Back again with an interesting Hyderabond segment, Esshitha Guna, who hails from Chennai and has created her mark here in the ‘City of Pearls’, joins The Pioneer sharing her affinity for the city
Aarti Sreenath
Esshitha Guna isn’t just a designer; she’s a storyteller, the artist behind Andal Gems & Jewels. She’s not just creating jewellery but also translating the vibrant energy of Hyderabad, into sparkling stones and exquisite designs.
“Hyderabad is home and heart for me in a nutshell,” Esshitha shares, brimming with warmth. Born in Chennai but raised in the City of Pearls, her connection with Hyderabad runs deep. “I was born in Chennai, but my parents moved to Hyderabad when I was just months old. It’s where I grew up and have all my wonderful memories. The city intertwines seamlessly with my identity and cherished memories, becoming the very essence of my upbringing and cultural foundation.”
Esshitha’s childhood memories are a treasure trove of inspiration, When asked about her journey in the city, her affection for Hyderabad shines through. “Hyderabad will always have my heart; it’s a city with a ‘giving’ nature, offering opportunities all around for those who seek them. Personally, it’s where my friends, family, and work are! The city by itself is beautiful, with a lot of variety in food, culture, and activities,” she added.
For those migrating to Hyderabad and harboring apprehensions, she offers words of wisdom drawn from her own experience. “Moving to a new place comes with its fears and excitement, but until you get into the shoes of a local and try it out yourself, you won’t know the true essence of that city. Give it time, settle in and get a breath of the new air. Hyderabad is definitely a city of opportunities. The people here are warm and welcoming and open to trying new ideas. There are multiple areas one could venture into, be it F&B, IT, finance, fashion and many more. The city is brimming with variety.”
Also a gemologist, she shares that Hyderabad’s uniqueness lies in its well-segregated specialities. “If there’s anything particular you’re looking for, you know exactly where to go, which locality in particular. Hyderabad has a balance in living which may top it off on the list of cities in India, from the historic forts, palaces, parks, and Nizam’s legacy to the ever-growing IT hubs, eateries, breweries, greenery, and lakes!”
“The city’s history whispers through every happening bazaar and ancient monument,” Esshitha explains. “It’s a constant source of inspiration, from the intricate carvings on the Charminar to the kaleidoscope of colors in the local markets.” This influence translates into her work, where traditional motifs find a new life alongside contemporary cuts and bold gemstones. Hyderabad becomes more than just a backdrop.
When prompted about the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Hyderabad, Esshitha’s response was heartfelt. “The people. My friends, family and team are majorly from Hyderabad. They mean everything to me! It’ll always be my first thought. Apart from that, it’s the ever-growing nature of the city to keep improving and upgrading, from new infrastructure to more fitness parks.”
Her fondest memories are rooted back to her schooling days. “Schooling in Hyderabad is one special memory. The OG landmarks of the city like the Necklace Road drive, IMAX theater, KBR Park; these were some fond memories for me as a kid.”
Hyderabad also plays a pivotal role in her career. “Hyderabad will always be the city of Andal’s flagship. The people of Hyderabad have been so warm and appreciative; they are fun-loving and take the time out to celebrate the little and big moments in life. That resonates with our brand ideology and also fits our category of products. The cherry on top is the work culture, which has a great balance as well.”
Esshitha speaks passionately about Hyderabad’s rich stone culture. “Hyderabad’s stone culture is deeply rooted in its historical fascination with gemstone jewelry, initially favored by the Nizams for their warm-toned royal hues of rubies, emeralds and tourmalines. Today, this tradition has evolved into a vibrant market embracing a broader spectrum of colors, from pastels to vivid pops in gemstone jewelry. This shift reflects not only changing fashion trends but also a growing appreciation for diversity in gemstone aesthetics, catering to modern tastes while honouring the city’s rich heritage in jewelry craftsmanship.”
When asked about her likes and dislikes about Hyderabad, Esshitha noted, “I like the variety the city has to offer in terms of food and things to do. I am disliking the recent rise in traffic, which can make commuting a challenge.”
Living in Hyderabad has allowed Esshitha to witness significant transformations. “Ive seen a noticeable transformation characterised by rapid growth in every aspect. There are more high-rises dotting the skyline, offering a modern contrast to the city’s historic architecture. The culinary scene has expanded dramatically, offering diverse cuisines and dining experiences. Likewise, there’s been a surge in recreational activities, catering to varied interests and preferences. Amidst this growth, Hyderabad has also seen an increase in job opportunities and economic activities, making it a thriving hub with dynamic possibilities for residents and visitors alike.”
When people from other cities visit Hyderabad, they always look forward to certain experiences. “Most people who visit Hyderabad want to take back Biryani! It is one of our specialties here. There are many great places for that. They also like to visit Charminar, Old City, Necklace Road and many more historic areas filled with charm and culture,” she asserts.
For Esshitha Guna, Hyderabad is more than just a city; it is a place of profound emotional significance. “Home with all my heart,” she concludes, her tone filled with affection and pride for the city.
