We sit down with philanthropist, entrepreneur, and political leader Zarine Manchanda at her Mumbai office, where the walls are adorned with awards and photographs from her various ventures. Known affectionately as the “Princess of the Poor,” Zarine’s journey from Bollywood aspirant to social changemaker is nothing short of remarkable.
Interviewer: Zarine, let’s start from the beginning. You were born near Dharamshala, in a prominent political family. How did your early life shape who you are today?
Zarine: Growing up near Dharamshala was incredibly formative. My father was a minister, my mother a businesswoman, and we lived close to the Dalai Lama’s residence. That environment instilled in me values of leadership, resilience, and most importantly, compassion. The spirituality that permeated our surroundings taught me that true success comes from service to others. These weren’t just lessons – they became the foundation of everything I’ve done since.
Interviewer: After university, you moved to Mumbai with dreams of becoming an actress. That’s quite a leap from your political family background.
Zarine: laughs Yes, it was! I was young and had this burning ambition to make it in Bollywood. But the competitive world of cinema tested my patience and perseverance in ways I never imagined. While the spotlight eluded me, that struggle ignited something deeper – a resilience that would later guide everything I do. Sometimes what feels like failure is actually preparation for your true calling.
Interviewer: That’s a beautiful way to frame it. So when did you realize your true calling lay elsewhere?
Zarine: The turning point came in 2019. I realized I wanted to channel my energy into something more meaningful than personal fame. That’s when I founded the Zarine Manchanda Foundation in Aarey Colony. I wanted to provide food, clothing, and essential resources to Mumbai’s underserved communities. It became my life’s mission.
Interviewer: The foundation’s work during the pandemic was particularly noteworthy. Can you tell us about that?
Zarine: Those were challenging times for everyone, but especially for the most vulnerable. Despite the restrictions and difficulties, we managed to organize over 500 donation programs in just two years. I was hands-on with every single program. It wasn’t just about giving – it was about showing up, being present, and proving that no one is forgotten.
Interviewer: From philanthropy, you ventured into entrepreneurship with some very unique businesses. Tell us about that transition.
Zarine: I’ve always believed in blending purpose with innovation. Each of my ventures reflects this philosophy. Zarine Manchanda Café combines Tibetan spirituality with premium dining – it’s hospitality with soul. Then came Heavenly Flavours, India’s first 7-star cloud kitchen, which redefined food delivery standards.
Interviewer: You also broke significant barriers with your security business, didn’t you?
Zarine: Yes! With Premium Security Services, I became the only woman in India to own a high-end security business. It wasn’t easy entering a male-dominated industry, but I was determined to break stereotypes. In 2023, I added Flavours of Himachal Pradesh, Mumbai’s first 7-star Himachali restaurant specializing in traditional dham cuisine. Each business honors my cultural roots while pushing boundaries.
Interviewer: Your achievements have earned impressive recognition. How does it feel to receive awards like the Nelson Mandela Peace Award?
Zarine: It’s deeply humbling. Being named Young Entrepreneur of the Year, receiving recognition as a Young Philanthropist by The Times of India, and being featured in publications like Femina, India Today, and Economic Times – these acknowledgments mean everything because they amplify the causes I care about. But honestly, being called the “Princess of the Poor” by the communities I serve means more to me than any formal award.
Interviewer: Speaking of recognition, in December 2021, you were appointed Regional Director for BRICS in Mumbai. How did that feel?
Zarine: That appointment by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry was a tremendous honor. It validated not just my work, but also opened doors to create impact on a larger scale. It’s one thing to help locally, but having a platform to influence regional development – that’s where real systemic change happens.
Interviewer: And now you’ve entered politics with the launch of your own party in 2024. What drove that decision?
Zarine: Launching the Zarine Manchanda People’s Party was a natural progression of my service commitment. I realized that to truly represent and uplift Mumbai’s poorest communities, I needed to be inside the system driving reform. My mission is clear – systemic change in the city’s social and economic framework. Politics isn’t about power for me; it’s about policy that serves people.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to women who want to create change but don’t know where to start?
Zarine: First, embrace change – pivoting can unlock opportunities you never imagined. Stay grounded in service because success only gains meaning when it uplifts others. Dream beyond limits and challenge every stereotype that tries to box you in.
Most importantly, see failure as growth. Every rejection I faced in Bollywood became the foundation for my future triumphs. And finally, find your purpose – align your ambitions with your values. That’s where lasting fulfillment lives.
Interviewer: Your journey is still unfolding. What’s next for Zarine Manchanda?
Zarine: smiles warmly The journey is far from over. I’m expanding my ventures, deepening my political work, and my focus on philanthropy remains unwavering. I want to continue inspiring people to believe that determination, compassion, and vision can transform not just individual lives, but entire communities. Legacy isn’t about what you achieve for yourself – it’s about the change you create for others.
Interviewer: Any final words for our readers?
Zarine: Remember that moments of loss often shape our greatest triumphs. Your struggles today are preparing you for your purpose tomorrow. Never give up on your dreams, but be open to discovering that your true calling might be even bigger than what you originally imagined.