Born from a love for drawing, self-expression and the simple joy of creating, Pakho Shop is a handmade creative venture run by Shravani and Joshua. Shravani is the creative force behind the brand and the sole artist responsible for its distinctive illustrations, while Joshua manages much of the technical, execution and customer-facing aspects, helping transform her ideas into tangible creations.
The story of Pakho began during Shravani’s early college years while she was studying architecture. Drawing had always been a source of comfort for her, allowing her to process everything from difficult experiences to moments of happiness. Her artistic style developed into something raw, unfiltered and childlike, reflecting an honest sense of wonder and the freedom to create without fear of judgement.
Although she experimented with products such as T-shirts, tote bags, charms, keychains and fridge magnets for years, Pakho Shop officially took shape in 2021. The initial idea was sparked when her home accumulated an abundance of artwork, prompting her mother to suggest that she either give it away or sell it. Her first attempts at selling her creations proved successful, eventually developing into the brand it is today.
A Name Inspired by Growth and Transformation
“Pakho” means butterfly in Konkani, a name Shravani chose for its simplicity, charm and personal connection. More importantly, the butterfly reflects the philosophy behind the brand. Its transformation through different stages represents growth, evolution and the eventual emergence of something beautiful.
Pakho Shop embraces that same journey. It aims to evolve continuously while creating artwork that can brighten someone’s day, uplift their spirits and remind them that every stage of life has its own value. At its heart, the brand seeks to spread joy and encourage self-love through art.
Handmade Creations with a Personal Touch
Pakho’s collection is an eclectic expression of the things that resonate most deeply with its creators. From handmade clay animals and playful illustrations to Goa-inspired designs, each creation carries a sense of familiarity and individuality. Cats, dogs and other animals often draw from Shravani’s experiences with pets, while other illustrations emerge from everyday moments, personal struggles and instances of happiness.
The collection includes fridge magnets, keychains, postcards, bottle openers, pin-back badges, planners, books and more. What began with fridge magnets has grown into a diverse range of functional and decorative products.
Interestingly, the first handmade magnets were inspired by Shravani’s upbringing on Chorão Island, where she lives in a third-generation family bar. Her father would often receive sponsored fridge magnets from beverage brands, giving her the idea to repurpose the magnets and create something of her own. That experiment became one of the earliest steps towards the product-driven creative world of Pakho.
Art That Embraces Authenticity
For Pakho, being personal is more than an aesthetic choice; it is central to the brand’s identity. Shravani’s illustrations emerge from her own experiences, emotions, interests and observations, without attempting to filter them according to conventional expectations.
The brand believes that people can sometimes feel judged or excluded for their interests, personalities or ways of expressing themselves. Pakho instead celebrates individuality and encourages people to be comfortable with who they are. Its niche, honest artwork is designed to connect with those who recognise something of themselves within it.
This philosophy is reflected in Shravani’s childlike approach to illustration. She creates without overthinking, allowing her inner child and genuine emotions to guide the process. The result is artwork that feels intimate, imperfect and sincere, creating space for others to find their own meaning in it.
Every Creation Tells a Story
There is no single favourite product at Pakho because every piece represents a part of the journey. Whether it is a tiny sticker or a larger creation, each carries equal emotional value for the people behind the brand.
That attachment also shapes the way the creations are received. Pakho does not dictate exactly how people should interpret its artwork. Instead, it leaves room for individual experiences and emotions to influence the connection. Some customers may relate to the feelings behind an illustration, while others may simply be drawn to its colours, style or symbolism.
The brand believes that genuine art creates its own connection. When an illustration comes from a place of vulnerability, honesty and emotional release, people are free to discover something within it that speaks specifically to them.
Growing Through People and Experiences
For Shravani and Joshua, one of the most rewarding aspects of building Pakho has been the opportunity to work together on something deeply personal. Seeing illustrations transform into useful, tangible objects offers a unique sense of fulfilment, but the relationships built along the way are perhaps even more meaningful.
Over the years, the duo has encountered people who have encouraged them, believed in their work and inspired them to keep improving. These interactions have contributed not only to Pakho’s growth but also to their development as individuals and as a team.
Their journey has not been without challenges. Sourcing materials on time, navigating disagreements, balancing other commitments and dealing with personal circumstances are recurring realities of running a creative venture. Yet, through each setback, they return to a simple belief: they are doing their best, and Pakho remains something that belongs to them.
Looking Beyond Boundaries
The future envisioned for Pakho extends well beyond its current form. The duo hopes to see the brand represented in major cities, airports, villages and destinations across the world. Their ambition is not simply to expand distribution but to carry Pakho’s message of authenticity, encouragement and joy to a much wider audience.
They are also exploring new ways of translating their artwork into different mediums, including digital formats and experiences that may not necessarily take the shape of physical products. The common thread will remain the same: creating things that empower people, uplift them and encourage them to embrace their genuine selves.
The People Behind Pakho
Outside the brand, both founders continue to pursue interests that complement their creative journey. Shravani is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work, reflecting her interest in helping people, empowering communities and engaging in meaningful conversations around subjects that are often overlooked. Her empathetic nature and love for deep conversations naturally align with the values that influence Pakho. She also enjoys watching films in her free time.
Joshua is a music producer who is exploring UI/UX and content creation for brands. He enjoys football and, as an important part of the Pakho partnership, spending time talking with Shravani.
Together, their different strengths create the balance behind the brand: one rooted in artistic expression and emotional storytelling, the other supporting execution, technology and connection.
A Creative Journey Still Unfolding
Pakho Shop represents more than a collection of handmade products. It is an evolving expression of personal experiences, local identity, creativity and the freedom to be genuine. From its beginnings with drawings and repurposed magnets to a growing collection of distinctive products, its journey reflects the very transformation represented by its name.
As Shravani and Joshua look towards taking Pakho onto international platforms, their foundation remains unchanged: create honestly, connect meaningfully and spread a little more joy through every piece. For a brand born from the simple act of drawing as a way to feel lighter, Pakho continues to turn personal expression into something others can carry, use and make their own.