Markets today are characterized by rapid technological advancements, changing consumer behaviours, and fierce competition. As such, clinging rigidly to traditional methods can sometimes stifle innovation and hinder progress. To remain relevant, businesses must be willing to break away from conventional practices and embrace modern sensibilities. This could mean adopting cutting-edge technologies, rethinking workplace structures, or catering to the values and expectations of a younger, more diverse consumer base. By doing so, businesses not only ensure their adaptability but also position themselves as pioneers, capable of capturing new opportunities that emerge in dynamic markets.
However, completely discarding tradition can also be a misstep, as it risks alienating loyal customers and diluting the unique identity of a brand. The key lies in finding a balance between honouring traditional values and embracing innovation. For instance, a heritage brand could leverage its storied history while integrating modern marketing strategies, such as social media campaigns or sustainable practices, to appeal to contemporary audiences. This harmony between old and new creates a resonance that can strengthen a business’s appeal across generations. By respecting the past while preparing for the future, companies can build a foundation that is not only innovative but also deeply rooted in trust and authenticity—ingredients vital for long-term success.
When Dr Abhishek Gilara stepped into the jewellery business industry, he did so not just as a successor, but as a challenger of the status quo. Born into a family that had nurtured a successful jewellery business, Rambhajo’s, for over a century, Dr Gilara had his biggest career challenge in front of him – breaking the mould of tradition. He had a tough time convincing stakeholders—within his own family and the market—that Rambhajo needed to break away from age-old jewellery design templates and reimagine the identity of Rambhajo. While the legacy business had its strengths, it lacked a modern artistic flair that resonated with global bridal aesthetics. This led him to launch unique collections, push boundaries in design, and rebrand Rambhajo’s identity in a way that preserved heritage while introducing bold innovation.
It took him years, but the risk paid off. He overcame this challenge by relentlessly upskilling himself—learning design principles, consumer psychology, and branding. He visited factories, worked closely with artisans, and personally directed design innovations. What he learned was that persistence, backed with knowledge and clear vision, can shift even the most rigid traditional mindsets.
Born to be an Entrepreneur
Dr Gilara’s professional journey has been rooted in creativity, family legacy, and a relentless desire to stand out in the world of artistic expression. With a strong inclination towards artistry and aesthetics, he found himself deeply drawn to the nuances of jewellery design and craftsmanship.
Choosing entrepreneurship was a natural progression for him. While the foundation of his family business provided a platform, it was his internal drive to innovate and bring uniqueness into the jewellery space that shaped his path.
Dr Gilara refused to settle for common designs or take the easy route. Instead, he focused on building the company into a brand that would later become a cornerstone of fine, handcrafted jewellery, merging traditional techniques with modern sensibilities. From his Jaipur-based atelier, he meticulously handpicks every diamond and gemstone, ensuring that only the most exceptional materials find their way into his creations. His passion for crafting stunning designs is matched by an unwavering commitment to quality, allowing his masterpieces to resonate with timeless elegance. His journey, from a curious learner in a legacy-driven business to the Creative Director and strategic head of Rambhajo’s growth into the modern era, has been one marked by bold decisions, relentless learning, and a passion for detail.
Transformational Leadership
Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Abhishek Gilara, Rambhajo’s Jewels has flourished as global symbol of Indian craftsmanship and innovation. With a legacy spanning over a century, Rambhajo’s has become synonymous with exquisite Kundan, Meena, Polki, and Jadau jewellery, while it also bridges the gap between heritage and modernity. Dr Gilara’s meticulous attention to detail, from personally selecting the finest diamonds and gemstones to ensuring the preservation of traditional techniques, has elevated these brands to international acclaim. His Jaipur-based atelier serves as a hub of artistry and precision, where each creation reflects a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and contemporary design.
Dr. Gilara’s contributions extend beyond craftsmanship; his strategic vision has propelled Rambhajo’s to serve over 800,000 clients across five continents. By integrating advanced technology with age-old artistry, he has ensured that the brands remain relevant in a competitive global market. His commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer-centricity has not only strengthened the brand’s reputation but also showcased the timeless elegance of Indian jewellery to a diverse, discerning audience worldwide. Through his leadership, Dr. Gilara has transformed Rambhajo’s into enduring icons of excellence and tradition.
A Focused, Disciplined, and Creative Working Style
Dr. Abhishek Gilara’s working style can be described as disciplined, detail-oriented, and creative—a blend of qualities that set him apart as a leader and artisan. His days begin as early as 2:30 AM, dedicated to structured planning and deep work hours. During this time, his focus revolved around strategy, innovative design, and personal growth, all of which contributed to his exceptional craftsmanship and visionary approach.
He believes in addressing both the macro and micro aspects of business with equal diligence. From elevating customer experiences and driving design innovation to strategizing market expansion and positioning Rambhajo’s on a national scale, Dr. Gilara’s approach is holistic and meticulous. These qualities have been integral to his success in crafting timeless jewellery that resonates with elegance and authenticity while establishing Rambhajo as a revered name in the Indian jewellery industry.
Through his disciplined routine and creative passion, Dr Gilara ensures that his artistry reflects a balance of tradition and modernity, captivating clients and leaving an indelible mark on the world of fine jewellery.
Empathetic Yet Clear Communication Style
Dr. Abhishek Gilara’s communication style is often characterized as empathetic yet clear, a balanced approach that reflects his dedication to both personal connection and organizational efficiency. He believes that effective leadership is built on the foundation of listening, understanding, and guiding. For him, communication is not just about delivering instructions but also about fostering meaningful relationships that drive collaboration and innovation.
