In the heart of Mumbai, amidst the bustling streets and the relentless pursuit of dreams, there lies a story of a woman who transformed her narrative — from an aspiring actress to a beacon of change. This is Zarine Manchanda, whose journey is not just about achieving professional success but about redefining what success truly means.

Zarine Manchanda was born and raised in a prominent political family near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, the daughter of a Minister and successful businessman, near the home of the Dalai Lama. Following university, she moved to Mumbai to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.

Where It All Started

“I always believed that Mumbai was where stars were born, and I wanted to shine,” Zarine recalls about her initial days in the film industry. Despite her determination, the glamour world presented challenges that were as daunting as they were transformative.

“The rejections were tough; each one felt like a personal failure. But in hindsight, they were steering me towards a path I was meant to follow.”

This path led her to establish the Zarine Manchanda Foundation in 2019, a pivot that marked the beginning of her journey into philanthropy and entrepreneurship. “I realized that while I could not control the opportunities given to me, I could create opportunities for others,” Zarine states.

With this success, Zarine made another bold move, venturing into the hospitality industry by opening a luxurious Café in Mumbai named Zarine Manchanda Café with a slogan Delicious, Luxurious Spiritual Charm.

In addition to the stylish and sophisticated décor and tableware, the Café’s USP is the offering of a blessing to its patrons and the ringing of Tibetan Bells from Dharamshala. Zarine’s interior design company, Zarine Manchanda Interiors, created the Café’s luxurious décor.

Zarine Manchanda is now regarded as a founder of the 7-Star café experience in India and is looking to aggressively grow the café in India and internationally as a global franchising brand.

Milestones of Impact

With all these successes showcasing a uniquely empowered woman and role model, Zarine has appeared on the cover of FEMINA magazine; was separately named one of the “Fabulous 50 Women” by Femina in 2020; was named one of India Today’s “45 Most Influential Indians” commemorating their 45th anniversary edition in 2020; received awards from Economic Times for her multiple business expansion and received an award from the Times of India as a Young Philanthropist in January 2021.

Within each of Zarine’s accolades is a story of persistence, innovation, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference. “Being recognized is not just an honor; it’s a reminder of the responsibilities I carry,” Zarine remarks, reflecting on her awards.

Her ventures, including the luxurious interiors company and the premium security service, are extensions of her mission to create empowering environments. “Empowerment is about providing the tools for people to elevate themselves,” she emphasizes.

Zarine is a 2-time National Award Winner, for her extraordinary and exemplary work helping the poor through her Foundation and received two Governor Awards from the Governor of Maharashtra, the esteemed Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

Zarine was also awarded the Nelson Mandela Peace Award, which conferred upon her a Doctorate Degree recognizing her invaluable contributions in serving the poor and helping India’s neediest through her Foundation’s prolific programs, which continued despite COVID.

She also received an award for her charity and philanthropic work at the All-India Council on Human Rights & Social Justice, Delhi India, in December 2022.

In 2022, Zarine received Midday Magazine’s “Power Woman Award”, felicitated as “Iconic Young Entrepreneur & Philanthropist of the Year” at the Governor’s House in Mumbai.

In March 2022, Zarine was awarded “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in Delhi, where she was Guest of Honor.

Due to Zarine’s substantial media coverage in India’s leading business and political magazines as award-winning philanthropist, CEO and young entrepreneur, Zarine was appointed Regional Director in Mumbai for BRICS, the prestigious geopolitical and economic trade organization that brings together five important nations to pursue increased trade and mutual economic interests. This appointment was made in December 2021 by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

In another prestigious appointment, in June 2023, Zarine was named Chairperson & Editor in Chief by India’s National Council of News & Broadcasting for the states of Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa. This position covers important issues relating to freedom of the press, media reforms and human rights and peace.

Showcasing her diverse skill set and wide range of attributes yet again, Zarine also featured as a Showstopper at two Bombay Times Fashion Week Galas in December 2020 and October 2021.

Adding to her branded, award-winning, multiple business expansions as a young woman entrepreneur, Zarine launched two new companies in 2022: “Heavenly Flavors”, a 7-star cloud kitchen and food delivery service and “Zarine Manchanda Premium Security Service”, a 7-star security agency. She is the only woman to own a security services business in India.

And in 2023, Zarine opened a restaurant, Flavors of the Himachal Pradesh, a 7-star restaurant in Mumbai, the city’s very first Himachal restaurant. The restaurant’s specialty is Dham, a vegetarian thali offering that is true to the history and traditions of this hill state. It is a culinary feast that takes two days to prepare and is traditionally served on holidays, festivals and auspicious events. The restaurant’s chefs come from Himachal Pradesh where they were masters of the art of Dham cooking.

The Road Ahead

Zarine’s style of leadership is deeply rooted in her early experiences and struggles. “My journey taught me that real leadership is about service, about elevating those around you,” she reflects. Her foundation, which started by administering food and clothing programs in Mumbai, became a testament to her commitment to service, impacting thousands of lives.

The challenge of balancing a high-flying career with personal life is not lost on Zarine. “There are days when the balance tips, but I’ve learned that being true to your values is what matters most,” she shares candidly. Zarine credits her ability to maintain this balance to her disciplined approach and the support of her team and family.

Looking forward, Zarine is poised to expand her influence through her political ambitions and international expansion of her café brand. “My vision is clear—empower, elevate, and inspire. Whether it’s through politics or my cafés, the core of my work will always revolve around these principles,” she asserts.

Her journey is a powerful reminder that true leadership is crafted through challenges, and success is measured by the impact one creates. “Every step I take is about leaving a legacy that transcends the boundaries and touches the lives of people,” Zarine concludes, her eyes set firmly on the horizons of change and progress.