Come What May! - Debajita Apta Dangua

"In 1997, I got married at the age of 19. My husband worked in IAF and thus, began my journey of touring all the nooks and corners of India. Our first destination was Baroda. It was my first time outside Odisha and indeed, a learning experience. I interacted with a number of people, adopted their culture, took up cooking, weaving and make-up.

In 2000, my daughter was born. By this time, I had developed an affinity towards baking and knew that this was my calling. I practiced my skills, while taking care of my daughter. Later, I was asked to teach baking in the Air Force Wives Welfare Association.

We returned to BBSR after a while. I didn't want to sit idle. One of my friends noticed my ability and willingness. She had already asked her son to print out posters. We went to a nearby parlor and requested them to put up the poster. Seeing that, a number of women came to learn baking from me.

Later, I had to shift to another place of BBSR. When I came here, the number of students I had then, reduced. I was discouraged, but unwilling to give up. A group of bachelors in our society asked me to supply them with meals. Gradually, even some hostels asked me to supply food. 

However, due to Fani, all the students returned back to their homes and my food supply business came to an end. Again discouraged, but again, unwilling to give up. I revived my baking business. Since I am a home baker, people preferred to buy from me, given the hygiene factor during Covid.

I have also been blessed enough to showcase my skills on television for OTV, DD National, etc. I also participated in MasterChef India 2019, but unfortunately could not make it to the end. My husband and children are my pillars. Support and motivation came abundantly.

I am a proud wife, mother and baker. Since 1997, I have been working at my own level, never stopping or stooping before any adversity." - Debajita Apta Dangua.