Casero’s Story: Heart You Put Into Your Work Is Community You Build

What sparked the idea of combining dips and crisps as a way to bring people together in Indian households?

After I got married, we had a lot of guests over at my in-laws’ place — family lunches, tea-time visits, festival gatherings. I realised how much time went into plating everything beautifully, then cleaning up and putting it all away. With Casero’s dips in glass jars, you can still have something that looks elegant on the table, but with zero fuss. Just pop open a jar, place our chips next to it, and you’re ready to serve — leaving more time to actually enjoy the company.

How did your Marwadi upbringing influence your approach to food and entrepreneurship?

My Marwadi upbringing taught me that food is about generosity and care — and my biggest influence was my mom. She was an incredible cook, but unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to learn much from her while she was still around. Somehow, I find myself recreating some of her recipes — it feels like a gift from her from heaven. I think I caught the taste and heart of her cooking just by being around her. She loved sending food to family and friends in tiffins, and even during her sick days, she made sure we were well fed. That sense of warmth, abundance, and thoughtfulness is what I carry into Casero.

What's the most memorable feedback you have received from customers about Casero's impact on their gatherings or daily lives?

At my very first pop-up, a young woman tried our marinara dip with focaccia bread and instantly fell in love with it. She kept coming back for seconds, each time with this sparkle in her eyes that I’ll never forget. Later, she made sure to place an order with us — and when I saw that same excitement in her messages, I realised this is why I do what I do. In that moment, all the sleepless prep nights and the stress melted away. It felt like the universe telling me, “See? It’s worth it.”

Can you share a personal story about a time when food brought your family or friends closer together?

When I think of food bringing people together, I think of my mom. She had this habit of sending home-cooked meals to family and friends — even when she wasn’t well, she’d make sure the food was cooked perfectly and served with love. I remember how everyone looked forward to her tiffins, and the joy they brought to people’s faces. Growing up, food was so central in our home that each time I thought about marrying someone, the first image in my head would be of him sitting with my family at the table, enjoying a meal together. That’s how important food is in our house — it’s not just a part of daily life, it’s the heart of our relationships. That same spirit is what I carry into Casero.

How do you think Casero's model of easy-to-serve dips and crisps will change the dynamics of social gatherings in Indian homes?

I think of all the women — and men too — who end up carrying the full load of hosting. The planning, the cooking, the plating, the constant getting up from the table. Casero was created to take that weight off. Our grazing tables let you host with a menu of your choice, while actually being present with your guests. No endless kitchen runs, no juggling ten dishes. Just beautiful spreads, conversations, and the kind of memories you can only make when you’re truly at the table.

What inspired you to create a brand that's inclusive and invites everyone to participate in cooking and hosting?

That same experience of hosting made me want to create something that removes the intimidation and effort from serving. I wanted products that even someone who’s never cooked could confidently put out for guests, while still feeling proud of the presentation. Casero’s dips and crisps do exactly that — they’re pretty enough for any table, delicious for all tastes, and easy enough for everyone to join in the joy of hosting.

How do you balance your passion for food and entrepreneurship with your personal life and ambitions?

Some days, I miss out on important family events because festivities often mean a surge of orders in the kitchen. It’s not easy, but it’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make so that one day I can look back and know it was all worth it. Of course, none of this would be possible without the push and support of my husband, Tarang. My parents, his parents, and our siblings are constants in this journey too — so many recipes, ideas, and bits of advice come straight from my family. Casero might be my dream, but it’s built on the love and strength of all of them.

What's the most important lesson you've learned about building a brand and community around Casero so far?

Nothing about this journey has been easy — and I wouldn’t want it to be. Every challenge has reminded me that if you want something deeply, you have to show up for it with everything you have. I’ve had moments where I felt tested, but I keep telling myself, “If you want Casero to grow big, you need to grow stronger.” And with each hurdle, that belief only gets firmer. The heart you put into your work is the community you build around it.