My Story: From Working At Microsoft To A Self Taught Calligrapher, Life Has Come A Long Way

As a management student, I was always fond of making it big in the corporate world someday. One day, the dream came true, and I landed up at Microsoft, where I saw much success across many roles. As an alumnus of Sharda University Delhi, where I completed my master's degree in marketing, I worked at the company for more than two years, but, as they say, destiny had some other plans. Covid struck! The conditions were such that I had to pack my bags and come back to my hometown. During the lockdown, the Covid stress took a heavy toll on my body and my mental health. I used to overthink a lot, and that used to give me anxiety.

It all started last year during the lockdown. While I was trying to fix myself emotionally, a Pakistani drama called "Alif" started. It depicted the art of Islamic calligraphy marvellously that it struck me from within. So I thought to myself that why don't I start doing the same as I was fond of Arabic calligraphy since my childhood. So I decided to follow my childhood instincts and translated my passion for art and calligraphy into a commercial venture. I would try my hands to draw lines, names, phrases initially. I got engrossed in it gradually and found myself at peace. Calligraphy has given me a new lease on life.

Amid the Covid 19 lockdown, I couldn't buy the necessary pieces of equipment that this art requires. So I started with a simple pen and paper, invested all my time into it, the contentment it used to give me was unmeasurable. I'm neither a fine art student nor I had any prior artwork experience, it's all self-taught.

My Abu is fond of Arabic calligraphy as well, so when I used to make any art during my initial days, he used to appreciate and encourage me for my work. It's been more than a year now, and I can proudly say I have evolved as an artist. Now I master mandalas, coasters, leaf calligraphy besides sketching.

It's so important to get virtually connected and recognised by customers on social media platforms. Since I'm a marketing student, I know the tools for promotion. What started as a passion has now turned into a business, all praises to the Almighty. I don't try to copy anyone; I have my way of presenting art to the audience. I add beautiful colours to the backdrop so that my calligraphy grabs everyone's attention. It's so overwhelming when my customers give me positive reviews and trust my work. Initially, I used to do it for free, but then I realised people can't value free products. So I started charging. Half of the amount from my art goes to charity.

It's such a thoughtful idea to gift your loved ones a piece of art that has their names written in beautiful calligraphy. Only one piece in the whole wide world and that will last forever.

If you too have an inspiring story to tell the world, send us your story at mystory@thelogicalindian.com