Bhumika Chauhan
In the quiet town of Mulki, nestled in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district, something extraordinary began to take shape back in 1996. It wasn’t just another building or business—it was a vision. One that would go on to redefine how construction could serve not just cities, but communities. That vision belonged to a 20-year-old civil engineer named Mulky Jeevan K Shetty, and it took form as SHARADA ASSOCIATES.
Today, nearly three decades later, his name is synonymous with a brand that merges tradition with technology, aesthetics with engineering, and ambition with humility.
From Print to Pillars: A Family Legacy Reimagined
Jeevan wasn’t born into construction. He grew up around ink and paper. His father ran SHARADA PRINTERS, a respected local printing press founded in 1973. It was a small business with a big heart—one that taught Jeevan the basics of entrepreneurship: discipline, dedication, and staying grounded.
It was also his father who first saw the potential in a career path that led toward building and development. Jeevan took that advice seriously, completing his Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering and a Master’s in Construction Technology, setting the stage for what would soon become his life’s calling.
The decision to start his own firm came early—and with purpose. In February 1996, with more ambition than resources, Jeevan founded SHARADA ASSOCIATES with a clear goal: to contribute to the beauty, infrastructure, and economic upliftment of his hometown.
SHARADA ASSOCIATES: Where Faith Meets Foundation
SHARADA ASSOCIATES wasn’t born to be ordinary. What started as a small consultancy soon evolved into a full-service design and build firm known for something uniquely special—temple construction. It’s a niche that blends art, architecture, and spiritual emotion, and Jeevan mastered it with rare finesse.
But his firm didn’t stop there. SHARADA ASSOCIATES grew to take on civil works, interior design, and timber import operations, bringing the latest technology and eco-conscious materials into every project. From ancient aesthetics to modern techniques, Jeevan found the perfect balance—and that’s what continues to set his firm apart.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond Business
Ask Jeevan what drives him, and you won’t hear talk of profits or market shares. He speaks about people. About building lives along with buildings.
SHARADA ASSOCIATES has become a pillar of opportunity in Dakshina Kannada—creating jobs, empowering youth, and offering internships to students in civil engineering, management, and commerce. For Jeevan, development is not just physical; it’s deeply social.
He’s also been proactive in bridging the gap between academia and industry, giving students the kind of hands-on learning experience that textbooks simply can’t offer.
Every Success Has Its Struggles
Like any entrepreneurial journey, Jeevan’s path wasn’t always smooth. The early years were difficult, marked by intense competition and limited visibility. But instead of cutting corners or playing it safe, he chose a different route: expansion, improvement, and relentless quality control.
His edge? A sharp eye for design. A team that believed in his vision. And the support of his wife, who stood by him during uncertain times. He credits both his family and his failures for teaching him the importance of patience, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
What Makes SHARADA ASSOCIATES Different
In a saturated construction market, SHARADA ASSOCIATES stands out for one reason: its flexibility and reliability. Jeevan and his team don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every project is tailor-made, designed with care, and delivered on time.
Moreover, the firm’s use of eco-friendly materials, modern tools, and aesthetic sensibility helps them craft spaces that are not only structurally sound but also emotionally and culturally resonant.
A Builder With a Vision Beyond Today
As India continues to grow and urbanize, Jeevan sees immense opportunity ahead. SHARADA ASSOCIATES is now gearing up for:
- Expansion into new cities and markets
- Launching projects in the hospitality and trading sectors
- Strengthening its design-build-sell real estate model
- Collaborating on government infrastructure projects
It’s a bold roadmap—but one rooted in years of experience, a strong foundation, and an eye on the future.
Inspired by Greatness: A Tribute to Sir M. Visvesvaraya
Jeevan doesn’t shy away from sharing his inspiration. He speaks passionately about Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the legendary engineer and statesman.
“His work wasn’t just technical—it was transformational,” says Jeevan. “That’s the kind of impact I hope to leave behind. Construction that elevates lives.”
A Message to the Dreamers
To every young person thinking of starting their own business, Jeevan offers honest advice:
“Don’t copy what others are doing. Find your own interest and build your own journey. Learn everything you can—then take the leap.”
It’s not just theory. His life is the perfect example of that philosophy in action.
A Career Marked by Excellence
Jeevan’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. He has received several honors, including:
- The Rashtriya Gaurav Award (2016) — Presented by Dr. Bhishma Narayan Singh
- Sir M. Visvesvaraya Best Engineering National Award — Recognizing innovation in engineering
But for Jeevan, the real reward lies in community smiles, student success stories, and seeing local talent thrive in national projects.
The Final Word: Building with Heart
SHARADA ASSOCIATES isn’t just a construction firm. It’s a symbol of passion, progress, and purpose. And behind it all stands a man who never lost touch with where he came from—even as he reached for greater heights.
In a world that often celebrates speed over soul, Mulky Jeevan K Shetty reminds us that true success is built with vision, values, and a whole lot of heart.
