A Few Of Boito Founder, Richa Maheshwari's Favourite Things

I love quiet, nature-filled getaways - which is actually how Boito was born in the first place. I think it’s important to balance periods of intense work with periods of intense rest. I have been a big fan of Linger’s ‘do nothing’ vacations, which provide perfect destinations for escape. For luggage, Samsonite suitcases have never failed me. I’m also quite a keen hiker, and I rely on Decathlon for all my tent and backpacking needs. Any hiker will tell you the importance of good footwear, and for me, my Merrell Moab hiking shoes are a must.

When it comes to footwear, I prioritise comfort. Hush Puppies and Birkenstocks are my go-to choices for their ergonomic design and durability. 

Cooking is a big part of my routine, and I love using well-designed cookware and serveware that makes the process more enjoyable. I swear by my Nestasia cast iron pots and P-tal brass utensils.

Anokhi and FabIndia are staples in my home - two old favourites that just don't go out of style. At the dinner table, I love Good Earth’s linen collection. For furniture, Dtale Modern offers a lot of design variations to adapt to different spaces, and allows for an eclectic mix of tastes. I like to add quirky accents here and there, and pottery from Ellementry - like their little cow dung diyas, adds that perfect touch.

Pro-Tip: Upcycled Furniture & Home Decor Brands That Turn Scraps To Fab

For me, self-care routines have to be minimal and eco-conscious. While I want to use products that are effective, it’s important that they are natural or as close to natural as possible. Some everyday essentials include Nat Habit and Speaking Tree soaps, shampoo bars from Earth Rhythm, and Bare Necessities toothbrushes. For skincare and makeup, I rely on Just Herbs face oils and cosmetics for their clean products. I also love Asaya sunscreen for its incredibly light and absorbent texture. Once in a while, I treat myself to a good head massage, and Kapiva hair oils are my go-to.

Of course, Odia food is my absolute favourite - and nothing beats the flavour or simplicity of a homecooked meal when I am in Odisha. In Bangalore, classic South Indian eateries like Brahmin’s and CTR offer comfort like no other. I’m a sucker for seafood, and every time I am near the coast I’m on the look out for the best fish thalis. Mahesh Lunch Home in Bombay is a must-visit every time I’m in the city. On a recent trip to Kochi, the in-house restaurant at Brunton Boatyard served up the most delicious fresh fish and seafood. Lastly, a good coffee shop will always lure me in. Currently, my favourite is Kala Ghoda Cafe in Bombay.

Alongside these essentials, I always find time to immerse myself in a good book. Some of my all-time favourite reads are:

- Aranyak, by Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay 

- The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World,  by William Dalrymple

- The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams

- Unbound: 2,000 Years of Indian Women’s Writing, by Annie Zaidi

- Midnight’s Children, by Salman Rushdie

- And The Mountains Echoed, by Khaled Hosseini

I navigate the world with my own background score accompanying all my experiences. Music is a constant companion, and my UE Boom speaker travels with me no matter where I go.