Makkusé by Anushka: Tradition with a Twist

People
Life Style
The Buzz Nepal
July 17 , 2025

From Miss World to dessert visionary, Anushka’s journey blends culture, commerce, and courage.

Turning Heritage into Innovation

Anushka Shrestha’s professional background is as diverse as it is impressive. Ranging from finance and banking to international education, fast food, media, and the world of pageantry. But what truly sets her apart is how she has used this multifaceted experience to build something both nostalgic and revolutionary. Makkusé, a premium Nepali dessert brand dedicated to reviving traditional sweets with a modern twist.

A proud commerce graduate and Halwai by heart, Anushka has channeled her expertise in problem solving and strategic thinking into a business that celebrates Nepali heritage, one sweet at a time.

The Spark Behind Makkusé

Following her representation of Nepal at Miss World 2019 in London, Anushka returned home with a deeper appreciation for her roots. Inspired by her mentors and peers, she was determined to spotlight the richness of Nepali culture.

The idea for Makkusé began with humble curiosity and a dinner table conversation. One evening, as she savored Pustakari and Gundpak, she asked her mother about the distinctive taste. Her mother casually responded, “Newa ma makkusé chwon bhancha.” That simple phrase clicked and Makkusé was born.

Navigating Life in the Spotlight and the Startup World

Making the leap from a public persona to a business leader hasn’t been without challenges. Anushka shares that while her background brought valuable exposure and skills, it also invited intense scrutiny, especially as she entered an unconventional sector like traditional sweets.

Despite shifting public expectations, she remains grounded in her core values; accountability to her team, community, vendors, and customers.

“Launching Makkusé revealed the vast untapped potential within Nepal’s business landscape and this space holds exciting possibilities for growth and innovation.”
Anushka Shrestha

The Evolving Landscape for Women Entrepreneurs

Anushka is optimistic about the increasing presence of women in Nepal’s business ecosystem. This change, she believes, is fueled by capability and perseverance and not gender.

Still, she acknowledges that true equality is a work in progress. Women have come far, but there’s more to do. The women leading today are laying the foundation for others to follow.

For the Dreamers and Doers: Anushka’s Advice

To young Nepali entrepreneurs, Anushka offers heartfelt wisdom:
Understand your business intimately. Each venture has its unique journey, so avoid comparing yourself to others. Stay focused on your vision but remain flexible, adaptation is essential. Most importantly, be kind to yourself.

“Building a business in Nepal isn’t easy. You’ll face setbacks. People may not always understand your vision. But if you stay sincere and treat every challenge as a learning curve, the growth will follow, not just in your business, but in yourself.”