Dubai-based homemaker Savita Mundra’s love for cooking brings MayaMani to Life
Written by Bidipta Das
For the past two years, Dubai’s culinary landscape has been enriched by a new gem: MayaMani located in Al Qusais. At the heart of this rising star is Savita Mundra, whose inspiring journey from being a home cook to running her restaurant is both inspiring and heartfelt.
The Seed of Passion
Savita Mundra’s love for cooking evolved organically. Unlike many who have a lifelong dream, Savita’s culinary journey began with simple joy. Cooking for her family and friends quickly turned into something special as her dishes garnered praise from all corners.
The pandemic while challenging for many, became a turning point for Savita. As lives were upended, the encouragement from those who had enjoyed her cooking grew louder. “You should start something of your own,” they suggested, recognizing the remarkable quality of her home-cooked meals. Their words resonated deeply, fueling Savita’s decision to turn her passion into a profession.
The Leap of Faith
Amidst global uncertainty, Savita made a bold move. With unwavering support from her family, she launched MayaMani in 2022. Transforming a beloved pastime into a thriving restaurant was no easy feat. The early days were marked by numerous challenges, from establishing a new business in Dubai’s competitive market to navigating the complexities of restaurant operations. Yet, Savita’s resilience and dedication began to pay off with MayaMani gradually winning the hearts of local patrons.
A cornerstone of Savita’s success has been her husband, Pawan Mundra. Beyond his role as a Chartered Accountant, Pawan’s unwavering support and belief in Savita’s vision have been the bedrock of MayaMani. More than just his professional skills, it’s Pawan’s deep-seated belief in Savita’s vision that has made all the difference. Savita is a dedicated mother of two supportive children (a son and a daughter) finds joy in their constant help as they work together to create MayaMani. Her brother-in-law also plays a pivotal role, always stepping up to support the restaurant’s success. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s heartwarming to witness a loving family unite to offer an even more cherished experience for everyone through Maya Mani. It’s their shared dreams and mutual support that truly drive the restaurant forward.
Crafting an Experience
MayaMani is more than just a dining spot; it’s a heartfelt experience meticulously crafted by Savita. Each dish on the menu is a testament to her deep-seated passion for authentic cuisine. “Our food is freshly cooked and feels like home,” she shares, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to serving wholesome, delicious meals without the heaviness of oil-laden dishes.
MayaMani is a culinary haven where a variety of flavours come to life. From the comforting Dal Baati Churma to the sweet Moong Dal Halwa, the menu showcases beloved South Indian specialities, tantalising tandoor dishes, and Jain options. A standout feature is the Vegetarian Thali, which offers a hearty, comforting taste of home. For a personalised dining experience, their customizable thalis allow guests to curate a meal tailored to their tastes.
The menu goes way beyond traditional dishes to include an array of cuisines, such as Chinese, Italian, and a rich selection of Pan-Indian fare. Traditional snacks like Dahi Poori, Fafda and Sev Poori are prepared with utmost authenticity and flair. The Sunday special buffet is a must-try, featuring a diverse range of flavours. For dessert, Jalebis, Kalakand and home- made laddus are her best-sellers. Not just in house culinary delights, Mayamani is winning hearts for outdoor catering as well. Restaurant Mayamani’s warm, inviting ambience is a direct reflection of Savita and Pawan’s personalities. They have thoughtfully designed the restaurant’s interiors to create a space that is simple, comforting and elegant. Each visit to MayaMani is not just about enjoying a meal but experiencing a slice of Savita’s culinary journey.
The name “MayaMani” is a heartfelt tribute to Savita’s family. “Maya” honours her mother-in-law’s name and “Mani” has been taken from her father-in-law’s name, Manikchand. Together, they form “MayaMani,” a name that symbolises the fusion of heritage and culinary excellence, encapsulating the deep respect and love embedded in the restaurant’s essence.
Living life to the Fullest
Savita’s approach to life and work is a vibrant blend of dedication and joy. She balances her career with personal pursuits, making time for important events, reiki sessions, and joyful gatherings. Her commitment extends to sharing her culinary creations as Prasad at religious sermons, where she actively participates in bhajans and celebrations. This seamless integration of work and personal joy enriches her life and inspires those around her to embrace each moment with similar enthusiasm.
Looking to the Future
Savita’s vision for MayaMani extends beyond its current success. She envisions expanding her restaurant brand across Dubai and beyond. Despite the restaurant’s current location on the outskirts of the city, Savita is determined to grow her brand and reach more people with the delicious taste of her culinary offerings.
Savita’s journey exemplifies how passion, dedication, and a supportive partnership can turn dreams into reality. MayaMani stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when one remains grounded in one’s roots while sharing one’s love with the world. In a city known for its fast-paced and evolving landscape, MayaMani offers a reminder that heartfelt endeavours when nurtured with love and commitment, can leave a lasting impact!
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