From Kolkata To Mumbai: How Darshika Thacker Carved Her Path To Success

"India has emerged as a preferred destination for multinational companies to do business here, with CAs forming the backbone of this growth. It remains a rigorous journey that many women have historically hesitated to pursue, especially at a time when professional education was not even a consideration for women and was always foregone for traditional roles and a hesitancy towards entering a predominantly male industry," Darshika shares.

Turning Dreams Into Reality

Born and raised in Kolkata, Darshika had an early inclination towards numbers and finance. Pursuing her bachelor's degree in commerce from the University of Calcutta, she soon found herself drawn to taxation. "During my articleship, I was inclined towards tax consulting and found that in those days, there was a common misconception that all accountants are tax planners, many professionals are qualified to provide compliance services but very few specialize in a niche tax consulting practice which is a universe of its own. I saw this opportunity to develop a niche tax consulting practice" she recalls.

Her articleship with D.B. Desai & Associates at Kolkata played an important role in moulding her understanding of taxation and financial consultancy. "D.B. Desai & Associates was one of the big Kolkata-based firms apart from the Big Four. This is where I actually developed my skills," she adds.

With her qualification as a Chartered Accountant, Darshika then undertook a bold step - moving to Mumbai, the financial capital of India, to expand her career prospects. The transition involved taking up lead roles in finance & treasury divisions with some of the leading companies to name a few, Yuksom Breweries, and Indian Infoline among others.

Darshika explains, “Working with various industries provided me exposure and opportunity to understand the nuances across industries. As rewarding as it was, it also made me realize that I had gained the experience and expertise to build something of my own, a practice where I could shape the vision, drive the strategy, and create a more personalized approach to client service. That clarity was the turning point for me," Darshika shares.

Taking The First Step Towards Success

In 2004, Darshika started on her own as an entrepreneur by setting up Darshika Thacker & Associates. "The decision wasn't easy. But I felt like starting something of my own—a company where I could use my skills without boundaries and so I took the plunge," she states.

The early years were tough, but her expertise in taxation and advisory helped her build a strong client base. In 2012, she founded a partnership firm, Thacker & Associates, Chartered Accountants, to provide a wide range of services to cater to M&A advisory practice by inducting senior professionals to provide expertise with a more personalised approach. "Looking back, I never saw being a woman as a disadvantage. If anything, it motivated me to work harder," she asserts.

Darshika Thacker Stands Tall As The Beacon Of Inspiration

Today, Darshika Thacker serves as an Independent Director at DOMS Industries Limited, a leading brand in the stationery and art supply industry. "DOMS is an incredible company that has redefined the Indian stationery market. Being part of DOMS and its IPO journey has been an enriching experience—it's a brand with a strong vision, and I’m proud to contribute to its growth," she adds.

While her career demanded long hours and extensive commitment, Darshika also prioritized finding a work-life balance. "I took a short break when I got married, but I never thought of giving up my career," she shares. It is this ability to juggle her personal and professional commitments that has become a defining feature in her journey. Her journey has been one of consistent growth, proving that dedication and skill can break through any glass ceiling.

Darshika is an inspiration to young women who are following the chartered accountancy and taxation career. From an ambitious student in Kolkata to a highly respected industry professional in Mumbai, her journey is evidence that success is assured if one holds on with determination, knowledge, and self-confidence.

"For any woman who wants to pursue this profession, I would tell them—never lose faith in yourself. The obstacles will be there, but the possibilities will be there too. If you are hardworking and earnest nobody can deter you," she says.

Darshika Thacker’s story is not just about professional success—it’s about breaking barriers, staying true to one's passion, and proving that determination can take you anywhere you aspire to be.