In the bustling heart of Defence Colony, Delhi, where the sounds of the city blend seamlessly with the hum of everyday life, resides a beacon of inspiration for women across India. Vijay Laxmi, the founder of ‘DEFENCE-THE BEAUTY CLINIC’, has not only carved a niche in the world of beauty but has also emerged as a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and transformation.
Vijay Laxmi’s journey began nearly two decades ago, rooted in a passion for beauty and a vision to redefine standards in the industry. What started as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a celebrated enterprise, with her clinic becoming a sanctuary for those seeking not just aesthetic enhancement but a boost in confidence and self-worth. Through her unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, she has earned a place in the hearts of her clients and the wider community.
Her story is one of overcoming obstacles and breaking barriers. As a budding entrepreneur, Vijay Laxmi faced numerous challenges, from financial constraints to societal expectations. Yet, with a spirit that refused to be dampened, she forged ahead, transforming each setback into a stepping stone. Her clinic is more than just a beauty salon; it is a testament to her resilience and a beacon of hope for women aspiring to rise above their circumstances.
Vijay Laxmi’s influence extends beyond the realm of beauty. As a social activist, she has championed causes close to her heart, advocating for women’s rights and fostering a more inclusive society. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with numerous accolades, including the VG Mrs. India Gracious Award 2022, VG Mrs. Delhi Award, VG Iron Lady Award, Ravishing Skin Expert 2017, and iDiva Best Salon Award 2017. Each award is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the profound impact she has had on the lives of those around her.
Today, we delve into the life and experiences of Vijay Laxmi, exploring the many facets of her journey. From her early days as an aspiring entrepreneur to her current role as a celebrated beauty expert and social activist, her story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in oneself. Through her work, she continues to inspire and empower, proving that with determination and a heart full of dreams, anything is possible.
Interview
Sachin Chaturvedi: Vijay Laxmi, it’s an absolute pleasure to speak with you today. Your story is one that resonates deeply with many. To start, could you share a bit about your early life and what inspired you to venture into the beauty industry?
Vijay Laxmi: Thank you, Sachin. It’s wonderful to be here. My journey began in a small town where dreams often seemed distant. Growing up, I always had a fascination with beauty and the transformative power it holds. It wasn’t just about physical appearance; it was about how a little change could boost confidence and make someone feel empowered. This passion, combined with a desire to create something of my own, led me to the beauty industry.
Sachin Chaturvedi: That’s truly inspiring. Setting up a business is never easy, especially for women in a traditionally male dominated society. What were some of the challenges you faced in the initial years?
Vijay Laxmi: The challenges were numerous. Financial constraints, societal skepticism, and balancing personal life with professional aspirations were just a few. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but I always reminded myself of why I started. One of the most significant hurdles was gaining trust and building a clientele in a competitive market. It took a lot of hard work, dedication, and patience, but eventually, people started recognizing the quality and passion behind my work.
Sachin Chaturvedi: Your perseverance is commendable. As you gained recognition, you didn’t just stop at personal success. You extended your efforts towards social work. Can you elaborate on the initiatives you’ve been part of?
Vijay Laxmi: Absolutely. Success, to me, is meaningful only when shared. Over the years, I’ve been involved in various social programs aimed at empowering underprivileged women. We conduct workshops on beauty and self-care, provide training for those interested in the beauty industry, and offer support to women entrepreneurs. I believe that when women support each other, incredible things happen. By giving these women the skills and confidence they need, we help them create better lives for themselves and their families.
Sachin Chaturvedi: That’s incredible work. Speaking of support, you’ve been honored by several Bollywood celebrities and have won numerous awards. How does it feel to receive such recognition?
Vijay Laxmi: It’s truly humbling and gratifying. Recognition from such esteemed personalities and winning awards like the Ravishing Skin Expert 2017 and iDiva Best Salon Award 2017 were moments of pride. But more than the accolades, it’s the acknowledgment of our efforts to empower women that matters the most. Each award is a testament to the hard work of my entire team and the women who believed in our vision.
Sachin Chaturvedi: You’ve also won titles such as VG Mrs. India Gracious Award 2022, VG Mrs. Delhi Award 2022, VG Mrs. Iron Lady Award 2022. What do these titles mean to you on a personal level?
Vijay Laxmi: These titles are incredibly special to me. They represent not just personal achievement but the journey of every woman who has faced challenges and emerged stronger. VG Mrs. Iron Lady 2022, for instance, symbolizes strength, resilience, and the power to overcome adversity. These honors motivate me to continue my work and inspire other women to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.
