Of Heritage & Healing

My journey into Ayurveda started before I can fully remember. But it took cancer at the age of 44, to bring me back to my heritage of Ayurveda.

My connection to Ayurveda is deeply rooted. From my birth, Ayurveda was in the mustard oil foot and chest rubs from my grandmother, the warm herb-infused scalp massages from my mother, and the turmeric and sandalwood masks we used, that I thought that was just a normal, everyday affair.

I come from a lineage of healers. My grandmother was an Ayurvedic doctor who quietly served her community despite the restrictions of a conservative Muslim household. My mother went on to open the first Ayurvedic spa in Bangladesh, helping thousands of people address their skin and hair concerns. I lived and breathed Ayurveda without the understanding of its significance, and like many, I lost touch with it as I built a career and life abroad.

In 2019, I was living in Nairobi, Kenya, working for the United Nations. I was juggling a demanding job with frequent travel while raising three kids. When I first felt a dull ache in my breast, I almost ignored it—like so many other signs from my body. But within 30 minutes of walking into the hospital, I was told I likely had cancer. My world turned upside down.

Treatment began immediately. So did the side effects. After 14 months of life-saving, but aggressive therapies, I was left depleted—physically, mentally, emotionally. That’s when I turned back to Ayurveda. Desperate to heal and nourish my body, skin, and spirit, I returned to the wisdom of nature I had grown up with. And the results were remarkable.

Over the next four years, I dove deep into study and research, earning multiple certifications in natural skincare formulation and Ayurvedic practices. I experimented, tested, and slowly, the idea for SHAI was born.

SHAI—short for Shabnam’s Ayurvedic Inspiration—is my way of honoring both where I come from and where I’ve been. It’s a modern Ayurvedic skincare brand rooted in ancestral wisdom, elevated by cutting-edge botanical science. Our products are designed to be active, effective, and transformative—yet always 100% natural, gentle, and safe.

Today, as a formulator and founder, nothing brings me more joy than seeing people reconnect with their skin, their wellness, and the power of nature. SHAI isn’t just skincare—it’s a return to trust. In yourself. In healing. In nature’s brilliance.

Thank you for being here, and for letting SHAI be a part of your journey. 
All the very best,