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 Shikha Dadha for an interview with Brilliant Read Media. To say further, Shikha is an Entrepreneur and Founder & CEO at Aurya Diamonds. Let’s learn more about her background, inspiring journey so far and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Shikha:
Can you share how your professional journey began and what inspired you to transition into entrepreneurship?
My professional journey began with a degree in Banking Management from Ethiraj College, Chennai. Early in my career, I explored diverse fields including modelling, acting, and jewelry design. I later pursued a degree in Gem and Jewelry Design from NIFD and became a certified diamond grader and gemologist.
I worked with several leading jewelry brands as a designer and diamond grader, which helped me build strong industry exposure. However, during this time I realized that my true passion lay in creating meaningful impact. I went on to co-found ventures, develop entrepreneurial skills, and eventually discovered my calling in sports administration through my association with Boccia India.
The desire to drive inclusivity and contribute to the growth of sports ultimately inspired me to step into entrepreneurship, blending my professional expertise with a larger purpose.
What motivated you to start your own ventures like Namoh Elektricals and get involved in the jewellery business?
My motivation has always come from the desire to create impact in industries I am passionate about—particularly fashion, luxury, and jewelry. I strongly believe in stepping outside the comfort zone and exploring new opportunities.
The belief that kept me moving forward was simple: I believed in myself and my vision. That mindset helped me take entrepreneurial risks and start ventures such as Namoh Elektricals.
Today, I am especially excited about my newest venture, Aurya Diamonds, which is a dream project close to my heart and reflects my deep connection with the jewelry industry.
What have been the most significant business challenges you’ve faced as a co-founder and how did you overcome them?
As a co-founder, some of the biggest challenges have involved balancing vision with team dynamics and navigating financial uncertainties. Entrepreneurship often requires making difficult decisions while keeping the long-term vision intact.
Overcoming these challenges required adaptability, clear communication, and trusting my instincts. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that resilience is built during difficult moments. Each challenge has strengthened my perspective and leadership.
How do you define your leadership style and how has it evolved as you scaled different initiatives?
My leadership style is collaborative and adaptive. I believe in empowering people, encouraging innovation, and leading by example.
As I’ve grown and scaled different initiatives, I’ve learned the importance of trusting both my team and my instincts. Clear communication and shared purpose are critical. Leadership, for me, is about evolving along with your team while staying aligned with the larger mission.
You’ve received awards such as the Women Entrepreneur Award — what did that recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
Receiving the Women Entrepreneur Award was a meaningful validation of my hard work, dedication, and passion.
On a personal level, it was an incredibly proud moment and a reminder that the work I’m doing is creating impact. Professionally, the recognition helped open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and networks. I remain deeply grateful for that acknowledgment.
Congratulations on your appointment as Joint Secretary on the Advisory Committee at Boccia Sports Federation India — what motivated you to volunteer in para-sports advocacy?
Thank you. It is truly an honor to serve as Joint Secretary on the Advisory Committee at Boccia Sports Federation India.
Giving back has always been important to me, and para-sports advocacy is particularly close to my heart. I believe sports should be inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Through my work with Boccia, I hope to contribute to creating more opportunities and recognition for specially-abled athletes and help build a stronger ecosystem for para-sports.
Where do you see yourself and your various projects five years from now?
Over the next five years, I see myself scaling initiatives that combine business with meaningful impact. Projects like Aurya Diamonds and my work with Boccia India will continue to grow while empowering communities and athletes.
My vision is to create ventures that are not only successful but also purpose-driven. I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities to expand this impact.
Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self just starting out?
If I could give advice to my younger self, it would be to trust my instincts and embrace uncertainty.
Taking risks, learning from failures, and focusing on impact rather than perfection are essential parts of growth. Every journey is unique, and the key is to stay curious, resilient, and open to new possibilities.
How do you balance business leadership, advocacy work, and personal growth?
Balancing business leadership, advocacy, and personal growth requires clear prioritization and a strong sense of purpose.
I focus on impact-driven goals, delegate responsibilities when needed, and ensure I make time for self-reflection and personal well-being. When passion aligns with purpose, maintaining balance becomes much more natural.
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.