Sachin Chaturvedi: Your journey is a testament to the potential within every woman. In your opinion, what are the key factors that can help in bridging the gap between legislation and actual implementation of women’s empowerment in India?
Vijay Laxmi: It starts with education and awareness. Laws are essential, but without awareness, they remain underutilized. Grassroots initiatives that educate women about their rights and provide them with the tools to assert these rights are crucial. Additionally, societal mindset shifts are imperative. We need to foster an environment where women are seen as equal contributors. Technology, too, plays a significant role. With access to information and financial services through mobile phones, women can become more self-reliant. Lastly, political empowerment through reservations in local governance ensures that women have a voice in decision making processes.
JMS: You mentioned technology as a key factor. How has technology impacted your work and the women you’ve helped empower?
Vijay Laxmi: Technology has been a game changer. For our salon, it has meant better access to the latest beauty trends, techniques, and training. For the women we support, it opens up a world of possibilities. From online marketing for their small businesses to accessing financial services and eLearning platforms, technology empowers them to be more independent and competitive. Social media, in particular, has given many a platform to showcase their talents and build their brands.
Sachin Chaturvedi: Vijay Laxmi, your initiative with ‘DEFENCE-THE BEAUTY CLINIC’ has inspired many women and girls towards empowerment. Can you share what initially motivated you to start this journey?
Vijay Laxmi: My journey began from a place of personal realization and a deep sense of responsibility. Growing up, I witnessed countless women around me, including my own mother, facing barriers simply because of their gender. I wanted to create a space where women could not only feel beautiful but also empowered. The idea was to offer a platform that supports their dreams and ambitions, whether through beauty services, career opportunities, or personal development workshops. This initiative was born from the belief that every woman has the potential to achieve great things if given the right support and encouragement.
Sachin Chaturvedi: You’ve mentioned that you are committed to providing education for girl children. How does your clinic contribute to this cause, and what impact have you seen so far?
Vijay Laxmi: Education is the cornerstone of empowerment. At ‘DEFENCE-THE BEAUTY CLINIC’, we have several programs aimed at supporting girl child education. We allocate a portion of our profits to fund scholarships for underprivileged girls. Additionally, we organize community outreach programs where we provide educational materials and resources to girls in need. The impact has been heartwarming; we’ve seen girls who once had no access to education now thriving in their studies, dreaming of becoming doctors, engineers, and leaders. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see these young minds blossom with the right support.
Sachin Chaturvedi: What advice would you give to women and girls who are struggling to find their path or are hesitant to pursue their dreams?
Vijay Laxmi: My advice to every woman and girl out there is to believe in yourself and your capabilities. The journey might be challenging, and you might face numerous obstacles, but your dreams are valid and worth pursuing. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you. Never underestimate the power of education and continuous learning. Most importantly, remember that empowerment begins within; once you believe in your potential, no one can stop you from achieving your dreams. We at ‘DEFENCE-THE BEAUTY CLINIC’ are here to support you every step of the way.
Sachin Chaturvedi: What advice would you give to young women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
Vijay Laxmi: Believe in yourself and your dreams, no matter how big or small they may seem. Hard work, dedication, and patience are your best allies. Don’t be afraid of failures; they are stepping stones to success. Surround yourself with positive influences and never hesitate to seek help or guidance. Most importantly, remember that you have the power to create change, not just in your life, but in the lives of others as well.
Sachin Chaturvedi: Wise words, Vijay Laxmi. Lastly, what are your future plans for ‘DEFENCETHE BEAUTY CLINIC’ and your social initiatives?
Vijay Laxmi: We are continuously striving to innovate and provide the best services in the beauty industry. Expanding our reach and opening more branches is on the horizon. As for our social initiatives, we plan to broaden our training programs and collaborate with more organizations to support women entrepreneurs. The goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where women can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth.
Conclusion: Vijay Laxmi’s journey is a shining example of how determination, hard work, and a compassionate heart can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her story is not just about personal success but about the ripple effect of empowerment. As India continues its journey towards gender equality, it is pioneers like Vijay Laxmi who illuminate the path, proving that empowered women are indeed the cornerstone of a prosperous and harmonious society.
Sachin Chaturvedi: Thank you, Vijay Laxmi, for sharing your incredible story with us. Your journey and insights are truly inspiring.
Vijay Laxmi: Thank you, Sachin. It was a pleasure sharing my story. I hope it encourages more women to pursue their dreams and create their own paths to success.