The Birth of Kawaii Cakes

 Introduction: A Life-Changing Moment

On April 5, 2019, my world changed when my daughter, Azhal Navira, was born. Her unique Tamil name means "Brightest Star in the Universe" (Azhal) and "Paramount" (Navira). I spent five precious months at home with her before returning to my job as a 2nd Officer on a tanker ship. But one phone call from my wife would turn my life upside down, leading me to quit sailing and start my cake shop. 

Life at Sea: Far from Family

Working on a ship is tough. You’re cut off from the world, with no network for days. My usual voyages lasted 4–5 days, but in 2019, I faced my longest journey yet—crossing the Atlantic Ocean. For 20 days, I couldn’t contact my family. When we reached the English Channel, I got a weak signal, but it wasn’t until the Dover Strait that I could finally call my wife.

That call broke my heart. My wife told me, “Azhal said ‘Appa’ for the first time.” I hadn’t heard my daughter call me “Appa” myself—I was thousands of miles away. Instead of joy, I felt worry and sadness. I’d missed such a big moment in her life, and it weighed heavily on me. 

A Sleepless Night and a Bold Decision

That night, I couldn’t sleep. Normally, I’d rest by 9:30 PM (ship time) before my midnight watch. But my mind was racing, thinking about Azhal and the moments I was missing. By 4:45 AM, after my watch, I made a life-changing decision: This would be my last voyage. No matter what, I was done sailing. I wanted to be there for my daughter’s next milestones.

When I reached Rotterdam port and told my wife I was quitting, she was overjoyed. She wanted me home with her and Azhal. Then she asked, “What will you do next?” I had no answer. Quitting my well-paying job as a 2nd Mate was scary—I had no plan. But her happiness gave me the courage to move forward.

Facing Doubts and Opposition

Quitting wasn’t easy. I loved sailing, but I hated being away from my family. I thought about teaching at a maritime institute, which could pay ₹40,000–₹45,000 a month. My wife supported the idea, giving me my first spark of hope. But deep down, I didn’t want to work under anyone. I’d seen too much office politics on ships, in companies, and even in colleges where I’d lectured. I wanted freedom—to start my own business.

When I shared my decision to quit sailing with friends, family, and relatives, almost everyone opposed it. They called it a mistake, warning I’d regret leaving a stable career. Only my wife and sister stood by me. I didn’t let the criticism stop me. Some decisions—like choosing my career, my wife, and now quitting—were mine alone.

A New Dream During a Global Crisis

As my contract neared its end, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Seafarers worldwide were stuck on ships, unable to sign off. I spent nearly 11 months and 10 days onboard, far longer than planned. During this time, I explored business ideas: a salon, money exchange, hotel, or a cake shop. I didn’t overthink it. Within a month, I decided to start a cake shop with my childhood friend, Ramanna, who’s like a brother to me.

Naming My Dream: Kawaii Cakes

I wanted a name as unique as my daughter’s. After much thought, I chose Kawaii Cakes. “Kawaii” is a Japanese word meaning “cute” or “adorable,” perfect for a shop creating joyful, custom cakes. But just like my decision to quit sailing, no one liked the name. Friends and family said it was too unfamiliar. Still, I was 100% sure—this was it. Just as I gave Azhal a one-of-a-kind name, I gave my shop a name no one had heard before.

The Leap of Faith

When I finally signed off after nearly a year at sea, I was ready to build Kawaii Cakes. It wasn’t easy starting a business from scratch, but my wife’s support and Ramanna’s partnership kept me going. Today, Kawaii Cakes is more than a shop—it’s a celebration of family, love, and chasing dreams. Every cake we bake carries the joy of new beginnings.

Join Our Sweet Journey

From crossing oceans to crafting cakes, my journey has been full of surprises. At Kawaii Cakes, we pour our heart into every order, whether it’s a birthday cake or a wedding masterpiece. Want to taste the magic? Visit us at www.kawaiicakes.in or drop by our shop. Share your story with us—what inspired you to chase your dreams?