Sopore girl turns kitchen experiment into handmade sweet success

Sopore, Sep 7: What started as a humble kitchen experiment two years ago has now blossomed into a thriving homemade sweet venture for Gazala Rashid, a young entrepreneur from Sopore.

With nothing but basic ingredients, patience, and creativity, Gazala has turned her passion for sweets into a growing enterprise that has captured the hearts of her community.

Fresh out of college, Gazala began crafting chocolate barfi, laddus, and dates barfi for family and friends. Initially, these creations were shared in small boxes, carrying her care and affection. However, the uniqueness of her handmade sweets quickly caught attention, spreading beyond her immediate circle.

The chocolate barfi became a favorite among children, laddus evoked traditional flavors, and dates barfi offered a healthier, guilt-free indulgence. Each sweet carries its own story—blending love, tradition, and innovation in every bite.

Community support became a key motivator for Gazala. Repeat orders and word-of-mouth referrals encouraged her to expand her operations from a home kitchen to a small local enterprise. She emphasises that entrepreneurship is not only a personal journey but also a way to inspire youth in her community.

Gazala urges youth to explore entrepreneurship instead of solely depending on government jobs. “With dedication and innovation, young people can create sustainable livelihood opportunities. Home-based businesses not only support families but also contribute to local economic growth,” she adds.

As she celebrates two years of her sweet journey, Gazala looks ahead with ambition and gratitude. Her vision is to continue innovating, preserving the essence of traditional sweets, and expanding her handmade creations to reach a wider audience, fostering sustainable growth in her community.

Her story is a testament to how passion, perseverance, and creativity can turn simple ideas into meaningful ventures that delight communities and inspire young entrepreneurs.