As a pastry chef what does Valentine’s Day mean to you?

Valentine's day for me is a lot of orders, My docket for Valentine's day is full. People like ordering customised cupcakes and other assorted pastries around Valentine's day. I guess dessert is truly the fastest and yummiest way to someone's heart.

What is the most ordered dessert on this day of love?

A customised 6 piece cupcake box, where the cupcakes create a small love story. We also have assorted brownie packs and a cupcake bouquet which is popular.

Do you think chocolate is an aphrodisiac?

Honestly, I don't believe Valentine's day should be the only day to show love for someone. Whether chocolate helps with the process, I'm unsure. However pure chocolate does cause a chemical reaction, which could possibly be mistaken as an aphrodisiac.

Where did you grow up?

I'm a home grown Bangalore girl right from Victoria Layout.

What led you to becoming a chef?

Post graduation, I took up baking and did a lot of charity work for Little Sister of the poor- Home of the Aged. And seeing the joy that my creations bring on their faces led me to start teaching baking for the under privileged. My grandmother also played an active role in guiding and moulding me into the baker I am today. I realised baking is not just about doing what I love but bringing other people happiness too, through my cakes. Not every profession gives you that.

How long have you been a chef?

Since May, 2015. Touching two years now.

What do you enjoy more? Cooking or creating?

As a baker, my strongest tool is my imagination. I sit down with my customers and get an idea of what they are looking for and they usually let me work my mind to create something wonderful for them. Leaving certain signature orders, it is rare that anything is repeated. I do the entire order from start to finish and have not really thought about getting on any extra help as I'm very picky with my work.

What dish do you like eating the most?

Chocolate! Anytime, any day, any mood.

What’s your least favourite dish?

I'm not a meat eater. I guess I began moving away from meat a while back and prefer being vegetarian.

How long have you lived in Bangalore?

All my life.

Do you like it here?

For both business and as a professional life, I love it here. I've spent time as a baker in Mumbai for my internship, and Bangalore is any day better. And for Sugar Therapy the response I've received in terms of business and the orders I get has been nothing short of fabulous.