating a ripple effect of change, one piece at a time.
Education and Early Influences
Sheetal’s educational journey was anything but ordinary. She completed her BA in Psychology from Macalester College in Minnesota, but her learning experiences extended far beyond the classroom. Growing up in Kabul, Afghanistan, attending a boarding school in Jaipur, high school in Singapore, and later studying in the United States, Sheetal’s diverse educational background exposed her to a rich mix of cultures, ideas, and perspectives.
Studying psychology intrigued her as it offered insights into human behavior and social dynamics, helping her connect more deeply with the people and experiences around her. Sheetal reflects that this unique combination of international exposure and appreciation for her roots in India shaped her worldview and laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit.
The Spark that Ignited Kalam
The first spark of entrepreneurship came unexpectedly. Sheetal’s father-in-law was the first person to recognize her artistic potential, and he encouraged her to create a series of Lord Ganeshji illustrations for his company’s annual calendar. This project became the catalyst for Kalam, where her passion for art was no longer confined to personal expression. With family support and the drive to make her mark, Sheetal began to conceptualize Kalam as a brand.
As her children left for college, Sheetal found herself with more time to explore her creativity. Her daughter, who shared in the excitement of the venture, designed the Kalam logo and continues to contribute to its digital presence. Together, the family was key to transforming Kalam into a brand that would not only resonate with art lovers but also aim for a greater cause.
A Brand with a Mission
Kalam is based in Ahmedabad, India, and while the brand has strong roots in Western India, Sheetal’s vision for the future includes a global reach. With the upcoming launch of their website, Kalam plans to expand internationally, reaching customers across the globe who appreciate fine craftsmanship and artistic designs.
At the core of Kalam’s identity is its commitment to social good. All profits from the brand are donated to causes close to Sheetal’s heart, including promoting girl child education, empowering women, supporting animal protection initiatives, and providing nutrition to those in need. Kalam is not just a business venture but a movement to use creativity as a force for positive change.
Biggest Motivator in Life
My biggest motivator is undoubtedly my husband. His unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in my journey. He has an incredible way of keeping me inspired—whether it’s spotting a new product while traveling or coming across an innovative idea, he always takes a picture and says, “We should make this for Kalam.” His enthusiasm constantly fuels my creativity and pushes me to explore new possibilities.
Beyond external motivation, patience has been a key quality that keeps me going. I’ve learned to trust the process, knowing that true growth takes time. The joy of creating something meaningful and witnessing its impact on others is what truly drives me forward. Every design, every product, and every initiative through Kalam is a step toward making a difference, and that sense of purpose keeps me inspired every day.
Competitive Strengths and Clients
Kalam’s unique selling point lies in its intricate hand-drawn designs that set it apart from other brands. Sheetal’s black-and-white paisley artwork is distinctive, timeless, and instantly recognizable. This style not only gives Kalam products a signature appeal but also speaks to people who value craftsmanship, originality, and meaning.
Kalam’s clients are individuals who appreciate fine art and high-quality design. From home décor enthusiasts to fashion lovers, Kalam appeals to a diverse range of customers who share a love for creativity. Whether they are purchasing a hand-painted flower pot, an intricately designed silk scarf, or a decorative piece of crockery, Kalam’s clients are people who seek to enrich their daily lives with pieces that have a story to tell.
Overcoming Challenges
Running Kalam has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for Sheetal was navigating the digital world. From establishing a social media presence to understanding online marketing strategies, Sheetal found herself stepping into an unfamiliar realm. However, with the unwavering support of her children, who helped her understand the nuances of the digital landscape, Sheetal slowly adapted and learned the ropes of running an online business.
Another challenge was managing finances and inventory, a task that proved to be both time-consuming and complicated. But through patience and a willingness to seek guidance, Sheetal realized the importance of delegation and teamwork. As Kalam grew, she embraced the idea that asking for help and working with others was a strength, not a weakness.
Perhaps the boldest decision Sheetal made was staying true to her artistic vision. Despite countless suggestions to add color to her designs in order to appeal to a broader market, Sheetal remained committed to her black-and-white paisley style. This decision was not just about art – it was about sticking to her identity and trusting her creative instincts.
Awards & Recognitions
- Featured in the coffee table book “Rising Stars” by (GCCI) Business Women Wing, launched at Vibrant Gujarat Business Women Conclave (2015).
- Recognized as one of the “100 Women Entrepreneurs” by L.I.F.E’s Leader in Female Entrepreneur in the Art & Gifting Category (2016).
- Received the Garima Award 2016-2017 presented by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industries (GCCI) for artwork and entrepreneurship of Kalam by Sheetal K Majithia.
- Recognized by Start-n-Excel with a ‘Super Mom’ title on the occasion of Mother’s Day (May 2018).
- Won the Bookmark Making Competition organized by The American Corner, Ahmedabad (July 2018).
Features in Publications & Media
- Featured in “Swarsetu News Digest”, a popular cultural magazine of Gujarat (October 2016).
- Featured in “Sakhi”, a monthly Gujarati magazine (October 2016).”
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Sheetal has grand plans for Kalam. She envisions the brand becoming globally recognized, reaching international markets and continuing to bring hand-drawn art to the masses. In the next 10 to 25 years, she hopes to explore new creative avenues beyond lifestyle products, focusing even more on the art itself. Most importantly, Sheetal wants Kalam to continue its philanthropic efforts, supporting causes that make a tangible difference in society.
Work-Life Balance
Finding balance between work, family, and social life has always been a priority for Sheetal. She attributes her ability to manage these different aspects of life to having a strong support system – her family, her team, and the joy she finds in her work. By understanding the importance of prioritization and knowing when to delegate, Sheetal has learned to juggle her entrepreneurial responsibilities without compromising her personal life.
Outside of work, Sheetal enjoys spending time with friends and family, cooking, traveling, and, of course, drawing. Art is not just her career – it’s her passion, and she enjoys it even during her free time. Traveling and experiencing new places and flavors also fuel her creativity, keeping her inspired and energized.
Conclusion
In the world of entrepreneurship, success is often measured by numbers and recognition, but for Sheetal, success is about staying true to her purpose – creating meaningful art and contributing to society. Her mantra – Passion, Purpose, Progress – guides her every step, reminding her that growth takes time and dedication.
Kalam’s story is not just about a brand; it’s about an artist’s journey to express herself, connect with the world, and give back in the process. Through each product, each design, and each cause supported, Kalam continues to embody Sheetal’s vision of art with purpose. As the brand grows, it remains firmly grounded in its core values, driven by a passion for creativity and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
