Meet Our Team
We have a vibrant, multi-disciplinary assembly of Psychologists and Management Grads
We have a vibrant, multi-disciplinary assembly of Psychologists and Management Grads, Engineers and Writers and many more – unified by their curiosity and interest in understanding consumer minds.
A K Balaji Prasad
Managing Director
PGDM from IIM Calcutta with over 20 years of experience, Balaji started with MARG, Bombay before becoming the Branch Head at MBA (now Gallup) in 1991, GM at SAMIR – Mudra in 1993 before setting up Drshti in 1994.
A much sought after strategist, his perspectives and acumen guide the business directions provided for each study that Drshti undertakes. He is also an acknowledged expert in areas such as Conjoint and multivariate analysis. He is the primary developer of InfoMonsta, involved in the speccing and in the evolution of the offering. He is an avid observer of social change and evolving technologies and is a natural innovator in the space.
Shobha Prasad
Director
Shobha started her career at MARG, Bombay about 2 decades ago before moving into advertising in account planning and client management at Sista’s Advertising (now Saatchi & Saatchi) and O & M respectively. She returned to research thereafter to start the qualitative division at Drshti.
Shobha has presented award winning papers at the ESOMAR and MRSI conferences and is known for her thought provoking and often disruptive papers. Her natural interest is in the areas of culture change and impact on behaviour. Keynote speaker at Australian Marketing and Social Research (AMSRS) Conference, Melbourne 2017
Now a published cartoonist with a regular column on Research World, and ESOMAR publication. She is the creator of SHOBSERVATORY for her range of cartoon observations.
Srinivasan Raman
Director
Srinivasan is one of the early leading qualitative researchers of India, with significant exposure across various research tools (qualitative, quantitative, ethnography, semiotics and cultural research). Formerly President at Pathfinders, the research division of Lowe Lintas, after a 17 year stint at ORG-MARG A C Nielsen, he spent more than a decade at Hansa as Executive Director, in charge of all Custom Research Business in India. Srinivasan created a successful interplay of qualitative insights into the traditional quantitative measurement tools and extensive experience in idea generation and consumer insights research, advertising research, brand equity.
Rishabh Rajput
Senior Research Associate
Dedicated Data Science professional, a proud alumnus of Christ University. I seamlessly blend a passion for Anime and EDM with a keen aptitude for numbers and puzzles. Committed to staying at the forefront of technology.
Diksha Raut
Senior Research Associate
With a passion in consumer behaviour and exploring the intricate workings of markets, Diksha brings a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the dynamics that shape consumer choices. Outside of work, she is interested in fashion and travelling. In her free time, you can often find Diksha exploring new fashion trends, places to trek, and experimenting with food.
Ankita Singh
Associate Research Director
Ankita is driven by her passion for delving into diverse cultures, and her innate curiosity to comprehend consumer psyche has propelled her to gain expertise in the field of ethnography.
Holding a PGDM from the Goa Institute of Management, she seeks solace in Himalayan hikes to rejuvenate her spirit. An avid reader at heart, Ankita finds therapeutic joy in playing with colours on canvas and expressing herself through dance.
Lipsa Acharya
Senior Research Associate
A professional overthinker, amateur artist and someone who enjoys long romantic walks to the fridge. Extremely curious to understand why humans are the way they are, though prefers pets over hoomans.
Kavita Ghosh
Senior Research Director
With a keen nose for culture Kavita picks upon all those little cultural quirks that may escape the average eye. She loves travelling to new places, experiencing different cultures and food and has a rich trove of anecdotes from all her experiences.
Vanessa Gracias
Associate Research Director
Vanessa describes herself as an extroverted introvert! She has an MBA degree in Marketing, from SJIM, Bangalore. A passionate foodie, she loves to try out new cuisines and this love for food has influenced some of her job choices as well… Vanessa loves to travel and explore and is always looking for a new adventure.
Dinesh D
Associate Research Director
Dinesh loves exploring into human minds through his qualitative research skills. He excels at asking the right questions and analysing the data. He likes working on challenging and learning-oriented projects.
He has many hobbies and experiences. He is a self-taught artist, a tech enthusiast, a biker, a gardener, and a space science lover. He is fascinated by the mysteries of the universe.
An MBA gold medalist in Marketing from Ramaiah, B’lore, he is a unique and diverse professional who brings creativity and curiosity to his work. He loves collaborating and sharing ideas with others. He is excited to work with you and make a positive impact on the world
Shrithi Shetty
Senior Research Manager
An ex-journalist by profession, Shrithi has a natural ability to connect and engage with people. This along with a strong passion for understanding consumer behaviour and an innate curiosity about different cultures and choices makes consumer insights not only a professional interest but a personal fascination.
Beyond the professional realm, I enjoy exploring new destinations and enjoying the culture and food of that region. A good aromatic strong coffee and my family helps me sail through any difficult situation.
Urvi Sanghavi
Senior Research Manager
Has a knack for engaging with consumers: Through insightful conversations and meticulous analysis, she uncovers valuable insights that shapes strategic decisions. She thrives in collaborative environments, where diverse perspectives merge to uncover comprehensive and meaningful market insights. If market research is food to Urvi, travelling is a dessert. And speaking of desserts, she gives her heart to people who bring her food.
