Aiza Bhat, a talented makeup artist, recently took a stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about her journey in the world of cosmetics. Unbeknownst to her teachers, her bag would often contain eye shadows, lip glosses, and palettes, which she would skillfully apply on her clients’ wedding days. With a touch of nostalgia, Aiza shared her past experiences and aspirations.
In 2015, Aiza embarked on her makeup career when the profession was still relatively unknown in the Kashmir valley. During wedding seasons, she would fly from Qatar to Kashmir to cater to her brides. Having gained extensive experience through numerous shows in the Middle East, Aiza made the decision to establish her studio in Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar, where she not only offers makeup and styling services but also provides makeup courses for those interested. She has handpicked a team of exceptionally talented artists to work alongside her.
“I was settled in Qatar when I completed a makeup course in 2015 and started an internship there. I continued shuttling between Kashmir and the Middle East because I was passionate about my work, and my client base grew rapidly,” she explained.
Aiza’s journey in the makeup industry began at the age of 17, as she delved into researching new products and acquiring diverse makeup techniques.
Recently, she launched her own skincare line, featuring products manufactured in Lebanon and Morocco. Her creams, soaps, scrubs, hair masks, and oils have garnered a positive response. Aiza also plans to introduce acne care products in the near future.
“Initially, I used to source these products for my brides, but the demand increased, prompting me to showcase them to a wider audience. The response has been fantastic. One of our standout products is collagen, which is a hormone naturally produced by our skin. However, as we age, the skin’s ability to produce this hormone diminishes. Given that Kashmir is a mountainous region prone to dryness, our products provide effective solutions,” she revealed.
In addition to her skincare line, Aiza’s studio has become a one-stop destination for women seeking garments, footwear, and accessories.
“I studied at Rizvi College in Mumbai, and I also had a background in human resources. However, I pursued my passion for makeup and worked tirelessly to establish myself. The institute where I learned makeup now awards certificates under my name,” Aiza proudly shared.
Aiza faced societal pressure for choosing an unconventional career path, but she remained resilient, thanks to the unwavering support of her father. Although people initially criticized her decision, they now admire her for achieving recognition and success. Throughout her career, she has respected her clients’ privacy and never used their pictures without their consent.
At the age of 23, Aiza hails from a business-oriented family settled in Qatar. Despite this, she felt a strong connection to her roots and returned to Kashmir to start her own venture.
Currently, Aiza is preparing to launch her makeup courses during the winter season. She believes this will be an excellent opportunity for aspiring makeup artists, as she plans to select the most talented individuals to join her studio.
In pursuit of her true passion, Aiza defied her family’s wishes for her to study law. In the past, she even received offers for modeling and acting while she was in Mumbai, but those opportunities did not align with her dreams. She firmly believes in empowering women to pursue their ambitions, regardless of societal expectations.
“I wholeheartedly support women in following their dreams. Let others see you achieve great things, and don’t let society’s judgments hinder your progress. I feel deeply connected to my roots, as I love Kashmir, and now I want to focus my efforts here,” she asserted.
Aiza’s success stems from her commitment to providing top-notch quality and client satisfaction. She charges reasonable rates for her makeup services, firmly believing in the importance of maintaining integrity and avoiding exorbitant prices. For Aiza, every girl’s special day should be celebrated without makeup artists taking advantage of the occasion.
Aiza Bhat’s journey into the makeup world serves as an inspiring tale of determination, passion, and embracing one’s true calling. With her skills, dedication, and genuine desire to uplift others, she continues to make a mark in the industry and contribute to the empowerment of women in Kashmir.
Author Information
Irfan Attari Kashmiri
