At 61, Rita Shah is a force of nature—a woman who turned life’s challenges into a vibrant tapestry of triumphs, proving that a great piece of workwear and a bold spirit can redefine any stage of life. Once an “unknown” homemaker battling obesity and arthritis, she shed 22 kilograms through sheer willpower, mastering 800 squats at home during Covid and later thriving post-knee replacement. But Rita didn’t stop there. She embraced salsa, kathak, singing, acting, yoga, and the keyboard, gracing five stage shows and earning distinctions in kathak and singing. From ramp walks for Orra Diamonds to features on Gujarati Colors’ United States of Gujarat and Illuminati Magazine, Rita’s zest for life shines bright. Daily auditions fuel her dream of becoming an actress or model, while words like “Diva,” “Inspirational,” and “Role Model” follow her wherever she goes. Here’s her story, straight from the heart.
Q: Can you share one significant bias or stereotype you’ve faced at work?
“I didn’t face bias in a traditional workplace because I was a homemaker, but society often assumes a woman my age should slow down. I flipped that script—age is just a number, and I’m proof you can start anew anytime.”
Q: How did you challenge or overcome it?
“I didn’t wait for permission to rewrite my story. When Covid hit, I turned home into a gym. Post-surgery, I danced my way back to strength. I challenged the idea that life ends at 60 by living louder, bolder, and brighter, proving it’s never too late to shine.”
Q: Did your personal style or wardrobe play a role in helping you project confidence or authority during that journey?
“Absolutely! Your personal style is your voice before you even speak. Whether I’m in a kathak costume or strutting a ramp, my wardrobe reflects my spirit—vibrant, fearless, and unapologetic. It’s the armor of confidence I wear every day.”
Your Message to Other Women
Q: What advice would you give to women starting their careers today?
“Embrace every step—success or failure—with open arms. When you begin something new, know it’s a 50-50 chance, but persistence is your power. Keep sowing effort like seeds; the harvest may take years, but oh, how sweet the fruit will be. Karm kiye ja—keep going!”
Q: What does ‘power dressing’ mean to you personally?
“To me, power dressing is the confidence in your stride and the pride in your heart. It’s not just clothes—it’s the way you carry yourself, head high, radiating strength and grace wherever you go.”
Q: In one line, what does ‘breaking the bias’ mean to you?
“Breaking the bias is daring to dance to your own rhythm, defying what society expects and creating your own extraordinary path.”
What’s Next for You
Q: What’s a personal or professional goal you’re working toward right now?
“I’m chasing fame and fulfillment through my passions—be it acting, modeling, or dancing. I want the world to know my name, not for vanity, but to inspire others to live big, no matter their age or stage.”
Rita’s journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. At 61, she’s not just living, she’s thriving, reminding us all that it’s now or never to chase what sets us free. Catch more of her spark at our Workwear Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making webinar—because inspiration like this deserves to be shared!
Style It with Indyvarna Experts: Rita’s Pick
Rita’s choice—the Black Solid Blazer with Stylish Motif—is a timeless piece from workwear by Indyvarna. Our experts suggest pairing it with a crisp white shirt and tailored black trousers for a commanding office look. Add gold hoop earrings and sleek heels for a touch of elegance. For a casual twist, layer it over a fitted tee and jeans, letting the motif pop against denim. This versatile formal workwear staple transitions effortlessly from the boardroom to spotlight—just like Rita herself!
