If you think that getting an MBA from a top B-school means settling for a corporate job, then you need to hear the story of Lakshya Chawla. Born in Jalandhar with an impressive academic record, Lakshya chose a different path. Instead of opting for a typical 9-6 job after his MBA, he picked up a camera, and today, he is one of India’s most sought-after celebrity wedding photographers.
How Did the Journey Begin?
Born on March 28, 1990, in Jalandhar, Lakshya always excelled in academics. He scored a 95 percentile in CAT and pursued his MBA from the Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai. However, he never saw himself sitting behind a corporate desk. His creative spark and passion for photography led him to take a different route.
Lakshya’s mother, Smita Chawla, is a professional musician, and his father, Pardeep Chawla, who used to runs a battery manufacturing business in Bhiwani, Rajasthan. Growing up in a creative environment, he developed a keen interest in music and photography. During his graduation, he discovered photography platforms like Flickr and wildlife photography websites, which ignited his love for the camera.
From Hobby to Career
With his savings, Lakshya bought his first camera and shot his sister’s wedding. When he shared those pictures on social media, the overwhelming response from friends and family made him realize his true calling.
Around 2011-12, pre-wedding shoots were just emerging as a trend in India. Sensing the potential in this field, he decided to turn his passion into a profession. In 2013, he founded ‘Shutterdown,’ his own wedding photography company. With time, his company gained recognition, and today, he has shot weddings ofBollywood celebrities like Vikrant Massey and Keerthy Suresh, along with many top business personalities.
A Successful Business & Prestigious Awards
Today, Shutterdown is a successful business, and Lakshya has received numerous accolades. In 2021, he was named one of the ‘Times Most Influential Personalities’ and has also won the prestigious ‘Wedding Film Maker of the Year’ award.
Lessons from Lakshya Chawla
Lakshya’s journey proves that success doesn’t come from following a conventional path but from recognizing and pursuing your passion. If you are stuck in a 9-6 job and dreaming of doing something different, his story is an inspiration for you.
