Toska Chocolates was founded by Ishan Pansuria, a Civil Engineer by degree. After his degree, Ishan joined his father’s chemical business. But his love for pure chocolates and passion for making the best fine-chocolates in India, made him quit his father’s business and he started exploring opportunities in the chocolate world. He went to Mumbai and joined Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academy to learn the art & science of making and eating chocolate. Today, he has created one of the most premium and luxurious chocolate brands in the country. In an exclusive interview, he says…
Where/How do you get your best ideas?
I get my best ideas in my bathroom. I spend a decent amount of time in my bathroom in the morning and I am completely zoned out in my bathroom because thats when i m relatively free, without my phone and nobody to disturb me. My mind is free then!
What’s something they don’t teach you in University that you should probably know?
Be Kind! Kindness is Sexy. It helps to win people and win deals.. It makes your work very easy and hassle free
First thing you do as soon as you wake up?
Fold my blanket
What do you hope to see happen in the near future for small businesses in the country?
Small businesses are the future of India, because India has millions of small businesses registered in GST system. I strongly believe that they are the main reason of economic growth and job creation. I believe that they have a very strong future.
What do you typically read?/ Favourite book?
I ready a lot of history. Bt my favourite is “You can Win” by Shiv Khera. It is a very inspiring book.
Best boss you had and what did you learn from them?
I have never worked under anyone. I directly joined my father’s business after my university and with whatever experience I got, I started Toska Chocolates
One thing you learned about yourself.
That I can be a calm person
How do you keep yourself motivated & engaged?
My family keeps me motivated. My father’s a successful businessman, my mother is a successful home maker, my sister is successful surgeon and looking at all 3 all the time and their achievements keeps me motivated.
While I am at work I do not get a single minute of time to myself. Fortunately, my work keeps me engaged all the time
How do you maintain work/life balance?
I am not good at maintaining work/life balance. My work keeps me on toes all the time. I should be taking advice from someone on this topic
If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?
Mix your passion with practicality. It helps