Founder's Personal Story: "Returning to My Roots: Why Uttarakhand Holds a Special Place in iCKREATE's Heart"

The crisp scent of pine after a monsoon shower. The first ray of sun hitting the majestic, snow-capped peaks. This is the symphony of my childhood, the soundtrack of Doon Valley. For me, the day began with long morning walks through the lush green forests, hand-in-hand with my grandfather.

I can still close my eyes and feel it: the cool air on my face, the invigorating smell of wet soil, the distinct aroma of pine bark. Every morning, we'd exchange warm greetings with the other walkers, a familiar ritual that wove us into the fabric of the community. My grandfather, ever the teacher, would refresh my knowledge of current events during our strolls, his wisdom as steady as the mountains. He'd point out different flowers and trees along the way, naming them, sharing their stories, deepening my connection to the vibrant ecosystem around us. On our return, the warmth of the sun's rays, filtering through the trees, was a comforting embrace. And from the rooftop of my granddad's home, the beautiful Himalayan peaks stood guard, a majestic backdrop, their outlines glimmering with the scattered lights of Mussoorie at dusk. Hot afternoons after school were made utterly enjoyable by the cooling effect of the fresh water canals – a simple pleasure that felt like pure magic.

This was the Doon that was, and in many ways, still is, at its heart. Life moved at a different pace, unhurried and deeply connected. People preferred walking or cycling; for longer distances, it was the local bus or the quirky auto-rickshaw we affectionately called "Vikram." Shopping wasn't a click away on Blinkit; it was an experience in the bustling streets of Paltan Bazaar, a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and familiar faces. We walked to the local shop for our daily items, and in doing so, we knew our neighbours. We didn't just exchange pleasantries; we shared happiness, illness, and sorrows, a true testament to community. Having been brought up in such an environment, an innate attachment to Nature blossomed within me, fostering an appreciation for the profound purity that can only come from its embrace.

Post-engineering, the path ahead led me away from the valley, towards the bustling cities where the tech companies thrived and careers were forged. It was a necessary step, a chapter of growth and ambition. But no matter how far I ventured, how loud the city hummed, the love for the place I called home always pulled me back. There was, and always will be, a sense of calm and belongingness that washes over me the moment I step back into Dehradun. It's a connection that runs deeper than just memories; it's a part of who I am, a reminder of the purity and authenticity that remain my guiding stars.

It was from this very appreciation for creativity, nurtured by the boundless beauty of Doon, that the idea of iCKREATE began to blossom. My love for photography, ignited during those formative years, found a new purpose: to turn captured moments into tangible impact, sharing my creative vision with the world. I began by transforming the soul of my photographs into vibrant designs, printing them on apparel, ceramic mugs, and various merchandise, hoping to infuse everyday items with a touch of unique artistry.

As iCKREATE grew, leading me to showcase our creations in exhibitions across different cities, a profound realisation began to emerge. I was continually awestruck by the sheer vastness and diversity of creativity that thrives across our incredible country. From intricate textiles to handcrafted pottery, from ancient painting techniques to modern interpretations of traditional art – India's creative spirit was limitless. It was then that iCKREATE's mission expanded; it became about more than just my photographs. It transformed into a platform dedicated to promoting the rich tapestry of Indian handicrafts and culture to the world, celebrating the artistry woven into the very fabric of our nation.

With this broader vision firmly taking root, a deep, persistent longing connected back to my earliest roots in Uttarakhand. It became clear that to truly fulfil iCKREATE's evolving purpose, I needed to bring this journey full circle. To promote the unique, natural products born from the land that gave me such beautiful memories, and to give back to the place, and its people, in a way that truly mattered. This yearning, sparked by the vast creativity discovered across India, found its most authentic echo in the pristine valleys of the Himalayas, where my heart truly belonged.

It was during one of my cherished visits back to Doon, a return to that familiar calm, that fate intervened. What began as an accidental meet led me to the remarkable founders of Purta Foods. I was immediately captivated by their vision, particularly their incredible Bugyal Stays—a resort they had meticulously built in Tehri, Garhwal. It wasn't just a place to stay; it was a testament to their philosophy, built from nature without disturbing its delicate balance. Walking through that resort, experiencing their deep respect and responsible attitude towards the environment, solidified my admiration for their ethos.

