June 2001 My husband, our sons, and I boarded a train from Dandeli to Bengaluru, leaving behind a peaceful, cocooned life in the forests for a city we barely knew. Finances were tight and the future uncertain, but hope travelled with us. As our sons prepared to begin full-day school, a simple, life-changing question played on my mind: What next for me? The answer appeared instantly it was time to return to my first love: chocolates. The Birth of JusTrufs Years before marriage and motherhood, I ran a small homegrown chocolatierie in Bandra, Mumbai. So when it was time to begin again in Bengaluru, I chose the same principles that had once guided me: No loans. No pressure. Only passion, purpose, and perseverance. Our early days were a beautiful blend of chaos and joy. Weekend pop-ups meant the children became my cheerful sales team; last-minute orders meant their time for homework was occasionally spent packing truffles. Today, when I see the creative, responsible adults they have become, I know we did just fine! From that little home kitchen, I sourced raw materials and packaging, supported by generous vendors who appeared at just the right moments. And that tiny space is where some of our earliest bestsellers were born Rum Truffle, Original Truffle, and chocolate-coated biscuits. Sweet Serendipity Two encounters in those early days shaped JusTrufs in ways I never expected. The first was meeting my neighbour Devika Thukral, who went on to design our very first logo, boxes, and brochure. Her contribution became the visual identity that helped us take our first steps with confidence. The second was a chance meeting at a print shop. While picking up those newly printed brochures, I met Manize Sait, founder of The School of Ancient Wisdom. She ordered 2 kg of chocolates and insisted I deliver them personally. That visit marked the beginning of a spiritual journey one that quietly influenced our values, philosophy, and the way we built JusTrufs. 24 Years Later My Philosophy Every day, every chance encounter, every twist and turn has been a blessing. Our family, our incredible vendors, our passionate team (who put their whole hearts into every box), and our loyal clientssome of whom have become dear friendsare the pillars of JusTrufs. After more than 2 decades, here is my philosophy: Follow your heart not just the numbers. Data matters, but passion and clarity lead! Trust your team they will surprise you. Give people space, and they grow beyond what you imagined. Stay grateful every step of the way! ...Because every connection, no matter how unexpected, happens for a reason. Looking Ahead From a small home kitchen to a beloved chocolate brand, JusTrufs has given us more than we ever imagined on that train ride purpose, joy, community, and a life built on sweetness and love! The journey continues, and it only gets sweeter with each year
