ABOUT DR BHAVESH BHATIA
Bhavesh Bhatia – The Candle Man of India
Bhavesh Bhatia is a living embodiment of determination, innovation, and social entrepreneurship. Despite being 100% visually impaired, he has defied all odds to become a world-renowned candle artist, entrepreneur, author, poet, shayari writer, trekker, sportsman, and motivational speaker. For over 31 years, he has been famously known as the Candle Man of India.
What makes Bhavesh Ji's journey truly remarkable is that he has developed a world-unique skill: the creation of intricately designed wax statues and candles something no one else in the world has achieved, especially without sight. Starting with just one design, he used his imagination and touch to develop over 10,000+ candle designs, earning him a place in the record books.
Unique Achievement: Creating intricately designed wax statues and over 10,000 candle designs without sight - a testament to human potential and artistic excellence.
The Journey
Starting his candle business from scratch in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, Dr. Bhatia has grown it into a global symbol of resilience and innovation. His journey exemplifies how determination and skill can transform challenges into extraordinary achievements.
Recognition & Awards
Social Impact
Dr. Bhatia has empowered over 10,700 visually impaired and differently-abled individuals with skill training and employment opportunities. His mission transforms Divyang individuals from perceived liabilities to valuable contributors, aligning with 'Vocal for Local', 'Skill India', and 'Make in India' campaigns.
Transforming challenges into opportunities, one candle at a time. Empowering the differently-abled community to shine their light and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Journey of a Visionary
Dr. Bhavesh Bhatia, born 100% blind suffering from Macular degeneration, grew up in Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra. He completed his education from Gondiya Nagpur till MA in Arts in normal school with help from his mother who used to help him by reading the books. After losing his mother to cancer and facing his father’s prolonged illness suffering from schizophrenia, he became the family’s sole provider.
Refusing to accept defeat, he trained in candle-making at the National Association for the Blind (NAB) in 1994. He collected funds from massage which he learnt from NAB and from 5-10 rs per massage he earned, he started saving for his candle workshop.
Using savings, he bought one mold and 5 kg of wax—and began selling hand-poured candles from a rented handcart for rs. 50 per day in front of Holy Cross Church in Mahabaleshwar, setting aside just ₹25 daily to buy more materials.
When funds were scarce, a NAB-backed loan of ₹5,000 and helped him purchase 15 kg of wax, handcart supplies, and establish his candle-making venture. The loan which he returned later with interest.
Partnership, Love & Persistence
A Mumbai-based customer, Neeta, spotted his handcart, empathized with his dedication, and eventually married him—overcoming familial resistance. Their bond became a lifelong partnership in business and social change.
Bhavesh’s drive wasn’t fueled by external pity—it was fueled by purpose. He consistently refused offers of easy money—even rejecting a ₹51 lakh factory proposal from Reliance—favoring sustainable, meaningful growth that would empower others.
From Street Seller to Social Enterprise
Over nearly three decades, Sunrise Candles has grown from a lone handcart into an Social enterprise providing free skill training and employment opportunities visually impaired and divyang benefiacieries.
They now produce more than 10,700 designer, scented, gel, floating, jar, block, and various designs of candles, door toran, agarbatti, garlands, etc
Accolades & Advocacy
Dr. Bhatia has earned national recognition and awards:
· President’s National Awards (2014 for self-employment, 2016 as best employer of differently-abled persons, 2019 as Role Model of Divyangjan)
· Gold medals in Paralympic sports including shot put, discus throw, and javelin
· Founded Oshonic Vision for the Blind Welfare Society in 2012 to further uplift visually impaired individuals
· His story inspired many—including Anand Mahindra, who praised Bhavesh’s philosophy:
“So what if you can't see the world? Do something so that the world can see you.”
Our Mission & Vision
Beyond light, our candles spread courage, independence, and the glow of hope.
Join Our Journey →🌟 Our Mission
To empower visually impaired artisans who are into begging or sitting idle and waiting for work opportunities to stand on their feet through sustainable livelihoods and craftsmanship—lighting their lives along with homes
🌍 Our Vision
To empower more and more blind and divyang persons.
WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE
Candles That Complement Your Home
Tara Candles bring to you handmade, long-lasting & exclusive range of candles infusing love & light in your life.