Baking Dreams: Fatema Barodawala's Journey from Adversity to Sweet Success

11 May 2024

Fatema Barodawala's story is not just about cakes; it's a testament to resilience and determination. Starting her baking venture, Cakelicious, from her home kitchen in Kolkata, she dreamed big. And big she achieved, catching the eye of investors on Shark Tank India Season 2, securing Rs 25 lakh funding from Amit Jain, the CEO of CarDekho, for a 20% stake in her brand.

But Fatema's journey transcends business success. Amidst the trials of entrepreneurship, she faced her darkest hour during the COVID-19 lockdown. Pregnant and trapped in an abusive marriage, she found herself in a perilous situation. Her husband's violence threatened not just her own life but also that of her unborn child.

In a remarkable display of courage and resourcefulness, Fatema escaped with the help of her parents, her gynecologist, and local authorities. Fleeing to the safety of her childhood home in Kolkata, she sought solace in her lifelong passion for baking.

Joined by her mother, Duriya, Fatema transformed her love for baking into a thriving business, Cakelicious. From the depths of adversity rose a tale of triumph, as Fatema turned her passion into a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.

Fatema’s mantra - “You have the power to rewrite your story, don’t ever give up on yourself.”