Chandralekha Bania
Senior Research Manager
Chandralekha is a cat mom with a penchant for unravelling the mysteries behind the what, whys, and hows of every aspect of life—both professionally and personally. She not only deciphers market nuances but also paints life’s canvas with a colourful blend of curiosity and compassion. When not delving into the intricacies of consumer behaviour, you’ll find her harmonizing melodies, orchestrating beats on the drums, and bringing life to canvases through sketching and painting. Beyond the analytical mind lies a sensitive and empathetic soul, someone who holds dear the bonds with family and friends.
Vinay Naik
Research Manager
Vinay is a statistics graduate with MBA in Marketing. He’s passionate about learning and understanding marketing in depth. When asked why a Statistician is doing Qual Research he says, “Some stories are so powerful that you don’t need numbers”. When not working, you will find him reading poetry, drinking Coffee and staring at the blue skies.
Prerna Ankur
Associate Research Manager
A nomad who enjoys searching for answers of the unknown. Exploring the secrets of different places fuel her energy.
Swarali Pawar
Associate Research Manager
Swarali is a storyteller with an MBA in Media and Communication, blending business acumen with a creative flair. Her passion extends beyond the screen; her voice harmonizes with melodies as she explore the realms of singing, and her mind delves into the boundless worlds of literature through avid reading. Podcasting is her canvas, where she paints vibrant discussions on topics close to her heart. Beyond the surface, she is an enthusiastic researcher, driven by a relentless curiosity to uncover diverse stories that shape the world. In this symphony of interests, she finds her rhythm, seamlessly weaving a tapestry that reflects the multifaceted facets of her personality.
When not immersed in work, she finds solace in the enchanting realms of “anime and Mangas”, discovering unique narratives that fuel her imaginative spirit.
Aditi Sherigar
Associate Research Manger
With a PGDM from SIES College, Mumbai, her curiosity and desire to understand varied consumers is what has drawn her towards Market Research. Being a foodie, she loves to experiment with different cuisines and enjoy the process of discovering unique flavours. She find joy in travelling and exploring new places and immersing herself in different cultures. Lastly, Yoga has been an integral part of her life and she truly values the calmness and discipline it brings.
Aditya Pradhan
Senior Research Associate
Forget love, I usually fall a lot while playing football. Apple products are my first love, research is second. Very particular about typos and my sneakers. Also notice how I love love a lot.
Pravar Patil
Research Associate
Pravar is passionate about the intricate worlds of anime and movies. Beyond his screen time, he finds joy in expressing himself through drawing, weaving creativity into his daily life. Dedication is the cornerstone of his work ethos, and he brings a unique, creative perspective to every task. Beyond professional pursuits, he is genuinely curious about people—he enjoys understanding their stories, making connections, and learning from diverse experiences.
Anushka Kakkar
Research Associate
A beacon of joy, Anushka exhibits an artful precision, approaching tasks with a specific flair. She finds harmony in playing lawn tennis and travel. Her inviting spirit and easy going smile creates a warm atmosphere, making others feel at home in her company.
Vijay Parekh
Senior Research Manger
With a discerning focus on live artist performances and web series, Vijay has a talent for uncovering the hidden gems that often go unnoticed. His passion for exploration extends beyond discovering new places; he is fascinated by the rich history each destination holds. As an enthusiastic solo traveller, Vijay embarks on journeys to delve into the cultural tapestry of various locales. A connoisseur of not only adventure but also gastronomic delights, he has an undeniable fondness for savouring diverse culinary experiences along his travels.
Rinku Raorane
Manager –
Project Management Team
Rinku is a Punjabi by birth and heart. Having been married into a Maharashtrian family for over 2 decades, she is also a hardcore Maharashtrian.
She is a fun-loving person who likes to make friends, enjoys singing & loves travelling. She likes to explore new places and plans a long trip when possible. Rinku loves visiting temples when on her trips. Sev-Puri & Pani-Puri are Rinku’s weak points. In her 25yrs of research journey she has learnt patience and handling people. You will always find her with a smile on her face.
Akanksha
Associate-Research support and accounts
Meet Akansha, the dynamic force at Drshti! Whether mapping out new cities or harmonizing project timelines, she is your go-to. With a passion for growth and a soundtrack for success, she is always tuned in to support her team’s journey.
Susan D’Souza
HR Manager
Susan has a master’s in psychology and is currently pursuing training in Transactional Analysis. She started her journey as a Qualitative researcher and has since worked in different roles including a trainer and counsellor. She enjoys art and craft, and crochet. She loves travelling and exploring different places and their cultures.
Ketaki Thorat
Senior HR Executive
A people’s person who loves to connect with people on stories and small joys. Her friends describe her as a bundle of energy. With a master’s degree in human resources, Ketaki is enthusiastic about helping people around her grow every day. When not at work, Ketaki likes travelling, painting, baking or just enjoying a hot cup of tea!
Jacintha Jaiswal
Administration Manager
Always gentle and smiling, she keeps the office ticking, is the go-to person for all sorts of odds things. Watching TV, NEWS, Cooking Experiments are her favourite pastimes!