Anju Desai

Life in Creations

Exploring the Creative World of Anju Desai

From the vibrant streets of India to the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, Anju Desai’s life has been a whirlwind of art, culture, and entrepreneurship. Anju’s inspirational journey shows the power of passion, determination, and embracing change.

*The Early Years* 

From the tender age of 4, Anju took her first steps onto the stage, where she discovered her love for dance, acting, and singing. With ongoing, loving support from her family, she performed at various festivals and school gatherings in India. She also showcased her flair for art, winning numerous awards at school and even hosting several paintings exhibitions as a young artist.

*A Naturel Artist and Performer*

As a teenager, she ventured into Marathi theatre, where her passion for stage performances was appreciated and rewarded. Anju’s vocal talents also found expression as she worked as an orchestra singer. A local radio station became her first employer at age 14. 

*Advocate for Women’s Empowerment*

Anju’s passion for women’s freedom and safety led her to become a guest speaker at the age of 18. She organised a women-led expo. A platform for crafters and creators in her community. Her commitment to empowering women has been a driving force throughout her life.

*From Motherhood to Businesshood at 18*

Anju’s entrepreneurial spirit awakens at a young age. At just 18, while being a dedicated mother, she started her own business, Nikhil Creations, specialising in printing and graphic design. less than six months in the business, it expanded and continued to thrive for 10 years.

*Landed in the county of long white clouds*

Anju’s life journey took an exceptional turn when she arrived in New Zealand 24 years ago. Her creative spirit was enlightened with natural beauty, and she found warmth in the hearts of the humble Kiwi people. Her talents got the attention as she connected with the locals. The Kiwi community embraced her with open arms, offering opportunities for diverse activities, from painting classes to cooking demonstrations and holistic wellness workshops. Anju soon became a guest speaker at various events, sharing insights on life, journey, inspiration, creativity, and the philosophy of living.

*Bringing Bollywood to New Zealand*

With a deep desire to share the joy of Bollywood and Indian culture with the nurturing land of New Zealand, she founded “Bollywood Party in New Zealand” in 2009 with a sweet accident. Here is the story of how the Bollywood party began

*Surprising and Fulfilling Recognitions*

Anju was featured in an editorial in “NZ Herald”, while local papers praised her art exhibitions. Also, her story was featured in an article in New Zealand Geographic, highlighting her ways of binding both cultures together. More media recognitions are in the below segment. 

Anju’s journey continued and she had the opportunity to have an appearance on various television networks, including TVNZ, Maori TV, Te Reo channel, and a TV 2, where she was interviewed and showcased her business. 

By 2010, Anju was travelling with her team throughout the country to host Bollywood parties. In 2019, she achieved a significant milestone with an international event for the Hewlett-Packard (HP) product launch in Queenstown.

*Bollywood Costume Hire: A Dream Come True*

Anju’s dream of Bollywood costume hire has become a reality, offering Kiwis the chance to step into the vibrant world of Bollywood stars. The costumes have won international and national awards and countless clients. Explore the colourful selection at www.bollywoodcostumehire.co.nz 

*Anju’s Culinary Expertise*

Anju’s culinary journey began at the age of 10 when her mother gave her the responsibility of cooking, and exploring traditional recipes. Her fascination with spices, health, and well-being became integral to her lifestyle.  She profoundly understands the benefits of spices, Ayurveda, and holistic living.

Today, Anju brings her wealth of expertise to her cooking demonstrations, and speeches. Her friendly demeanour, knowledge, and storytelling skills have made her an inspirational speaker at various events. Her new brand Anjus Holistic Kitchen Products can be found here – Spice

*A Passion for Marketing*

With skills as a graphic and web designer, Anju’s passion for marketing has always been noticeable. She began her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 18. During the pandemic, she restarted her journey with a new company called “Creative Marketing Solutions” to help support local businesses   

*Inspiration and Encouragement*

Anju’s inspiring journey from a small town in India to becoming a successful business owner in New Zealand serves as a hope for others. Her mantra of “no complaints, no blaming, no judgment” has not only guided her through life’s challenges but also given her the focus she needed to pursue her dreams.

*A Message of Resilience*

Anju’s life story shows resilience and adaptability. Her experiences remind us that life’s unexpected twists can lead to extraordinary adventures.

In her own words, “A smile, warmth, and kindness do not cost us anything. Surround yourself with wonderful energy and embrace gratitude. Keep your eyes on the goal and step ahead with trust”

Let Anju’s story inspire you to chase your dreams and create a future filled with passion and purpose.

Talk to Anju today!!!

A journey in Creation...

Early Achievements

A performer: Anju’s journey in the world of performance began at the age of 4 when she took the stage to perform Bollywood dance. Her talent has gained numerous awards and recognitions since. 

School Artistic Journey: From age 11, Anju was a part of art competitions all around the state, earning multiple awards and shields. She organised school activity days and frequently took the stage, either as a singer or dancer. 

