Jounrey into creations
350+
Event Presented
100+
Artwork's sold worldwide
450+
Stage presentations
An Artist living in Wonderland
From the places I lived and life I created.
The Story of a Little Girl from India and Her Artistic Dreams
Hi there!
I am Anju!
I wanted to share a bit about my journey and how it led me to where I am today.
Childhood and Early Dreams of an Artist
I grew up in India, surrounded by my loving family. My dad adored me and always showed immense faith in me, which I think boosted my confidence in life. My mom was pretty strict, but I’m grateful for that because she taught me valuable lessons and skills that I use every single day. I wholeheartedly believe your upbringing plays a crucial role in your life.
Fortunately, my household was modern, with hardly any restrictions. My dad was a general manager in a bank, and my mom was a housewife. My brother was a talented boy, and I was the creative one. I saw art in everything. I remember making flowers from onion and orange peels, painting and crafting, collecting dry branches, feeding squirrels in the garden, creating flower pathways, and playing dress-up with friends.
Bakul Tree Memories
Walking to school through a mystical garden at six or seven years old is one of my strongest memory. It had a huge Bakul (Spanish Blossom) tree. I would sit under that tree, collect flowers, tie them with thread and put them in my hair, smell their fragrance, and watch them fall, completely lost in the moment. I am absorbed by nature, that is the one consentience in my life.
There are unlimited stories I’d like to share, and one day I’ll write more about them. I was the entertainer at the school and would do that effortlessly at the teacher’s request. Most teachers called me Kalakaar (meaning artist) and friends called me Archu.
My Journey to the Big Stage and New Friendships
When I was 10 years old my dad moved us to a bigger city. To get admission to a school the headmaster said to me you have to sing in front of 5000 kids, and I did. Soon, I was fully devoted in editing the school magazine, organising school gatherings, and singing at major celebrations. The stage has been a big part of my life. I was performing at the festivals spontaneously.
At 14, I was invited to join the theatre. My dad left the decision up to me, which was a wonderful gift. I spent the next four or five years performing in stage shows, winning awards, and travelling for shows. Here, I met my best friend for life.
Landed in The land of the long white cloud
I received a bundle of joy, my lifeline, when I was 18. It was an indescribable joy to become a mum, and we became best buddies for life. With the right circumstances and decisions, we landed in the beautiful Aotearoa (New Zealand).
I was mesmerized by the beauty of New Zealand. As much as I missed my friends and family, I felt a sense of ease here. I met the most wonderful, kind, and warm people. Their perspectives on life resonated with how I used to think and behave before coming to New Zealand. It didn’t take long for me to bond with Kiwis and make lifelong friendships. I truly found my home here.
Unfolding Philosophy Through Life Experiences
Whenever I have to make big decisions, I ask myself if I have peace with the situation and whether it will change anytime soon. I also consider if my son is happy. Once I have those answers, it doesn’t take long for me to make and stick with my decisions. You always say, “You are what you think you are,” and I am certain that when I make decisions, I never look back. I stay focused and optimistic and can tackle any situation in life when it comes to my family. If I say so, then I have it… right?
For me to have this self-belief, a significant part of it comes from my dad, my mum, and now my son, who lets me be myself. I am ever grateful for everything life has offered me, thrown at me, and put me through, as these experiences have only made me stronger, made me love life more, and made me feel comfortable with who I am and that I am good enough.
Innovative Mind and Abundance of Opportunities for Artists
When I arrived in New Zealand, I realised it was a new country full of opportunities, and my innovative mind was working nonstop. As you know, everything takes time, and it did for me as well. On top of adjusting to a new country, I had a teenage son, no car, and faced many ups and downs. It took a while to get my personal life on track before I could focus on new ventures.
By 2005, I was ready to be an entrepreneur again. I started a graphic design business while studying small business management, which quickly converted into an art gallery. I began running art classes and workshops, teaching holistic Indian home remedies, and offering cooking workshops. I shared everything I knew, creating the best life I could for us.
Unfolding Philosophy Through Life Experiences
Then in 2009, by accident, I came into the Bollywood event business. That is another fun story to tell, and you can read it on my blog. It has been a whirlwind of joy, colours, people, exploration, and magic that the Bollywood party brought to my life. My cultural roots have always been strong, and this allowed me to blossom. I always felt really proud of India and respected the land that gave me life—a deep, meaningful sense of spirituality, holistic living, and Ayurveda.
At the same time, I am in love with New Zealand and want to give my best to anything that comes my way. It is my respect for this lovely country that opened its arms to me and my son.
Adapting and Changing Paths to be Here.
In 2020, my business was at its peak, and then COVID hit. I had to let go of my commercial studios, and everything changed. I’m glad I never lost faith and never had to close this beautiful business. By the end of 2020, the council changed the parameters for events, and I got a chance to organise the biggest events of my life.
