By Dr. Payal Gaurav Mehta
My name is Dr. Payal Gaurav Mehta, and today I speak not only as an Assistant Professor at GLS University, Faculty of Law, but also as a woman who has built her identity through education, resilience, and a deep commitment to bringing ancient Indian wisdom into contemporary life. My journey was not shaped in comfort — it was shaped through responsibility, loss, learning, and an unbreakable desire to rise again and again.
Academically, I hold degrees in B.A. (Advertising, Sales & Marketing), M.A. (English Literature), MBA (Human Resources), LL.B., LL.M. and a Doctorate in English Literature and Management. Even as a student, I was never someone who attended college just for lectures – I was actively involved, confident and always eager to contribute. I was a part of the core committee of my college, and that early sense of leadership later became the foundation of the professional I am today.
For nearly two decades, I have been teaching Communication and Legal Language, while facilitating countless soft skills training sessions, both online and offline. I have had the privilege of addressing audiences at some of the most respected institutions and forums in India – including IIMA, IIM Calcutta, SheThePeople National TV, American Corner, Multi-Tasking Mommies Forum, Womenology, WICCI, Rotary Group, and many more.
From literature to law, from soft skills to spiritual symbolism, one thing has remained constant in my journey – my love for knowledge. I am a voracious reader and a passionate Bharatnatyam classical dancer, and I deeply cherish the roots of Sanatan Dharma and ancient Indian scriptures. I believe knowledge has power only when it is applied with awareness, humility and purpose.
My Doctoral research was a turning point in shaping my philosophy and my voice. My thesis – “Challenges faced by Pink Entrepreneurs with special reference to Mompreneurs in the state of Gujarat” – helped me understand women’s journeys at a deeper level. Conducting high-intensity interviews while pursuing my PhD allowed me to witness real stories of strength, struggle and self-discovery. Later, my research transformed into a full book titled:
“From Pink Entrepreneurs to Mompreneurs: Journey So Far!”
My passion today lies in bridging ancient knowledge with modern living, especially for the youth. I want youngsters to embrace global progress while staying rooted in Indian values. My clients include universities, youth networks, professional forums and startup communities, and what makes my work different is my ability to understand their perception and make them realize the importance of maintaining Indian roots while growing in a competitive contemporary world.
My vision is powerful, spiritual and national –
To conduct trainings and write a book that changes the vision of the youth and helps them rediscover natural survival instincts and mental peace through ancient knowledge – and to contribute to making India a global power house.
Behind every achievement, there have been challenges that tested my physical, emotional and mental strength. In 2016, when my son was born, I lost my mother-in-law. Two years later, I lost my mother as well. While nurturing a newborn and managing family responsibilities, I was also completing my PhD and maintaining my professional work. Balancing home, job, research, grief and motherhood at once felt like running a never-ending marathon. But I did not stop. I chose consistency over surrender and discipline over emotion. Today, when I look back, that period represents the strongest version of me.
Many ask me about work–life balance, and the most truthful answer is this – balance is not natural; it is intentional. I learned to say “No” when necessary, to prioritize without guilt and to protect my peace without explanation. I enjoy reading, classical dancing and spending time with my two sons – Prayagraj and Dhruvraaj, my greatest motivation and my biggest source of energy.
If I were to define success in my life, I would measure it not by positions or awards, but by how many roles I have fulfilled with responsibility and dignity. I lost my father at 24, and my mother at 36, yet I continued fulfilling every role – as a visiting faculty, a full-time assistant professor, a researcher, a mother, a daughter-in-law, and now as a mentor to many. I consider myself successful because I proved that circumstances can shake you, but they cannot stop you unless you allow them to.
My success mantra is simple and powerful:
Never play the victim card. Never play the woman card. Being feminist does not mean standing against men. Don’t expect a prince or a king to make you feel like a queen. Be a queen – rise on your own.
My husband has been my strongest support system throughout my journey, and I believe a supportive partner is a blessing that must always be acknowledged with gratitude.
If I could give one message to young entrepreneurs and dreamers, it would be this:
There will be days when you feel exhausted, misunderstood or unsupported – do not give up. Consistency is the golden key to success. Growth belongs to those who keep moving even when life becomes difficult. Rise with grace, work with faith and walk with self-respect.
My dream is to continue contributing to India, to knowledge, to womanhood and to younger generations. I am still evolving, still learning and still growing – and I will continue doing so as long as life allows.
Because, truly –
Once upon a time, there was a Queen. And she continues to rise.
