Archana Jain CEO, PR Pundit, Havas Red After working for seven-and-a-half years at a hotel company and managing corporate PR programmes at a PR consulting firm, Archana Jain set up PR Pundit to undertake benchmarking work in consumer PR in 1998. Over time, she has elevated the company’s status — making it a force to reckon with in the world of integrated communications. A pioneer in the space, Jain has steered the company to remain ahead of the curve. From identifying and nurturing an opportunity in consumer lifestyle and luxury at a time when opportunities were scarce, to embracing influencer marketing — she has always been unabashed about taking risks. Through its journey, PR Pundit (now PR Pundit Havas Red) has garnered appreciation from all quarters. In July 2023, as it completed a glorious 25 years—it was adjudged the Consumer Consultancy of the year in the APAC region in its silver jubilee year. The same year, in November, Jain welcomed investment in the company from the leading international media company Havas. What keeps them going? Even after working for 33 years in the industry, she has no desire to stop. In fact, Jain’s drive to challenge status quo and push boundaries is her secret to success. As someone who believes in walking the talk, she has taken consistent steps to ensure increased representation of women in the workforce. PR Pundit has an 85% women workforce and has welcomed women back after a break. Here’s her advice to the younger generation, “Committed and passionate hard work will lend you invaluable experience and earn you huge respect.” “Luxury is a memorable experience that puts a smile on your face – for me it’s usually holidays in a land of outstanding natural beauty; a pleasurable concert; an unforgettable meal, time out with your loved ones.” Arpita Mehta Founder and Creative Director, Arpita Mehta Designer Arpita Mehta’s cutting-edge designs have made her a new-age force—particularly her refreshing take on traditional silhouettes. She made her foray in the world of fashion in 2009 with her eponymous label, bringing forth her minimalist yet fashion-forward style and sensibilities. Over time, her name has become synonymous with her signature aesthetic of hand-embroidered mirror work ensembles in contemporary cuts and eclectic colour palettes. Her interest in fashion developed early on—pushing her to pursue a degree in Apparel Manufacture and Dress Design from the prestigious SNDT University, Mumbai. Mehta made her debut at the Lakmé India Fashion Week Winter/ Festive ‘13 with the collection, ‘Violet Garden’ that featured unique digital prints embellished with intricate mirror work detailing. Today, Mehta boasts some of the most illustrious clientele that include industrialists, fashion industry stalwarts and celebrities like Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif, Sonam Kapoor, Sonakshi Sinha, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Alia Bhatt, to name a few. Her ensembles are currently available across India and international markets—Aza in Mumbai and Delhi, Fuel in Mumbai, Ensemble in Mumbai and Delhi, OGAAN Delhi and Hyderabad, Vesimi in Dubai and Aashni & Co. in London. The collections are also available online via Pernia’s Pop Up Shop, Aashni & Co. online and Aza online. What’s her advice to the younger generation who want to follow their passion? “Don’t overthink things, leave anxiety aside, be honest to yourself and your craft and the rest will follow.” “Luxebook serves as the ultimate guide, offering insight into all things luxury.” | 18 | 19
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