Acting with Theatre Group ‘Pancham’: At age 14, Anju was founded by a local theatre group called ‘Pancham’ where her acting ability had a chance to thrive for 5 years. She won a few acting awards, including two at state competitions for comedy and an award for women’s empowering short plays.

Musical Journey: Anju’s singing journey began during her school days and continued with Pancham’s musical orchestra. In her school days, she also sang for local radio stations and started hosting radio shows.

Entrepreneurship: In 1992, after completing her art studies, Anju founded “Nikhil Creation,” a printing and design business that served thousands of customers. Alongside she organised large-scale art, and design markets, to empower women. She was a guest speaker for the Women Trust in India at just 19 years old.

Exhibitions: Anju’s passion for art was evident from her school days, where she regularly presented art exhibitions. More about her art journey here – Creative Soul by Anju. 

Art Classes: Anju began teaching art at a young age to kids in her hometown. She also taught fabric painting, crafts, print-making, and so on. In New Zealand, she started art classes in 2003. Auckland opened up new doors to community classes. Teaching in different locations gained her vast experience and clientele.  

Raindrop Art Studio:  There were changes in community classes that led her to open her own art studio. Here, she continued teaching classes, presenting exhibitions, and working on commission jobs until her Bollywood Party business took off in 2009. 

Step Forward in New Zealand

Bollywood Party and Bollywood Costume Hire: Established on 5 July 2009. Read more about our story.

TV Shows: Featured on TV1, TV3, and Māori TV to showcase her culture, business, and love for New Zealand.

Media Recognitions: For her art exhibitions in 2012 in local newspapers, about dancing in the New Zealand Herald, and the New Zealand Geographical magazine article. In 2017 Business association promoted our studio – Anju’s Cultural Studio.  In 2023 she was interviewed for her costume hire studio – Visiting Colourful Studio. In 2024 an Indian Weekender article about the World of Culture activities. In May 2024, Anju was interviewed about her journey with the Bollywood Costume Hire Studio in a feature titled “Saris, Sequins, and Spices.” 

Guest Speaker: Delivered speeches on various topics, including her life journey, Indian spices, Ayurvedic medicine, goal achievement, and creation. Presented her story at the HER Festival in 2023. In 2024 she organised a women’s forum interviewing 6 women from different paths of life. 

World Of Culture NZ: In 2022, organised online interviews featuring 10 women who have made a difference. In 2023, hosted a full-day workshop from teachers from different ethnicities. Authentic Indian food stalls, Indian cooking demonstrations, and interactive healing species workshops. In 2024 a great successful event World cultural fashion show, The Women Fourm – a story of migration, a multicultural art showcase called Unity in Diversity along with a few other events. 

Diwali: Anju’s studio students performed at the city’s Diwali celebrations from 2014 to 2019. Provided lavish costumes and jewellery to students from the Bollywood costume hire studio.

Corporate Diwali: Hosted Diwali events for companies like Spark NZ, AUT, and more, including speeches, dance performances, Diwali catering, workshops, and extravagant Diwali decor.

Community Diwali: Actively involved in Diwali celebrations for schools, retirement villages, and libraries offering various activities.

City Council Diwali: In 2022, represented Diwali with Auckland Council, organising a Bollywood party with Shortland Street stars, followed by a “Taste of India” a grand successful event.

Corporate Bollywood Party: Started in 2009, with many notable events along with a grand Bollywood party for Cyclone Wellington/Auckland in 2022.

Award Show: Established Bollywood Party company awards from 2011 to 2021 to appreciate her team, including a kindness award in her father’s name, with a memorable night to celebrate with her team. 

Continuing the Journey…

Motherhood

A beautiful beginning of a forever bond, nurturing love, and endless joy.

An Artist at Heart

Lake Tekapo - Art gear in the backpack to recreate this heavenly beauty.

Passion for Dance

Photo for the article in NZ Geographic Magazine. Music and dance in the blood.

Landed in Aotearoa

Those blues and greens of the long white cloud country took Anju's breath away.

Bollywood Party was born!

A glamorous turn in life with Bollywood Party in NZ, established in 2009.

Love for culture

Events, parties, culinary exploration, love for culture, and people of New Zealand.

Marketing Guru

Helping the community to achieve their dream jobs. Mentoring with a touch of creativity.

Travel in mind!

Exploring the land, connecting with people, and admiring with an abundance of gratitude.

Inspiring Story!

Inspiring women to live life fully and take a leap of faith. Life as we create it.

About Us

Bringing Bollywood Parties to your Doorstep

Experience being in India for the day with our Bollywood party in New Zealand. We have proudly shared the lively and joyful Indian culture with Kiwis since 2009. Under the visionary leadership of Creative Director Anju Desai, our team specialises in crafting tailor-made events blending tradition, vibrancy, and modern flair. From your party invite and costume hire, delicious food, photo booth, and entertainment to the souvenirs, we have all of it covered. Join us in the vibrant spirit of Bollywood and create enchanting moments. Get to know us… 

Questions?

Whether you have questions about our services, want to know more, or need assistance with anything, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!