Masooma Rizvi | Finely Crafted Journeys

Zoya honours the profound journey of a woman reconnecting with her feminine self through bespoke creations that celebrate her true essence. In our Finely Crafted Journeys column, we share insights from the lives of iconic women who have left an indelible mark on the world.

In this edition, our muse is Dr. Masooma Rizvi, is a distinguished architect, artist, and entrepreneur, celebrated for shaping India’s cultural and architectural landscapes. Her vision shines in iconic projects like the New Parliament artwork, Rashtrapati Bhavan interiors, murals at the Maharishi Valmiki International Ayodhya Airport, and more.

Tell us about your journey.

"When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy." This quote by Rumi encapsulates my journey. Two and a half decades of forging my path have shaped me in ways I never anticipated. With no godfathers, I leaned on persistence, resilience, and belief in my voice, turning challenges into determination. This relentless field has pushed me to evolve, refine my voice, and create spaces that stand the test of time. My work’s true measure lies not in the structures, but in how they live, breathe, and connect with people.

What do you enjoy the most about your craft?

Every day brings a new challenge—a canvas to merge tradition with contemporary expression. My craft isn’t just about designing spaces; it’s about storytelling and reimagining heritage. I love discovering ways to honour timeworn techniques while making them relevant. That reinvention inspires me.

What has your craft taught you about yourself?

The self is fluid, ever-changing, evolving and unfolding, mirroring the essence of Buddhist philosophy. My journey reflects this, with the spaces I create today mirroring who I am now, just as my past work reflected who I was then. Beyond my craft, I embrace many roles—artist, wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend—finding harmony in all.

ZOYA and you...

Like architecture, fine jewelry is more than art—it is a legacy, a testament to enduring craftsmanship and soulful storytelling. Each Zoya creation is a labor of love, designed not only to adorn but to inspire and connect. I am wearing Zoya’s Beyond collection, inspired by the majestic Indus River. Its flowing artistry mirrors my journey—authentic, graceful, and unbounded.