Vidisha Bathwal, a 39-year-old artisanal gourmet caterer and founder of Paprika Dubai, discusses her relationship with money in a recent interview. Originally from India, she has been living in Dubai for four years and started her career as a hedge fund analyst in London before transitioning to the food industry with the creation of Paprika in Kolkata in 2011. Money, to her, signifies affluence and abundance, providing independence and security.
Bathwal’s relationship with money is centered around the idea of security and financial independence. She values the ability to make her own decisions and believes that holding onto money is essential for stability. This mindset was shaped by her entrepreneurial journey, where the focus was initially on earning and sustaining the business. The pursuit of financial freedom and growth has ingrained in her a desire for affluence and the idea of always having more than enough.
Growing up, Bathwal learned valuable lessons about money management from her mother. She emphasizes the importance of saving and budgeting wisely, especially during lean periods when income is not steady. While she acknowledges her tendency towards impulsive spending, particularly when it comes to shopping for business supplies like cutlery, she remains mindful of the need to invest wisely and cut unnecessary expenses.
When it comes to seeking advice on financial matters, Bathwal consults her husband for a second opinion on investments and budgeting. She does not consider money a taboo topic and believes that open communication about financial decisions can lead to better outcomes. While she values external perspectives, she acknowledges that her own experiences have been the most significant teacher when it comes to financial management.
One of Bathwal’s key insights about money is the importance of good decision-making and financial discipline. She attributes her financial success to prudent choices, such as saving a significant amount while working in London and using those savings to start her own business upon returning to India. This decision not only demonstrated her financial independence but also earned her the pride and respect of her family for achieving success on her own terms.
Living in the UAE has influenced Bathwal’s relationship with money, as she observes the high standards and luxury lifestyles prevalent in the region. The culture of abundance and materialism has both inspired and challenged her perceptions of wealth and success. Reflecting on her financial journey, Bathwal advises her younger self and future generations to be mindful of spending and to recognize the value of hard-earned money, emphasizing the need for financial prudence and responsibility.
Despite making some mistakes and facing unexpected losses during the early years of her business, Bathwal considers starting her own company as her most significant financial decision and source of pride. She recalls the temptation to spend lavishly during her earlier career but instead chose to save diligently and invest in her entrepreneurial venture, a choice that ultimately led to her success and financial independence. Overall, Bathwal’s financial journey underscores the importance of learning from past experiences and making informed decisions to achieve financial stability and success.
