Surat, August 3 – Hard work, confidence, and strong determination can turn any challenge into an opportunity. The story of Navin Sharma, a resident of the Mini Bazar area in Surat's Varachha locality, is a shining example of this belief. Originally from Nepal, Navin came to Surat in 1997 and gradually established himself as a successful businessman and a dedicated social worker through relentless efforts.

He began his journey working at JD Restaurant in Mini Bazar for about six months. After parting ways with the management, he took up a job at a hotel near Surat Railway Station. Simultaneously, he continued pursuing his childhood passion—karate.

Navin began practicing karate in 1995 and earned his black belt in 1998. Today, he holds a 5th-degree black belt and is an active karate official in Gujarat State. He has been certified by several prestigious organizations including Ashiara International, Sitori, and Husukunfu, and holds diplomas in both karate and kickboxing. He has also received a karate degree from Daadi Balsara.

In 2000, alongside his martial arts career, Navin launched his first fast-food stall named ‘New Pashupatinath Restaurant’ near Sai Baba Temple in Parvat Patia. Thanks to his quality food and consistent taste, the stall gained popularity, encouraging him to expand his business to four more outlets across the city—Three Rasta Garden, Bhavani Gate (Nine Gate), Model Town near Manasrovar Gate, and Super Cinema area in Neminath Society. Today, ‘New Pashupatinath Restaurant’ is a well-known name in Surat, offering Punjabi, Chinese, South Indian, and fast food.

He also provides catering services under the name ‘New Pashupatinath Restaurant Caterers’ for weddings and special events. Through his business ventures, Navin has generated employment for over 70 people.

Apart from business, Navin continues to teach self-defense through karate classes in different parts of Surat, empowering the youth and contributing to community welfare. He is actively involved in social service and is always ready to support those in need.

Navin now lives a happy family life with his wife and five children—four daughters and one son—all of whom are pursuing education. He attributes his success to the constant support and guidance of his elder brother Prem Sharma and NCP leader Narayan Bhai Gadera.

Navin Sharma’s journey from hardship to success is a powerful testimony to the fact that with the right mindset and direction, one can rise from nothing to great heights.

Surat – “If you don't get a job, start any small work. Self-reliance brings dignity and respect.” These words from Baijnath Maurya, a resident of Jungle Kala (Kharkwa), Baghauli village in Sant Ravidas Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh, echo the story of a man who turned his life around through sheer determination, honesty, and hard work.

In 1992, Baijnath arrived in Surat seeking a better life, without experience or resources. A kind individual sheltered him for 15 days but advised him to return home when he couldn’t find work. Refusing to give up, Baijnath resolved to stay in Surat and script his own destiny.

One day, he approached a shop named "Bhavna Electronics" and asked for work. Impressed by his sincerity and eagerness to learn, the owner hired him at a salary of ₹800 per month. Over the next eight years, Baijnath earned both experience and trust, eventually increasing his salary to ₹3,500.

With confidence in his skills, he started his own electronics repair shop, "Bhavani Electronics," near Piyush Point Chowk at Karmyogi-1 Society in Udhna-Pandesara. He also pursued a diploma in electronics. Today, he is an expert in repairing modern devices like LCD and LED TVs, offering quality service to a growing customer base.

Baijnath’s personal life is equally balanced. He lives with his wife, son, and daughter, both of whom are now married. His son, after completing a B.Tech degree, was dissatisfied with his job. Baijnath encouraged him to start a small business, guiding him on the path of self-employment. Now, his son manages a shop and also works part-time.

Baijnath firmly believes that “Struggle is the key to success. A person who updates himself with time can grow in any field.” His life stands as a living example of the adage, “Those who try never fail.”

Surat: Life presents many crossroads—some that break a person, and some that shape them. Anjali Joshi from Surat is among those women who faced every hardship with courage and emerged as a successful entrepreneur, a devoted mother, and a committed social worker.

Originally from Kerala, Anjali was born and raised in Mumbai, Maharashtra, as the only child of her parents. Her childhood was filled with love and affection until tragedy struck when she lost her father at the tender age of 12. Her mother raised her single-handedly, becoming her pillar of strength.

Despite financial and emotional struggles, Anjali completed her 10th-grade education while working part-time at a life insurance company due to her mother’s ailing health. She also managed to complete her 12th standard during this period and later launched her own clothing business, which she ran successfully for 10 years.

Unfortunately, her mother’s health deteriorated further and she eventually passed away. Anjali shares, “I had always imagined spending a long life with my mother, but that dream remained unfulfilled. Yet, I understand that birth and death are inevitable truths of life.”

After her mother’s demise, Anjali got married and in 2013 moved to Surat with her family. Here, she expanded her textile business and today runs a flourishing imported fabric enterprise. She also ventured into other businesses including a café, floral arrangements, fruit and gift items, showcasing her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit.

Her hard work did not go unnoticed. In 2018, she received the “Most Promising Entrepreneur” award from FM Radio and in 2019 was honored with the “Youth Icon” award.

Life threw another challenge her way when she lost her husband. From 2021 to 2023, she withdrew from business and focused solely on raising her three children. But with unwavering determination, Anjali has now re-entered the business world and is once again steering her life with optimism.

Alongside her business, Anjali is also actively involved in social work. She regularly helps underprivileged children, mentors them, and is often invited as a judge at social and community events.

She believes, “When faced with a life-shattering event, women must not break down. Instead, they should stand strong for their children and start afresh with courage and resilience.”

Anjali Joshi’s story is a beacon of inspiration for today’s women, proving that with strength and perseverance, no challenge is insurmountable.

Surat – In the bustling city of Surat, Sainath Paratha has carved a unique identity with its delectable Punjabi parathas, pav bhaji, and pulao. What began as a humble food stall in 2006 has now grown into a recognized name in the local food circuit, thanks to the vision of founder Arvindbhai Solanki and the dedication of his son, Bhargav Arvindbhai Solanki, who now manages the operations.

The first outlet was established near the BB Club, adjacent to Croma and opposite the Signature Building in Piplod. Today, Sainath Paratha runs three thriving branches across the city — all retaining the same brand identity. The third and latest outlet is located at Atlanta Shopping Center, VIP Road, in the Happy Street Food Court (Shop No. 5).

Speaking to Loktej, Bhargav Solanki shared that he completed education up to the 12th standard. He initially worked at a provision store for two years before joining his father in the food business. “The business built by my father through sheer hard work is our responsibility to carry forward with equal commitment,” he stated.

The Solanki family has been residing in Surat since the year 2000. The household comprises his parents, both sons, and a younger brother who is currently pursuing his education.

Bhargav proudly mentioned that Sainath Paratha now provides employment to seven individuals, helping them support their families. “This is not just a food business; it’s a source of livelihood for multiple families,” he said.

In a message aimed at inspiring the youth, Bhargav emphasized the value of initiative and integrity. “Whatever job you get, do it with honesty. And if no job is available, start your own small business. Don’t waste time waiting for opportunities to knock — create your own.”

Sainath Paratha stands today not only as a symbol of taste and quality but also as an inspiring example of how consistent effort and family values can turn a small idea into a sustainable enterprise.