Meet Somya Gupta | Director of mala market

We had the good fortune of connecting with Somya Gupta and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Somya, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind mala market stemmed from years of observation and realization that we, as consumers, have a very out of sight out of mind mentality. This allows us to consume without any consequences on our conscious. I wanted to create a place where consumer behavior shifted towards a more purposeful and intentional practice. The concept behind mala market started because I believe that we, as a community above all else, can lift up our local makers and participate in a more circular economy by shopping local and handmade. By supporting local makers, mala market hopes to shift the conversation from over consumption to mindful consumption. We can’t keep living in this out of sight out of mind state.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I come from a background in dance. I trained classically in ballet and modern for more than 15 years of my life. The art form has molded me into what I am today. It has shown me the practice of self-discipline. It has made me fight for things that I didn’t ever believe I could do. And dance has taken me to corners of the world where life lessons were learned and life long friendships were born. Dance created an energy in my body that constantly craves movement and alignment in all things. I believe this energy has led me to many great opportunities and has kept my eagerness alive. After dancing professionally for about 5 years, I was able to take my lessons from training and put them into different layers of my life. I enjoy exploring these transitions in my life from industry to industry. There is lots to learn, always. In conclusion, my dance training has taken me on a genuine path of life and I am so glad to acknowledge that same energy spilling into mala market. The non-profit mission behind mala market has roots in that eager and determined energy. I am excited to see how that energy molds into new waves with mala market!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend was visiting, they already know we are spending all the hours in the sun! Gaby, if you’re reading this, I promise I will wear sunscreen 🙂

We would start the morning with an early rise and fresh cut fruits to get the digestive system rolling. We would then make our way to the Urban Harvest farmers market with a nice cup of tea in hand. After that, breakfast would consist of the market finds and maybe some more tea! After that, we are headed straight for the beach. Surfside would be our home for the rest of the day! I would bring my board out, we would catch some waves, hang with the local crew out there, eat some more delicious food from the farmers market, and watch the sunset. And to end the night, home cooked dinner and a movie…and dessert. Always dessert.

If we were going to eat out, I would take them to the Hilcroft area to enjoy the diverse cuisine of Houston. Pondicherry for their talis and Campesino for their cafe de olla. Buffalo Bayou trail for a nice run and skate park sesh. If we are feeling groovy, maybe a hip hop class at Soreal or Garage 713 studios. El Bolillo for dessert overload. And finally, the skylawn at the Post HTX for amazing views of htown skyline and Blackwood’s new skygarden.

Houston has so much to offer and my friends would need more than a week to get the full HTOWN experience!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My narrative is built on the support of my close friends and family. I am surrounded by beautiful people that encourage me to challenge myself and push my own boundaries – but that also remind me to stay simple in life and enjoy the moments I get to experience right now. My parents and siblings are always willing to give honest feedback, which is something I contribute to the success of my ventures. Their contributions help keep me leveled.

My close friends constantly fill me up with love. They value my efforts whole heartedly and are always cheering me on.

My partner is a constant reminder to enjoy these exciting moments in time. His compassionate energy reminds me to breath through it all.

A huge shout-out also goes to the local farmers and co-ops in Houston. Central City Co-Op and Natural Living are two co-ops that have helped me dive deep into the world of sustainably grown foods. The local growers in Houston practice growing in a way that fosters clean health for the people and the environment. There is something so inspiring about what they do. I am fortunate to have talked with organic farmers and realize that we can make a change if we start working on solutions right now.

And last but not least, this beautiful earth keeps me fighting for her. The elements of nature and the environment that surrounds us is the real reason we need to start reflecting on our own narratives.

I am grateful for the beauty that surrounds us and the love that is shared with me.

Website: https://www.malamarkethtx.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malamarkethtx/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malamarkethtx