Kajal Gaitonde’s journey is a story of passion, persistence, and the transformative power of art. Her path wasn’t a straight line, but one filled with dedication to her craft and a deep-rooted belief in the creative potential within everyone.

Humble Beginnings with Big Dreams

Kajal’s love for art started as a young girl in India. Raised in a family that appreciated the arts but didn’t necessarily see it as a career, Kajal had to carve her own path. She knew early on that her life’s calling was beyond traditional professions. It was the vibrant colors on her canvas and the feeling of clay in her hands that brought her true joy.

Determined to pursue this dream, her mom enrolled her in Sir. J.J. School of Art, Mumbai. There, she began honing her skills and shaping her unique artistic vision. But it was more than just mastering techniques—Kajal believed that art should reflect life, emotions, and human connections. This ethos guided her throughout her career.

A Moment of Recognition: From Student to Educator

In 2004, when Mrs. Madhuri Naik, Dean of Sophia’s, recognized her unique approach and innovation in art, Kajal knew she was on the right path. The honorable mention from Raheja School further fueled her desire to do more—not just as an artist, but as an educator for History of Art. Kajal’s passion was not just to create, but to inspire others to discover their own creative potential.

This drive took her to NIFT, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, where her impact as a tutor went beyond the classroom. Her Fashion Tech students, so moved by her unique teaching style, followed her to the Registrar’s moments like these that reassured her that art education was her true calling.