Seamless Ties: Sandhya Manniesing’s Tale Of Fashion, Triumph, And Deep Bonds

Do you know that feeling? The one where you converse with someone for the very first time, yet it feels as if you’ve been friends for years? This was the essence of the connection I felt with Sandhya Manniesing from the moment we began speaking. Despite her hectic schedule, filled with television recordings, Sandhya generously made time to engage in conversation and schedule an appointment with me. Her demeanor was warm, loving, and welcoming, making me feel at ease right from our initial interaction.

The day I was to meet Sandhya arrived amidst my busy life as an entrepreneur, mother, and columnist. In the whirlwind of my responsibilities, I had overlooked an extra study week for my son, Logan. Given that my children often accompanied me on my ventures, I decided to bring Logan along for this particular meeting. Upon our arrival at her dance school, the very place where her dreams took shape, we were greeted by Sandhya herself. Our greeting was akin to that of long-lost friends reuniting, an attestation to the immediate and profound connection we shared. I introduced her to Logan, my little helper for the day, and she, without a moment’s hesitation, presented toys from her son, Brighton, for Logan to play with. As she prepared a cup of hot chocolate for him and tea for me, I couldn’t help but admire the beautiful fabrics, creations, and royal baroque chairs that adorned her studio.

Sandhya’s hospitality, despite her busy schedule, spoke volumes of her warm and caring personality. The ambiance of her dance school, coupled with the sight of her beautiful creations, added a magical touch to our meeting.

As we began to talk, I was utterly captivated by her. She showed me a peacock embellishment she had created overnight, adorned with colorful, sparkling stones. Sitting down to learn more about her story, I inquired about her life. Sandhya’s narrative began with her upbringing in a large family without a father, being the youngest among her siblings. A pivotal moment in her youth was a seemingly ordinary grocery shopping trip with her mother, which took an unexpected turn when her mother asked her to wait outside. It was then that she overheard a distressing exchange between her mother and a shopkeeper over unpaid groceries. This incident shattered her perception of her mother’s relentless strength, revealing vulnerabilities Sandhya had never seen. It ignited a fierce determination in her to ensure such moments of helplessness were never repeated.

The resolve she felt led her to take on three jobs the very next day, all while continuing her education, to support her mother financially. Coming from a family where higher education wasn’t prioritized, Sandhya was nonetheless inspired by a neighborhood friend who attended a prestigious school. This inspiration drove her to courageously switch from a lower level of secondary education to eventually obtaining her pre-university diploma. Her educational journey didn’t stop there; with diploma in hand, she traveled to India, where she succeeded in earning her Master’s degree in Dance.

Upon returning, armed with knowledge and skills, she aspired to teach dance. Initially faced with sabotage and a lack of students after the previous teacher’s departure, she persisted, starting with just one student. Her determination paid off as her dance school grew in popularity, becoming a success beyond her wildest dreams. Sandhya’s resilience extended to her personal life as well. During this time, she faced a significant personal challenge when she became pregnant with Brighton. Her handsome boyfriend at the time was opposed to the idea of having a child, leaving her to make a heart-wrenching decision between her partner and her unborn child. Choosing Brighton, she embarked on a journey of single parenthood, facing fears and societal judgment while running her dance school from an industrial estate apartment.

Despite these challenges, Sandhya’s love for fashion and her son provided her with the strength to persevere. Her journey, marked by strength, creativity, and a deep commitment to her passions and family, showcases her remarkable ability to overcome adversity. Together, Sandhya and Brighton, who has an intellectual disability but a heart of immense wisdom and kindness, have faced the world with unconditional strength and courage, embodying the true essence of a united front. Sandhya’s passion for fabrics, clothing, and design, alongside her belief that every woman is a queen deserving of beautiful attire, has not only shaped her career but also her identity as a powerful, inspiring woman.

Sandhya’s foray into the fashion industry was fraught with challenges, embodying the adage that anything that could go wrong, did. Her indomitable spirit, fueled by courage, perseverance, strength, and steadfast faith, paved her path to success. However, it wasn’t just in her professional life where she found success and fulfillment. Beyond the challenges and triumphs of her career, she discovered profound personal happiness with the love of her life, her husband. He has been a pillar of unwavering support and affection, standing by her side through every high and low. In him, Sandhya found not just a partner but a soulmate, someone truly deserving of her love and perfectly complementing the joy she finds in her son, Brighton. Together, they form an unbreakable bond, a testament to the power of love and support in overcoming life’s hurdles.

Over the years, Sandhya has created the most exquisite creations, each a statement to her rich, royal designs that exude color, vibrancy, and a passionate love for fashion. Her designs empower every woman to feel like a true queen, draped in garments made with love and an exceptional eye for beauty.

However, Sandhya’s journey wasn’t without its setbacks. A particularly disheartening moment occurred in January when she, along with her dedicated team from “Passe Partout”, faced rejection at the doorstep of the Ritz Hotel in Paris. This hotel, situated in the heart of Place Vendôme, is not just any hotel but a historic monument, commanding €28,000 per night for its Imperial Suite. Their denial of entry, due to a lack of reservation and upfront payment, was a bitter pill to swallow.

Yet, destiny had grander plans for her. In a twist of fate, she was invited to host her fashion show at the Ritz Palace Hotel during Paris Fashion Week just a month later. Standing where she had once been turned away, Sandhya was now warmly welcomed by the Ritz staff, her show met with enthusiastic applause from the hotel’s regular guests. Her models, embodying the grace and poise of Indian dancers, brought her designs to life on the catwalk, their movements a dance in themselves, perfectly complementing the elegance and beauty of her creations.

This achievement was beyond Sandhya’s wildest dreams. Collaborating with such a prestigious venue as the Ritz Hotel seemed an insurmountable dream, given the challenges of location, technology, and financing. Yet, she exceeded all expectations, captivating the attention of photographers who had once focused on celebrities like Naomi Campbell, now eager to capture her models and designs.

Sandhya’s passion for presenting individuals in a regal manner has seen her brand, “Passe Partout”, launched in some of the most luxurious locations worldwide. Her journey, marked by no limits, showcases her as a multifaceted individual—strong, kind, beautiful, and immensely talented. More than her talents, Sandhya is a phenomenal mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend, inspiring those around her with her hard work, perseverance, and the vastness of her heart. She had the loving support of her husband.

Witnessing her journey and the unfolding of her dreams, especially her triumphant moment at Paris Fashion Week, has been a privilege. I am deeply grateful for the friendship that has blossomed between us, a statement to the unexpected and beautiful connections life can bring.