We were lucky to catch up with Bhakti Bahadkar recently and have shared our conversation below.

Bhakti, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally was a moment I’ll never forget—it started with a single cake, but quickly became so much more.

Back in 2015, fresh out of my bachelor’s in Bioinformatics in India, I was fascinated by the world of data. I dove into my career as a clinical research data analyst, loving the challenge of precision and the satisfaction of finding patterns in chaos. But as much as I thrived on logic and numbers, there was a part of me that longed for color, texture, and creativity.

Baking began as my secret escape. After long hours in front of a computer, I’d find myself in the kitchen, kneading dough and swirling vibrant colors into icing. It was my therapy—a way to unwind and express myself. One day, a close friend asked if I could make a cake for her birthday. I poured my heart into that cake, hand-painting whimsical designs and sculpting fondant flowers late into the night. When I finally presented it, the look on her face was pure magic. Her eyes lit up, and everyone at the party gathered around, admiring every detail. In that moment, I realized this was more than just dessert—it was edible art, and it brought people together in a way I’d never experienced before.

Then came 2020, and the world turned upside down. The COVID lockdowns meant working from home, and suddenly, all the bakeries in town were closed. Friends and family started calling me, desperate for a special cake to brighten up their celebrations at home. My kitchen became my studio, and each cake was a new adventure—sometimes a challenge, always a joy. It was during one of those late-night baking sessions, flour dusting the air and music playing softly, that a friend suggested, “Why don’t you start your own cloud kitchen?”

That idea sparked something in me. What began as a creative escape had become a lifeline for others—and a new chapter for me. I realized I could blend my love for science and my passion for art, turning my small kitchen into a place where stories, memories, and flavors came together. That’s when I truly knew: this creative path was no longer just a hobby. It was my calling.

Bhakti, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Bhakti, a Clinical Data Manager by profession and a passionate home baker and content creator. My journey combines structure, creativity, and a love for learning—all of which fuel different parts of who I am.

Academically, I hold a Master’s degree in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s in Bioinformatics. My career path led me into the field of clinical research, where I currently work as a Clinical Data Manager, contributing to oncology studies. I love being part of work that plays a role in advancing treatments and improving lives.

Outside of work, baking has become a huge part of my identity. What started as a hobby quickly became my way to unwind, express creativity, and spread joy. I love experimenting with cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and desserts that not only taste good but also tell a story. Baking is my therapy, and I enjoy sharing my creations with friends, family, and sometimes my online audience.

I also create content around baking tutorials, Excel tips, and everyday productivity—mostly on Instagram and YouTube. I enjoy making videos that are helpful, visually engaging, and easy for anyone to follow. Whether someone is trying a new recipe or learning a quick Excel formula, I love being able to offer something that makes their day a little easier or more fun.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Absolutely. In early 2020, I had just left my full-time job in India to pursue my higher studies in the U.S. I was all set to fly out in the summer, but then the pandemic hit. With international travel halted and everything thrown into uncertainty, my university shifted to remote classes for the first semester. It was a difficult time—my plans were suddenly on hold, and like many others, I found myself stuck in limbo.

Instead of seeing it as wasted time, I chose to make the most of the moment. With bakeries and dessert shops closed, a few friends asked me to bake for them—and that one request turned into many. That’s when I started a small home-based baking business in India. I began taking orders for cakes, cupcakes, and desserts, and it quickly grew through word of mouth. I learned about running a business, handling customer expectations, and managing time alongside my remote coursework.

Looking back, I’m proud of how I turned a period of uncertainty into something meaningful. It reminded me that resilience isn’t just about enduring challenges—it’s about adapting, staying open to new opportunities, and letting creativity lead the way.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes—my creative journey is driven by the simple but powerful desire to bring joy, comfort, and connection through food and everyday inspiration. Even though I currently have swallowing difficulties due to my past cancer history and rely on a feeding tube, I continue to find immense happiness in cooking and baking for others. It’s my way of expressing love, creativity, and resilience.

Food has always been a source of healing and joy for me—not just in eating it, but in preparing it for the people I care about. Baking, in particular, gives me purpose. The aroma of a cake in the oven, the joy on someone’s face when they receive a treat, and the act of creating something beautiful with my hands—it all fills me with a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Beyond baking, I also share content online—tutorials, tips, and insights from my professional and personal life. My goal is to be a source of light and encouragement for others, especially those who might be going through challenges of their own. I want people to see that creativity and joy are still possible, even when life takes unexpected turns.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @bhakti_bahadkar
• Facebook: Bhakti Bahadkar
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhakti-bahadkar/