Bhumika Chauhan
In the coastal town of Mulki, where tradition runs deep and culture holds strong, a quiet revolution began nearly three decades ago. It didn’t roar or demand attention. It built itself slowly—one structure, one vision, one life at a time.
At the heart of it stands Mulky Jeevan K Shetty, founder of SHARADA ASSOCIATES—a man who saw beyond cement and scaffolding, and chose instead to build communities, preserve heritage, and empower the next generation.
His story isn’t just about construction. It’s about conviction, courage, and the kind of success that’s rooted in purpose.
Beginnings: A Seed of Purpose
Born into a family where values mattered more than volume, Jeevan grew up under the guidance of his father, the founder of SHARADA PRINTERS (established in 1973). From the whirring machines of the print shop, he learned life’s earliest lessons—dedication, integrity, and service.
It was his father who sowed the first seeds of his future, encouraging him to study civil engineering not as a means to a career, but as a way to contribute meaningfully to their community.
Jeevan pursued a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering and went on to complete a Master’s in Construction Technology. But he wasn’t chasing a job. He was preparing for a mission.
In February 1996, at just 20 years old, he founded SHARADA ASSOCIATES—with a vision to design, build, and uplift.
SHARADA ASSOCIATES: Crafting Culture with Concrete
What started as a small consultancy in his hometown soon evolved into a full-fledged civil construction and interior design company—known especially for its specialization in temple architecture.
At a time when modern buildings dominated skylines, Jeevan carved out a niche that honored tradition while embracing technology. His firm began building temples—not just with brick and mortar, but with cultural consciousness and spiritual sensitivity.
Over the years, SHARADA ASSOCIATES expanded its offerings, incorporating civil works, interiors, timber imports, and sustainable building practices. What remained constant was its soul—a commitment to quality, timeliness, and meaningful impact.
Creating More Than Buildings
For Jeevan, the true success of SHARADA ASSOCIATES lies beyond its project portfolio. It lives in the people empowered, the students mentored, and the community enriched.
The company has become a hub for employment generation and education-industry collaboration, regularly training students in civil engineering, management, and commerce. By bridging the gap between classrooms and real-world challenges, Jeevan ensures that his legacy will live on in every young professional the company helps shape.
Turning Struggles Into Strengths
Jeevan’s journey, like any worth telling, had its battles. Local competition, limited early visibility, and the pressure of growth could have derailed his efforts. But instead of retreating, he recalibrated.
He expanded his project reach, adopted cutting-edge techniques, and continuously improved quality standards. Through it all, he drew strength from his father’s goodwill and his wife’s unwavering support—quiet forces that powered him through moments of doubt.
“Struggles aren’t roadblocks,” he says, “they’re reminders that every foundation needs to be tested before it can hold something great.”
Standing Apart in a Crowded Industry
In a market flooded with firms chasing speed and scale, SHARADA ASSOCIATES chooses something different: customization, quality, and conscience.
Its greatest asset? Flexibility—adapting to the unique needs of each client while delivering every project with eco-conscious materials, thoughtful design, and technical excellence. The firm is known for honoring timelines, ensuring client satisfaction, and integrating tradition into modern frameworks.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
The future of SHARADA ASSOCIATES is as ambitious as its beginnings were humble. Under Jeevan’s leadership, the company is poised for strategic expansion—moving into:
- Property development through a design-build-sell model
- Hospitality and trading ventures
- Government infrastructure projects
- Broadening its footprint across new cities and regions
The goal is not just growth, but responsible growth—building in a way that continues to serve people and preserve culture.
A Life Inspired by Legacy
Ask Jeevan who inspires him, and he names Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the visionary engineer who built not just cities but national pride.
Jeevan sees himself walking a similar path—not in scale, perhaps, but certainly in spirit. Like his idol, he believes in using engineering as a tool for progress, not just profit.
“Construction is not about creating something big,” he reflects. “It’s about creating something that matters.”
Wisdom for the Next Generation
To the aspiring entrepreneur standing where he once stood, Jeevan offers this advice:
“Don’t try to replicate someone else’s success. Understand your strengths, gain real-world experience, and let your passion drive your purpose. It’s not about starting big. It’s about starting right.”
Recognized, Respected, Remembered
His principles haven’t gone unnoticed. Over the years, Jeevan has received numerous honors, including:
- The Rashtriya Gaurav Award (2016) – Presented by Dr. Bhishma Narayan Singh
- Sir M. Visvesvaraya Best Engineering National Award – Bangalore
But for Jeevan, awards are merely reflections. The true reward is in the satisfaction of a job well done, the pride of a completed project, and the lives touched along the way.
Final Word: A Legacy Built to Last
Mulky Jeevan K Shetty isn’t just building temples, houses, or offices—he’s building a story. One of discipline, devotion, and deep-rooted dignity.
With every pillar SHARADA ASSOCIATES raises, he uplifts not just structures, but society. And long after the walls he builds begin to weather, his vision will continue to stand tall—etched not in stone, but in spirit.
