Today on the blog, we feature Radhika Ravindran, Plant Lover, Holistic Health Practitioner, Herb Crafter and Founder of MaLola- Nature Nurtures, based in Bangalore.

Why did you become a maker?  Why is making so important to you?   

As a family we have been practicing Holistic Living for almost three decades. The quest for a Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability( LOHAS) led us to growing plants and finding ways and means to avoid processed products. An Army wife, I was lucky to travel across the country and discover firsthand the incredible plant wealth that we have in India.
Sustainability by definition needs that we are live within the means of our natural resources. My interest is in making high quality products using maximum local ingredients. This reduces Carbon footprint, maintains quality and accountability.

In today’s scenario, “Natural” is a buzzword having no “real” definition in the world of food and personal care. Having knowledge and control over what we eat and use as bodycare is key to a healthy existence. That is why I keep doing what I am passionate about. It’s more a living, “green” ecological initiative.

How did you begin MaLola?

Having two beautiful daughters, their requirement for interesting looking and smelling skincare led us to experiment with advanced techniques of creating skincare. 
Thus started the journey of MaLola.   

What is the story behind your brand name ?

Years ago I came across a beautiful rock carving thousands of years old. It was Varāha an avatar of Vishnu in the form of a boar rescuing Goddess Earth. She was depicted as a beautiful lady with long hair, wet due to almost drowning.  This inspired the need to find a name denoting a soft path to preserve nature.

A few years ago, on almost completing a pilgrimage of the 108 Temples of Vishnu as praised by the Alwars, we went to Ahobilam in Andhra Pradesh. Lord Narasimha ,in the form of Malolan, was resting with Mother on his lap. MaLola – Beloved of the Mother was the name that struck a chord in me.

Whats in a Name?? MaLola
Ma- Maa, Màna, Mat’, Madre ,Mamá, Ahm, Mzaa. Mother in any language refers to the one who created us.

The beautiful Atharva Veda (considered the oldest literary monument of Indian medicine) hymn “Prithvi Sukta” praises Mother Earth.

A small translated excerpt:
‘XII, 1. 17. Upon the firm, broad earth, the all-begetting mother of the plants, that is supported by (divine) law, upon her, propitious and kind, may we ever pass-our lives!’

Lola- Beloved. Here referring to the treasures of planet earth. Tread gently on dearly loved nature.

How has your business evolved over the years?    

I would say that I have evolved, rather than my business! Seeking to understand Nature is a never ending quest. As a race our view that humans are the only, or primary, holders of any standing is what has led to the blatant exploitation of Nature.

The more I learn, the less I use.

So, in my business of skincare, passing years has made me design minimalistic products.

Your work space. 

I need a space with kitchen-like facilities. Running water, sometimes a light point, a few vessels. My garden provides a lot of raw materials which need jars and bottles to store. On my husband’s retirement, I started serious retailing and have an independent room.

Your favorite work tool.

I like tiny steel whisks. 

What is currently on your work table?

Fresh apricot seed oil soon to be converted into a luscious skincare product. 

What is your personal favorite pick from MaLola right now? And why?

I’m going to say that a pressed serum with CO2 (Carbondioxide) extracts of Sandalwood and Turmeric is my current favourite.  That’s because Sandalwood has a fragrance that transports us to a different world. Of course, the product is amazing too.

What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart.

I will be displaying a range of skincare products suitable for all skin types.

Meet the Maker @
27th edition:  By Hand From The Heart Makers Market
2 – 3 – August 2019 , Friday – Saturday | 10 a.m – 9 p.m
Hanu Reddy Residences, No. 41/19, Poes Garden, Chennai 600086, India.

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