A free-spirited soul is hard to find, but once it is around, it is hard to miss!

Yukta Raheja of Lifestyle Accessory Design batch 2018-2022 is one such!

I vividly remember teaching her Form Studies for the very first time in her design journey, unlike few in the class, she was enjoying the process way more than the hurry to reach the goals or her submission. She could go on and on with her process.

It is then and it is now – nothing much has changed and probably the very reason that is taking her to new heights each day in her successful Design career.

At a very young age Yukta Raheja, secured one of the top 5 nominations at the Indian Jeweller Design Awards, at the Jaipur Jewellery Show in December 2022, powered by GIA. The category that she was nominated for was also the prestigious COUTURE JEWELLERY over 5 lakhs. Yukta was the youngest to be nominated – she submitted one of her designs that she conceived during her Final Year Graduation Project that was mentored by me.

It was a wonderful bespoke hand cuff inspired by the koi fish that wrapped the wrist and extended to the index finger of the wearer. Detailed with diamonds, blue topaz, and specially cut mother of pearls – the piece is a sight to behold!

The piece was sponsored by Kirtilal Kalidas Jewellers, Coimbatore – someone who brought this fish to life. The design takes a full circle when a beautifully designed piece is manufactured well, looks stunning, and fits perfectly on the user!

You take any one of these and the piece may not turn out to be half as good. It is these students, their faith, and their wins that become ours as academicians and proud mentors! Cheers to more!