He places great emphasis on maintaining close rapport with his team members, ensuring that they feel valued and heard. This approach cultivates trust, loyalty, and creativity within the organization, empowering individuals to contribute their best. Dr. Gilara views approachability as a cornerstone of his leadership style; it enables him to stay connected to the pulse of his organization, gaining insights into real-time challenges and opportunities. His empathetic nature makes him an inspiring presence, motivating his team to strive for excellence while fostering a positive and open working environment.
At the same time, Dr. Gilara upholds the importance of clarity in communication. He ensures that expectations, timelines, and accountability are defined with precision, leaving no room for ambiguity. This disciplined approach allows his team to operate with confidence and alignment, ensuring that organizational goals are consistently met. Through a combination of warmth and precision, Dr. Gilara’s communication style not only strengthens interpersonal relationships but also drives strategic outcomes, making him a highly effective and respected leader.
A Tough Decision: Restructuring and Realigning During the Pandemic
Navigating through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most defining moments in Dr. Gilara’s entrepreneurial journey. With wholesale operations severely disrupted and footfall at physical stores plummeting, the situation demanded tough but decisive actions. It was clear that traditional ways of operating were no longer viable, and to ensure the survival of the business, he made the difficult decision to temporarily shut down certain parts of Rambhajo’s operations. This was accompanied by a strategic realignment of staff roles and a bold shift toward embracing digital-first strategies.
Dr Gilara invested in innovative solutions like a virtual showroom experience elevated the group’s online presence, and undertook the essential task of retraining the team to adapt to the new digital landscape. Though these steps were not without challenges, they marked a turning point. The results exceeded expectations, not only sustaining the business but also opening up new opportunities. They tapped into a previously unexplored customer segment that was eager to engage with us digitally, establishing deeper connections and showcasing Rambhajo’s adaptability.
This pivotal transformation laid the foundation for a resilient comeback post-pandemic. More importantly, it future-proofed Rambhajo’s business model, positioning it to thrive in a world where agility and innovation are paramount. It was a testament to the power of tough decisions, strategic thinking, and embracing change in the face of adversity.
Decision-Making in Uncertainty: Going Inward and Looking Upward
Dr Abhishek Gilara approaches uncertainty by turning inward for clarity and upward for wisdom. His disciplined routine begins with early mornings, meditation, and daily prayer, providing him with mental and spiritual alignment. By revisiting his long-term vision, he gains perspective and clarity on his goals. Additionally, Dr Gilara seeks guidance from mentors like Marshall Goldsmith and reflects on the teachings of spiritual leaders like Premanand Ji. This process helps him navigate difficult decisions by distinguishing emotions from logic. Aligning both heart and mind, he ensures that his actions resonate with purpose, allowing him to lead effectively even in uncertain times.
The Brand. The Culture. The Uniqueness
Rambhajo stands apart through its unwavering dedication to originality and craftsmanship. Rooted in a rich cultural heritage, it specializes in exclusive, made-to-order bridal jewellery that not only adorns but tells a meaningful story. Its innovative in-house design lab blends traditional artistry with contemporary creativity, ensuring each piece is a unique masterpiece. An artisan-first production approach reflects its commitment to preserving the essence of Indian craftsmanship, while its high-touch client experience transforms jewellery buying into a personal and memorable journey. It is more than a brand—it is a curator of timeless elegance and custodian of a deep-rooted cultural legacy.
Furthermore, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Gilara, Rambhajo balances tradition with innovation, blending scalability with bespoke excellence. With an ambitious goal of expanding to 300 stores, he is redefining growth without compromising the soul of the brand’s creations. This strategy ensures that while they reach new horizons globally, every piece they craft maintains the exclusivity and emotional resonance that has earned Rambhajo its reputation as a pioneer in the Indian jewellery industry.
Efficient Management over Micromanagement
Dr. Gilara firmly advocates for efficient management as the cornerstone of effective leadership, steering clear of micromanagement. He believes in empowering department heads and core team leaders to take full ownership of their responsibilities, enabling them to operate with confidence and autonomy. By fostering an environment of trust and accountability, he ensures that his team feels valued and motivated to perform at their best. His leadership philosophy prioritizes providing direction, setting clear objectives, and offering unwavering support rather than involving himself in every granular detail of daily operations.
That said, Dr. Gilara also recognizes the importance of maintaining oversight. He keeps a vigilant eye on key metrics and high-priority projects, ensuring that goals are met through structured reviews and transparent reporting systems. This balanced approach allows him to strike the perfect harmony between delegation and oversight—ensuring operational efficiency while nurturing a culture of empowerment and innovation within his organization. Through this method, Dr. Gilara achieves not only organizational growth but also the personal and professional development of his team.
Advice to Budding Entrepreneurs
Dr Gilara concludes our interaction with the following piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs:
“Don’t chase success—chase excellence. Find a problem you deeply care about and solve it with commitment, authenticity, and a hunger to improve every single day. The journey of entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted—it demands sacrifices, resilience, and continuous learning.
Avoid the trap of comparing yourself with others. Build your own timeline. Trust the process. And most importantly, cultivate discipline—because talent gets you started, but discipline takes you to the finish line.
Also, understand your “why.” When your purpose is clear, every challenge becomes a stepping stone. Surround yourself with mentors, stay humble, and give back as you rise. That’s true success.”