Visionaries With Shruti Kothari | Business Remedies | April 22, 2025 | When legacy whispers law, but your heart beats for design, you carve your own signature. That’s precisely what Surabhi Kasliwal Godha did. Born into a family steeped in legal tradition, Surabhi chose a different path—one where creativity and craftsmanship reign. Leaving behind courtrooms for carats, she founded Surabhi – Fine Crafted Jewels, a brand where heritage seamlessly blends with haute couture. With a perfect balance of discipline, precision, and panache, Surabhi doesn’t just craft jewellery—she redefines her identity, one timeless piece at a time.
In conversation with Surabhi Kasliwal Godha, Founder and Designer at Surabhi – Fine Crafted Jewels
Shruti: Surabhi, your family is known for its legacy in Jaipur’s legal profession. Can you tell us more about your background?
Surabhi: I come from a family with a deep-rooted legacy in law. My father, Shri Sudhanshu Kasliwal Ji, has spent decades in the legal field as a respected senior lawyer. My mother, Ritu Kasliwal Ji, along with him, is deeply involved in philanthropic work—a value that runs strong in our family. Both my sisters chose to walk the legal path too, keeping the tradition alive. As for me, I’ve always been drawn to a different kind of sparkle—the world of jewellery.
Shruti: So, where did this sparkle first come from? What ignited your love for jewellery design?
Surabhi: Jewellery has always felt like a part of me. My biggest inspiration was my grandmother, Late Shrimati Lalita Devi ji Kasliwal. I have such fond memories of her sitting with our family jeweller, carefully designing beautiful pieces for the women in our family. I’d quietly watch, completely enchanted. I still remember finding some zircon stones as a little girl and sweetly asking the jeweller if he could turn them into earrings for me. That small moment lit a spark in me. From then on, I just knew—this is where my heart belongs. One of my most treasured memories is gifting my grandmother a custom emerald and diamond pendant, made from my very first savings. The smile on her face… I’ll never forget it.
Shruti: So, what was your academic and professional journey like?
Surabhi: It was quite a ride! I kicked off my jewellery design journey at the Jewellery Design and Technology Institute in Noida, diving into a challenging three-year program that taught me everything from design to merchandising. Alongside that, I kept my academic roots strong and completed my B.Com from Maharani College in Jaipur. During this time, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with the legendary jeweller, Mr. Poppy Dandiya, where I got hands-on with real-world jewellery design experience.
Shruti: What shaped your early journey in the industry?
Surabhi: I stepped in with a lot of heart. Right after my course, I began at SEEPZ in Mumbai with Gemplus India, KGK, and Geetanjali. From 1998 to 2006, it was a beautiful whirlwind—designing, manufacturing, curating global exhibitions from Hong Kong to Dubai, and even working with Eros and MTV. Those years really shaped my journey, giving me experience, exposure, and a clearer vision.
Shruti: Surabhi, when we talk about luxury, what makes Surabhi – Fine Crafted Jewels stand out?
Surabhi: Well, it’s all about blending heritage with handcrafted luxury. At Surabhi – Fine Crafted Jewels, we offer everything—from royal Rajputana jadau and sparkling diamonds to timeless Victorian pieces, chic contemporary designs, and even a special collection for men, kids, and silver lovers. But if you ask me, our heart beats for bridal jewellery. We design and customise everything—from roka rings to bridal grandeur—for the bride, groom, and their families. Everything is crafted with care in our Jaipur workshop, and you can explore our collections at our showrooms in Narain Niwas Palace and The Johri LaL Haveli.
Shruti: How did you make your mark in an industry dominated by legacies??.
Surabhi: Starting from scratch was my first challenge. My father isn’t a jeweller, so there was no family setup waiting for me. I had to learn the craft—every single aspect, from melting silver to setting stones. I still remember the bruises on my hands from all the hard, hands-on work.
But the real game-changer? Entering a world where 80% of Jaipur was already in the jewellery business. The industry was dominated by men with legacies, huge stockpiles, and loyal clientele. While I came from a privileged family background, I had no showroom, no established name in the jewellery world—just my passion and a burning desire to carve my own space. My family name helped me gain initial trust, but I had to fight tooth and nail to build my niche, prove my worth, and rise above the competition.
It was a battle—starting from zero, in a male-dominated industry—but I was determined to make my mark, and I did.
Shruti: How have social media and global changes affected the jewellery industry?
Surabhi: The jewellery business has shifted from physical stores to digital platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram. Having a strong online presence is essential, as exhibitions have become oversaturated and competition has intensified. Also, rising gold prices have made jewellery more expensive, tightening clients’ budgets. While our business is growing, I hope for more stability in gold prices to better serve our customers.
Shruti: How do you balance work and personal time?
Surabhi: Work is my happy place—I genuinely thrive in it. I don’t get stressed; I get going. While socializing takes a backseat, my world revolves around my work and my home.
I’m blessed with a supportive family. My parents along with my husband, Shri Hemant Godha and my in-laws have been my backbone since day one. With their support, I’ve been able to pursue my passion without compromise—even if most holidays still come with a work agenda!
Shruti: What drives your vision beyond the jewellery world?
Surabhi: My journey is rooted in mindful growth—whether it’s expanding our presence or exploring global platforms, I believe in moving forward with purpose. Beyond the business, I feel grateful to be part of groups like FICCI FLO, JITO, and a few wonderful NGOs. Giving back fills me with a different kind of joy. And through it all, the teachings of Late Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj have been my anchor—his wisdom quietly shapes the way I live and lead.
Interviewd By:
Shruti Kothari
