As chairperson of Rajshree Sugars & Chemicals, an integrated sugar company with interests in sugar, alcohol, fuel ethanol, renewable energy & agri-biotech, Rajshree Pathyis a recognised business face both in Tamil Nadu and nationally. With her varied interests in ayurveda, art, architecture and design, she is among the most multi-faceted CEOs in Tamil Nadu.TOI spoke to her about her interests and what drives her. Excerpts: You wanted to study architecture, instead studied commerce and finally ended up running a sugar company. Did things pan out the way you thought they would?The tragedy of my parents’ passing in my early 30s shattered all my personal expectations. I had to take over the business and make it a success! At that point, there was no conflict within me. I have no regrets as Rajshree Sugars gave me the opportunity to shine and contribute to the sugar industry on a national level. I always believe in turning adverse situations into positive outcomes. You’ve had a really long innings as a woman CEO handling multiple businesses from sugar to high-end toiletries to ayurveda. Looking back, which of these ventures were most exciting for you and why?At my core, I’m a creative person — I loathe labels and defy definition and believe passion makes anything possible. Whether it’s sugar, ayurveda, design or art, it’s all part of one seamless journey.Kama Ayurveda began as an idea among four close friends, something we all believed in. We are proud of creating one of India’s first luxury wellness brands — now part of a global company. Recently, I launched Qi Ayurveda, a haircare range that blends authentic ayurvedic wisdom with advanced Swiss botanical actives. For me, it’s exciting to watch a thought become reality. You have a fantastic art collection and are known as a connoisseur of art. How did that passion begin?I grew up in a culturally rich environment, surrounded by family that appreciated Carnatic music, Western classical traditions, and in homes filled with books on art, museums, and architecture.My mother was a strong influence — she began collecting contemporary art and sculpture in the 1970s during visits to Mumbai and Ahmedabad, cities where modernist ideas thrived and where we had close friends. I naturally gravitated toward contemporary art and began collecting while still in college. But more than the artworks themselves, it’s the long-standing relationships with the artists — the shared memories and life experiences — that have been truly meaningful. How did the India Design Forum happen? What was the trigger for it and how important is design for you?I’ve long felt the need for open, honest dialogue around design thinking and its impact. In 2012, I launched the non-profit India Design Forum (IDF), now India’s leading platform for promoting innovative design and raising awareness of its value across industries. IDF collaborates with industry bodies, policymakers, governments, and global organizations through forums, workshops, and exhibitions. In 2016, I curated Chakraview — India’s first official entry to the inaugural London Design Biennale, endorsed by the Govt of India. How did your interest in architecture begin and how connected is it to your interest in design and art?My childhood home was designed by a Sri Lankan architect inspired by the Bauhaus — starkly different from anything I’d seen growing up. My mother wanted an industrial, minimalist home with no decoration — just clean lines, glass bricks, and white walls. That experience sparked my self-taught journey into architecture and a deep appreciation for spatial simplicity. I’ve carried that philosophy into my work, including designing the sustainable, minimalist packaging for Qi Ayurveda using pure, eco-friendly material. After more than four decades in the corner office, what’s your leadership mantra?Stay true to your values. Walk the talk. Build trust. Above all, stay relevant. The world is changing rapidly, and without innovation, you risk becoming obsolete. How has the world of business changed since you took over the reins of your company?We are in the age of AI. Anyone with a cellphone can access all information. So one needs to think on one’s feet and strategise growth and survival in business. Opportunities in India are endless, nowhere else can you grow at this pace. Go grab the golden goose, before someone else does.