Neha Mehrotra
06-May-2025
Don’t just take care of your skin, but heal your skin, — believes Manasi Scott, founder of Mana by Manasi
1. Talk to us a little about your transition from a software engineer to a singer and actor and now an entrepreneur.
Though I was an A-grade student all through my education, I was always actively involved in competitions like singing, debates, and elocution, as well as various sports at the state and national level. My father, besides being a decorated general and surgeon, was also a drummer-singer and he was the one who urged me to take up entertainment as a career. So I did a postgrad diploma in film and TV production and realised early on I was better in front of the camera than behind it and started off as a showstopper in the fashion industry, singing and the rest is history!
As for my entrepreneurial journey, even though my mother is a doctor, I never relied on allopathy much. And because of this, I learnt a lot more about the base ingredients that we have used in the ManaByManasi range. Additionally, I grew up in Bhutan and Pitthoragarh and I used my mountain roots to start a brand which is more healing than just skin care.
2. What does MANA mean, and how does it relate to the brand’s identity?
Mana means occult healing, and in some cultures, it also means supernatural power. It is also a part of my name – Manasi.
3. You have very interesting names for all your product offerings, like SAMA, ARAH and more. Can you tell us more about the ingredient selection and concept behind these names?
All our products are made from ingredients grown above the tree line in the Himalayas.
Growing up there, I was exposed to them very early on in life. I have always believed that the Himalayas are magical and have healing powers. I re-discovered sea buckthorn cream during my pregnancy and have no stretch marks, so I decided to explore more plants, shrubs and fruits that help the body heal.
The names for each product are also Sanskrit words that we took a long time studying and discovering. Each name embodies the spirit of its main ingredient and its healing properties. For example, SAMA – for our Seabuckthorn Cream – means calmness and a state of balance. We chose this power-packed plant because it reverses ageing and brings the skin and hair back to its vitality.
4. How does MANA by Manasi ensure ethical and sustainable ingredient sourcing?
We source our sea buckthorn, rosehip, lavender, lemons and apricot from the Himalayan region (6,000–15,000 feet). These are handpicked by local farming communities and we strongly believe in respecting and preserving the natural landscape. All our products are crafted without synthetic additives, ensuring purity and reducing potential harm to both users and the environment. We also make our products in limited quantities to minimise waste and ensure quality control.
5. If you had to pick one favourite product from your range, which one would it be?
They are all amazing! But if I had to choose one, it would be a combination of my rosehip oil – ROHA – followed by my Lemon Lush soap. It is a 2-step process for removing the most stubborn mascara or makeup.
6. In your experience, what are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about natural skincare?
I would rather share what I have learnt or rediscovered because skin is everything and it is unique to the person wearing it. No matter what product you use, the intention should be to invigorate and feel good. Talking to your skin, using ancient techniques like patting, aka ‘champi’, talking to your hair and massaging yourself while bathing are some methods to feel better, vitalised and happy. This is also why I have soaps and creams and oils in ManaByManasi and a note inside each box sharing tidbits like this!
7. What’s next for MANA by Manasi? Are there any new product launches or expansions in the pipeline?
Yes, there are! Each of my products was used by children, teenagers and male and female friends and me to make sure they were delivered, and that took years. I am studying more plants that heal and will continue on this journey!
