A chartered accountant (CA) by training and a restaurateur by passion, Sonal Barmecha revels in serving healthy and tasty cuisine to her customers. The dynamic managing director of Sante Hospitality firmly believes that healthy food can be both wholesome and delectable. Ms Barmecha has made it her mission in life to empower as many women as possible. No wonder, most of Sante franchises in India are owned and operated by women. Ms Barmecha – who also owns La Magia and Yumma Swami – is of the strong opinion that both health and indulgence can harmoniously coexist. In fact, the mouth-watering cuisine in her restaurants goes on to prove this without a shred of doubt. In a free-wheeling chat with Sharmila Chand, Ms Barmecha opens up about her likes, dislikes, passions and hobbies.

How do you define yourself?

Compassionate, bold and a strong woman

What is your philosophy of life?

Zero expectations and giving unconditional love

What is your passion in life?

Empowering women and making them independent and serving healthy food to the whole world

What is your management mantra?

Respect everyone, whatever may be their designation. What you give is what you get.

What is your work philosophy?

My work is worship.

A business leader you admire the most...

The one and only Mr Ratan Tata

Your source of inspiration...

Sudha Murthy and Kiran Bedi

You are a tough, serious boss or…

I am tough if people mess up with ethics. Otherwise, I am very down to earth.

What do you enjoy the most in life?

Dancing and meditation

How do you de-stress?

I am a Shiva bhakt (devotee). Spending time in solace with Mahadev is my pure de-stress.

What is your fitness regime?

Gym and weight training thrice a week; 108 Surya Namaskars once a week; and cycling and outdoor cardio twice

Your mantra for success...

Self-competitiveness and self-confidence

Your dream...

To make many women independent financially and seeing my restaurant brand, Sante, going global

Ten years from now, where do we see you?

I see Sante worldwide, and I would make at least 100 women financially independent.