Their journey, deeply rooted in the land, naturally brought them to launch Purta Foods, driven by a profound desire to promote Uttarakhand's purest and most authentic indigenous products. As iCKREATE was expanding its mission to showcase India's rich cultural tapestry to the world, Purta Foods, seeking to amplify their reach and establish an online presence, approached us.

It was more than just a business inquiry; it was a meeting of minds, an instant recognition of shared values. We discovered a powerful, overlapping vision: a resolute commitment to ethical sourcing, a passionate drive to empower local communities, and a dedication to preserving indigenous knowledge and the purity of nature's gifts. It became abundantly clear: for both iCKREATE and Purta Foods, it wasn't just about products; it was about purpose. It was this profound, shared purpose that brought our collaboration together, destined to bring the untouched essence of the Himalayas to your home, consciously and meaningfully.

And so, this collaboration with Purta Foods isn't merely another chapter for iCKREATE; it's the culmination of a deeply personal and purposeful journey. The "why now" is simple: the time is ripe to move beyond commerce and create a tangible, lasting impact. The purpose of this collaboration stretches far beyond profit, weaving a thread of positive change through every product we offer.

At its core, this initiative is about providing sustainable income and a global platform for the often-unseen heroes of Uttarakhand. These are the custodians of ancient knowledge, the diligent hands that work in harmony with nature, yet often struggle for a fair livelihood. By directly connecting them to you, we bridge distances and ensure their invaluable efforts translate into dignified lives.

It's also about sharing the unique natural bounty and traditional wisdom of the Himalayas with the world. From the unparalleled purity of their honey to the potency of their herbs, these are treasures cultivated in a pristine environment, passed down through generations. These aren't just products; they are a legacy of nature's finest, embodying a purity and authenticity that may not be found everywhere.

For you, our cherished consumers, this collaboration offers a profound way to make a difference with your purchases. Every item you choose from the iCKREATE x Purta Foods collection is a vote for ethical sourcing, for environmental respect, and for community empowerment. You don't just benefit from a pure, natural product; you become a part of a larger story, directly contributing to the well-being of the land and its people.

Ultimately, for me, this collaboration is a heartfelt return, a tangible way to give back to the very land and the very people who shaped me. It's a tribute to the values instilled in me during those long walks in Doon, a fulfilment of the promise to cherish and uplift the essence of Uttarakhand that forever holds a special place in my heart.

And so, it is with immense pride and a deep sense of purpose that we announce the official launch of the iCKREATE x Purta Foods collaboration! What better day to begin this mindful journey into purity and wellness than International Yoga Day, June 21st, 2025? This auspicious day, dedicated to harmony of mind, body, and spirit, perfectly aligns with the essence of our collection – products born from the pristine natural world, offering purity and nourishment for your well-being.

To truly honour the rich tapestry of Uttarakhand's gifts, we've designed this launch as a phased journey. Starting this Yoga Day, we are thrilled to introduce our first category: the exquisite Pure Himalayan Honey. Each golden drop of our Multi Flora and Wild Forest Honey is a testament to the untouched beauty and ancient wisdom of the mountains, a perfect addition to your daily wellness ritual.

But this is just the beginning. The excitement will continue as we unveil a new, incredible category of products from The Himalayas every single week, each bringing another facet of Uttarakhand's natural bounty to your home. From potent superfoods to rejuvenating wellness essentials and unique artisanal creations, prepare to discover treasures that elevate your conscious lifestyle.

We invite you to be more than just a customer; we invite you to be a vital part of this meaningful mission. By supporting the iCKREATE x Purta Foods collaboration, you're not only embracing pure, authentic products, but you're also directly contributing to the sustainable livelihoods of the local communities who nurture these gifts. You're helping us give back to the land that shaped us, preserving its beauty and its heritage for generations to come.

Join us in celebrating purity, purpose, and the powerful connection to our roots. Explore The Himalayan Collection, and let the spirit of Uttarakhand enrich your world.

With heartfelt gratitude and excitement,

The Founder of iCKREATE.