Sobha Viswanath, an Indian social entrepreneur, artist, designer, and activist, has made significant contributions in various fields.
Early Life and Education:
- Sobha was born on August 10, 1985, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
- She attended Holy Angels’ Convent Higher Secondary School and later pursued her Bachelor’s degree at All Saints’ College in Thiruvananthapuram.
- Sobha continued her education at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, where she earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with dual specializations in Marketing and Human Resources.
Career Highlights:
- Weavers Village: In 2012, Sobha founded Weavers Village, a celebrated clothing store in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Her brainchild aims to uplift the local weaving community and preserve India’s rich handloom heritage.
- Bhoomika Initiative: Sobha initiated the “Bhoomika” fundraising campaign in 2019 to support those affected by the 2019 Kerala floods. The campaign involved creating dolls made from handloom and textile waste, providing employment opportunities for women from NGOs, including those with physical and mental disabilities.
Personal Insights:
- Marital Journey: Sobha was married to Ashwin Rajendran, but their marriage faced challenges due to Ashwin’s abusiveness, leading to their separation.
- Tattoos and Piercings: Sobha has several tattoos, including a pair of paws, an ‘Amma and Trishul,’ and symbols like Lotus, Om, and Rudraksha. She also has six piercings on her left ear.
- Controversy and Resilience: In 2021, Sobha faced legal trouble when the Narcotics Control Bureau apprehended her for possessing ganja in her clothing store. The incident was orchestrated by a stalker as revenge after Sobha declined his marriage proposal. She sought assistance from authorities, and the truth came to light.
Sobha Viswanath’s commitment to traditional textiles, social causes, and empowerment continues to inspire many.