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 Dharini Upadhyaya for an interview with Brilliant Read Media. To say further, Dharini is an Entrepreneur and Co-Founder & Co-CEO at Furtados School of Music. Let’s learn more about her background, inspiring journey so far and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Dharini:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
I grew up in a traditional Gujarati family with no grand ambitions early on. I wasn’t the brightest or most popular kid in school, but I found my joy outside the classroom — in activities that allowed me to express myself more freely. My father was always my biggest cheerleader and supported me wholeheartedly as I moved into college.
It was during school that I fell in love with the performing arts, but by the time I reached college, I had a strong desire to become financially independent. I took up every opportunity that came my way — odd jobs, internships, big and small roles — and those experiences gave me a deeper understanding of different work cultures and taught me how to find solutions in any situation.
After graduation, I felt the need to equip myself further, which led me to pursue an MBA from Pune University. I began my corporate journey as a management trainee at ICICI Bank, and from there, my career took off. My time at ICICI, DBS, and Barclays was filled with rich experiences and growth. I discovered a deep passion for giving my best to every role I took on, no matter how big or small.
How did you discover your passion?
Dance and music were always my happy place. But it wasn’t until after my third stint in banking that I started feeling the need to create something of my own — something that allowed more freedom and creativity. Around the same time, my friend and now business partner, Tanuja, and I were both itching for a new challenge. We had worked together at Barclays and were in sync about wanting to do something meaningful.
As we brainstormed different ideas, one thing became clear to me — if nothing else worked out, I’d still be happy retiring with a small music school in Himachal. That thought kept coming back. Tanuja had a music education background from her time in Singapore and was from the Furtados family, which helped connect more dots.
We decided to dive deep. We studied the global music education space, partnered with the best educators, and set out to create a music learning environment that was structured, fun, and lifelong. That’s how our journey into building a music education company began.
Who has been the biggest source of motivation in your daily life?
I truly believe both nature and nurture shape who we are. My biggest inspiration has always been my mother. Watching her navigate life — without formal education, yet with unmatched resilience and strength — taught me that no obstacle is too big if you’re willing to fight through it. She raised us with values, grit, and determination, all by living it herself every day.
And then there’s my father — the kindest soul, who taught me to see good in every person and situation. He believed in doing good without expecting anything in return, and somehow, life always rewarded him in the same way. Their values and their energy keep me going and remind me every day to give my best, with kindness and purpose.
What are some strategies that have helped you grow personally?
a) Never say no to new challenges — that’s where the learning happens.
b) Work hard until the job is truly done.
c) Take on everything that comes my way — because opportunity often comes disguised as extra work.
d) Stay positive, no matter the situation. Relentlessness and optimism have always helped me bounce back.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
The biggest key for me is to walk the talk — do what you say you will, and finish what you start. Integrity and follow-through go a long way.
What advice would you give to our readers?
Do what truly lights you up. Find that one thing you care deeply about and chase it wholeheartedly. Success doesn’t come easy — there will be sacrifices, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But if you keep learning, adapting, and pushing forward, you’ll get there.
Break things if needed, rebuild them stronger, and stay committed to your passion and purpose. That’s where true happiness and fulfilment lie.
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.
