Mangaluru: The Bhandary community on the Karnataka coast has been doing hairdressing for a long time. They learned this skill from their ancestors and passed it down through generations. One important person in the community, Gulabi Amma, encouraged them to continue the tradition.
Dr Shivarama K. Bhandary Karkala was inspired by the hairdressing community and to fulfil his mother’s wish, in 1988, he started Shiva’s Institute in Mumbai, which became a successful business. Over the years, they opened more hair salons and training centres. Shiva’s Academy was established in 2009 to teach young people how to become professional hairstylists. Now, in 2022, Shiva’s Salute organizations are leading the way, and Shiva’s group has been serving the community for three decades.
Shiva’s mother believed in helping the community by supporting education and health. Following her advice, Dr Shivarama K. Bhandary started vocational education at the academy. They teach not only hairdressing but also other skills like hair care, skincare, makeup, and more. Most of their students not only find jobs but also become successful entrepreneurs. Shiva’s institution is known for its unique approach and ability to predict the future success of its students.
Shiva’s Academy is managed by the Gulabi Krishna Bhandary Charitable Trust and has certifications from renowned organizations like Tony & Guy and Vidal Sassoon Institute. They have also been chosen by Earth Academy in London to be an official training organization in Maharashtra. Shiva’s Academies are currently running in Andheri and Dombivili.
Shiva’s Academy has collaborated with Mangalore University and received approval from the University Grants Commission. They have expanded their academic activities and opened Shiva’s International Institute of Professional Innovations (SIIPI). SIIPI offers degree programs in Hair and Beauty Therapy and Designing and Treating Hair. They claim to provide job assurance for vocational graduates.
With Mangalore University’s certificate and affiliation, SIIPI College plans to expand its services to Karkala and other districts in the state. They also plan to set up hairdressing training centres to provide opportunities for students seeking professional courses.