In between, it was a difficult time, and I was unsure what to do once the world opened up. As soon as the lockdown was lifted, my phone started ringing. I knew then that I could sustain my business. With life’s twists and turns, I started organising multicultural events, and art exhibitions and became a guest speaker at many events and festivals. There are a few books about wellness on their way, and I recently opened my wellness consultancy with a holistic spice blend business. To bring all that together, this website was created. It ties everything I do it felt like the best path moving forward.
A Heartfelt Thank You for your support.
Thank you very much for being here and reading to the end. I truly appreciate it. I will leave you with my favourite quote: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” Isn’t that simple and amazingly summarised? It’s a reminder of all the stress and pressure we go through in life which most like we do in vain. I always think of this quote before I complain about anything.
As I continue on this journey, I am excited to share my experiences, knowledge, and passion with all of you. Whether it’s through organising events, creating art, or sharing wellness tips, I hope to inspire and connect with you.
Let’s embrace life’s challenges together and make the most of every opportunity.
5 fun facts about Anju
Favourite place:
Answer: It’s hard to pick just one. Whenever I talk about Queenstown or Lake Taupo, I can almost feel the crisp South Island air and see the vibrant colors as if I’m right there, no matter where I actually am. And of course, Paris, Vienna, and Jaipur have a special place in my heart too.
Dream superpower:
Answer: The ability to talk to trees and mountains and get to know their stories. And fly to sunsets and chase the autumns around the world.
Daily non-negotiable:
Answer: A morning gratitude journal, hot water, soaked peeled almonds, fresh ginger tea, and a walk after every meal. And if I get a chance, I just look at the rain, flowers, lights, and shadows – in short, any part of nature.
Favourite memories of travel:
Answer: In Paris, I heard the best live music among the arches of the old buildings. Being in a gondola in Venice made me feel the happiest. Lake Wakatipu gives me nostalgic feelings… mostly in autumn and spring. 3 am having chai with my best friend in Jaipur, and so many more.
My biggest strengths include:
Answer: My ability to connect deeply with people from all walks of life, my creative vision that turns ideas into reality, and ever-lasting optimism. My resilience and adaptability have also helped me navigate life’s twists and turns with grace.
Whether it’s energising a corporate team, inspiring a community, or leading a cultural celebration, I don’t just motivate—I teach practical steps for change, backed by my extensive experience and passion for wellness, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity. More…
Twenty-five years ago, I made peace with myself while living in different countries, deciding that I won’t complain, I won’t blame, and I won’t judge. This mindset helped me to have the right focus on the right things. Let’s Talk. I am truly a phone call or text away. More…
Inspiring and Engaging Speeches
In addition to the topics above, I can also speak about Diwali, Hindu beliefs, arranged marriages, the history of India, Ayurveda, and simple living. Additionally, I cover subjects such as creating everyday rituals for a positive mind, manifestation, the importance of journaling, and gratitude practices.
Let’s talk – hello@anjudesai.co.nz
How I Can Help
Hi there!
It’s wonderful to connect with you here. As we become more aware of our mind-body-soul connection, we seek simple guidelines to understand holistic living. This involves mindful eating, daily mindfulness practices, and working on our manifestations. I was raised in an Ayurvedic holistic lifestyle and know how simplicity can create abundance for the soul and body. Let me help you change simple micro habits to create a soulful life.
With my passions for creativity, art, writing, coaching, and speaking, I’m excited to bring fresh and impressive ideas to your life. Let’s support our community together and bring the best out of them
Thank you for stopping by, and I look forward to catching up soon!
Anju Desai
What Our Clients Say - Art
Hi Anju I saw you speak y’day at Her festival. Thank you for your story. As a single parent and survivor of domestic violence your story resonated very strongly with me. You have also inspired me to believe in the next chapters of life and that one can start afresh. I’m finally getting my strength and power back as an independent woman and your description of returning to your creativity and regaining your spirit and strength has stuck with me ever since your talk. Thank you so much. Your resilience humility honesty and self belief was intoxicating. You have given me a huge amount of faith that starting again isn’t a negative but a positive opportunity. Thank you so much xx Sarah
Sarah Hodgetts
I was very inspired by your sharings and have really thought about the best action to demonstrate to my children. To be the inspiration for them as we are their role models so they be empowered to have healthy relationships in the future
Thank you very much and hope more people will get inspired by your story and thought and morels. 
Nicky Hartley
Thank you, Anju, and the wonderful women who took part. It was inspiring to listen to their stories.
Daryl Cole Curnow
Participating in the Auckland World of Cultures 2024 Women’s Forum was an enriching experience. Anju’s thorough and professional approach, coupled with her warm and authentic demeanour, made the event seamless and cohesive. The pre-event Zoom meetings fostered a sense of community and ensured we were well-prepared.
I felt in safe, experienced hands with Anju’s meticulous attention to detail and interpersonal skills. I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again.
