LADYSMITH entrepreneur Kavitha Sewnarayan transforms ordinary Barbie dolls into exquisite cultural pieces, creating customised dolls for Hindu weddings and festivals through her business, The Gifted Maharani.
Image: Facebook
LADYSMITH entrepreneur Kavitha Sewnarayan transforms ordinary Barbie dolls into exquisite cultural pieces, creating customised dolls for Hindu weddings and festivals through her business, The Gifted Maharani.
Her childhood hobby evolved into a meaningful enterprise that celebrates tradition and creativity.
Sewnarayan, 38, makes customised dolls for occasions such as Hindu weddings and its pre-events, anniversaries, and birthdays, among other occasions.
She most recently made a customised doll for Shivaratri, a Hindu festival celebrated annually to worship the deity Lord Shiva.
Sewnarayan said her journey started in her childhood.
She most recently made a customised doll for Shivaratri
Image: SUPPLY
“I loved Barbie dolls, but I did not always like their dresses. I began redesigning and stitching my own outfits for them just for fun. Over time, family and friends encouraged me to turn my hobby into a business.”
Sewnarayan said she started making customised dolls a few years ago when she was asked if she could design dolls for special occasions.
“I realised people appreciate personalised gifts, and that inspired me to offer custom designs. I was also enthusiastic to try it out due to my love for creativity and culture. I truly enjoy designing outfits that reflect tradition and special moments.
“Since then, I have made bridal dolls, as well as those related to Hindu pre-wedding ceremonies such as mehndi and haldi. I have also made dolls for diwali, birthdays and anniversaries. I recently made a doll for Shivaratri, which was something I have never done before, but it came out amazing,” she said.
An Indian bride and groom set.
Image: Facebook
Sewnarayan said it could take several hours or a few days to complete a doll.
“It depends on the design and detail.”
She said her favourites were the bridal, mehndi and haldi dolls.
“They are detailed and meaningful.”
She said she enjoyed seeing the happiness her dolls bring to people.
“My clients appreciate the detail and personal touch. Furthermore, knowing the dolls become keepsakes is very special to me.”
Sewnarayan said her future goal was to grow her business, extending it across the country.
“I also want to expand my range while continuing to celebrate culture and creativity through my work.”