With 25 years of experience, Kamlesh Sen has transformed his salon into a thriving enterprise, earning accolades in makeup and hairstyling competitions. Recognised for his expertise, he was appointed as a national trainer by a leading beauty association. He represented India in a pro-fashion haircut competition and clinched the fourth position globally.

Kamlesh Sen is an entrepreneur and the founder of Champion Salon and Spa in Udaipur.

Kamlesh won a makeup competition held in Udaipur in 2011. He also won a bronze medal at the Asia level in Taiwan in a Hands Only Haircut Competition in 2013. Subsequently, he participated in a competition in Malaysia, securing the fifth position in Classic Haircuts. Additionally, he achieved fifth place in Fade Haircuts in online competitions worldwide.

Recognised for his expertise, he was appointed as a National Trainer by a leading beauty association. In a pro-fashion haircut competition, he represented India and clinched the fourth position globally, a feat that fills him with pride, although he expresses regret over the limited participation of Indians in such contests. Kamlesh credits the unwavering support and motivation from the President and General Secretary of the All India Hair and Beauty Association for his success.

Hailing from a village near the city, he came to Udaipur 25 years ago, where he initially took various jobs before venturing into entrepreneurship with his own salon. In the year 2000, Kamlesh established Champion Salon, which, after two decades of dedication and perseverance, has emerged as a leading establishment in Udaipur.

Initially driven by the need to support his family financially, Kamlesh found himself drawn to the salon profession over time. Attending seminars and staying updated with industry trends and techniques, he realised the vast potential within the beauty industry. Today, his profession has evolved into a passion as he endeavours to provide metropolitan-level services locally, fostering connections with numerous clients whose satisfaction brings him joy and fulfilment.

Reflecting on his journey, Kamlesh recalls a childhood memory where, despite being a bright student, he was often labelled as a future barber by his teacher. Rather than discouraging him, such criticisms became his motivation, shaping his love for his work and lifestyle.

Throughout his life, Kamlesh has encountered numerous challenges, including financial crises. However, with unwavering determination and the support of his loved ones, he has turned his dreams into reality.

Kamlesh believes that any challenge can be overcome by sharing it with family or friends. When he embarked on his salon venture, it required funding. With the support of his loved ones, he successfully launched his business, transforming it into a thriving enterprise.

Hard work and honesty are crucial in meeting the needs and desires of clients, according to Kamlesh. He is deeply passionate about his work and constantly strives for innovation, considering himself his own competitor. Although he enjoys reading books, Kamlesh regrets not being able to devote much time to it due to his busy schedule.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Kamlesh's life, leading to financial struggles for him and his team. However, they received valuable training from the All India Hair and Beauty Association on operating safely during the pandemic. Kamlesh's salon strictly adhered to COVID guidelines, prioritising the safety of staff and clients with measures like use of sanitizers and glove-wearing. Despite the challenges, Kamlesh found solace in spending time with his family during the pandemic's disruptions. Now, as things return to normalcy, he feels confident in resuming his work with renewed vigour, acknowledging both the positives and negatives of the pandemic experience.

Kamlesh advises aspiring stylists to acquire extensive knowledge, emphasising the abundant opportunities for growth and success in the glamour industry. Working with celebrities and participating in international competitions, where one can represent their company, are some of the exciting prospects the field offers.

Kamlesh believes that individuals can have multiple role models as they journey through life. Initially, his elder brother served as his inspiration, followed by Javed Habib. Over time, his role models have evolved, with recent admiration for the work of Enrich, a hairdresser from Poland.

Given the opportunity to travel back in time through a time machine, Kamlesh would choose to revisit his childhood, cherishing the simplicity and joy of that time despite its challenges.

Kamlesh believes that both education and experience hold equal importance in achieving success in life. While education provides essential knowledge, experience plays a vital role in refining skills and personal growth.

Regarding leadership, Kamlesh acknowledges that some individuals possess innate leadership qualities, while others acquire them through learning and experience. He emphasises that effective leadership involves leading by example and understanding one's team rather than merely giving orders.

His message to the youth emphasises the value of hard work, honesty, respect, and familial bonds as essential elements on the path to success. While success may not be guaranteed, Kamlesh advises the youth to stay committed to their endeavours and maintain integrity in their actions.