Hyderabad, June 13, 2025 —
For Harika Dakata, life is a vibrant canvas, one that stretches from the bustling corridors of a recognised corporation to the quiet, creative corners of her Hyderabad home. By day, she navigates the precision of corporate operations; by night, she pours herself into the worlds of art and baking, each stroke and batch a testament to resilience and reinvention.
The Accidental Artist
Harika’s introduction to the world of art did not happen within the walls of a classroom, but rather amid the quiet solitude of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Unsure of where to begin, she used the extra time at home to nurture her creative instincts. Initially, Harika observed art communities on social media from a distance, but gradually she became an active participant. The support and encouragement she encountered online proved to be a turning point in her journey.
First art stall – A leap of faith.
Participating in her first art stall in 2019 was a bold step for Harika. Although she felt nervous at first, the appreciation and sales she received were overwhelming. That day, she discovered more than just an audience—she found a community. Interacting with other artists and being exposed to a variety of styles proved inspiring, and she realized that art is as much about connection as it is about talent. Charcoal art, with its dramatic contrasts and tactile immediacy, quickly became her favorite medium. Still, Harika continues to experiment, working with acrylics, resin, and intricate mandalas. Her detailed sketches of vintage cars and bikes pay tribute to both nostalgia and craftsmanship.
Baking for the Body and Soul
Harika’s creativity extends beyond her art studio and into her kitchen, which she treats as another creative space. She noticed that many people avoided desserts due to health concerns and wanted to create treats that could be enjoyed without guilt. That’s when her brownie and cake journey began. The debut of her dessert stall was an eye-opening experience: customers not only loved the flavors, but many expressed gratitude, saying it was their first guilt-free dessert in years.
“I want to start a cloud kitchen or an art and bake studio where people can come and enjoy their time with guilt free desserts and no added preservatives working on creative arts.”
From 200 sweet beginnings in six months to over 1,000 treats baked by 2025 — Harika’s journey is a recipe for success!. Each order felt like a small celebration. Rather than worrying about sales, she focused on perfecting her products. The heartfelt feedback from customers, especially those celebrating milestones, continues to motivate her. Looking to the future, Harika hopes to open a cloud kitchen or an art and bake studio.
The Balancing Act
Managing a full-time corporate job alongside two creative businesses is demanding for Harika. She acknowledges the challenges, but her passion keeps her going. She has become adept at finding time—whether it’s early mornings or late nights—to pursue her interests. On difficult days, she reminds herself of her original motivation. Harika’s journey resonates with many working women who aim to balance their careers and personal aspirations. She believes it’s not necessary to choose just one path; starting small, seeking out a community, and letting passion lead the way can make it possible.
Looking Ahead
Harika’s story is still unfolding. She looks forward to expanding her portfolio of vintage sketches and experimenting with new baking recipes. For her, there is always a new skill to master or a fresh challenge to embrace. To anyone observing from afar, her experience serves as a reminder that creativity is essential, not optional. Through both art and baking, Harika continues to enrich her own life and that of her community, one thoughtful creation at a time. Today’s consumers seek transparency, quality, and creativity—and her home-based treats deliver just that.
For those interested in exploring Harika Dakata’s guilt-free creations or following her artistic journey, she shares her work and updates on social media:
- Art Page: @Harika_blossom_artz
- Baking Page: Artisianbakes_
As India’s relationship with dessert evolves, one thing is clear: the days of choosing between indulgence and wellness are over.
