ES. Would you like to begin by sharing a bit about your journey to becoming Director of National Events at GJEPC – what inspired you to take on this role?
Shamal Pote. My professional journey spans over two enriching decades across sales, marketing, strategic business unit operations, and large-scale project management in diverse sectors including manufacturing, engineering, audiovisual, and the gems & jewellery trade exhibition industry. The past decade, in particular, has been profoundly rewarding, as I dedicated myself to the B2B gems and jewellery exhibitions space—an industry that continues to inspire me with its dynamism and creative spirit.
My foray into the world of trade exhibitions began in 2004, which eventually led me to the gems and jewellery sector during my tenure at UBM India. This experience laid a strong foundation and ignited a deep passion for this field, which I continued to build upon through my work with private exhibition companies, including projects within the imitation jewellery sector. These roles gave me invaluable insights into diverse industry segments, strengthened my focus on enhancing customer satisfaction, and sharpened my ability to innovate and scale services.
Joining GJEPC and contributing to the growth of the prestigious IIJS brand felt like a natural evolution in my career. IIJS is globally recognized as one of the premier B2B shows in the gem and jewellery space, and the opportunity to elevate it further was not just a professional milestone but also a personal privilege. This role aligns perfectly with my passion for creating world-class platforms that drive business, foster global networking, and contribute meaningfully to industry growth.
ES. With IIJS, IGJME, SAJEX, and other shows in the mix – what differentiates each platform, and how do you see them complementing one another?
Shamal Pote. Each of our shows serves a distinct purpose while working in harmony to amplify India’s global footprint in the gems and jewellery industry. The IIJS Bharat umbrella-comprising Premiere, Signature, and Tritiya-represents our flagship suite of B2B jewellery exhibitions. These shows are definitive sourcing platforms, seamlessly integrating the entire value chain of the jewellery sector under one roof. With
participation from over 60 countries, they are a testament to India’s leadership in this domain and serve as powerful enablers of international trade and networking.
Running parallel is IGJME Bharat (India Gem & Jewellery Machinery Expo), a focused platform dedicated to cutting-edge machinery, technology, tools, and allied services. It plays a critical role in empowering manufacturers and retailers by introducing innovations that enhance production efficiency, design precision, and overall competitiveness. In many ways, it strengthens the very backbone of our industry. In 2025, we launched SAJEX – the Saudi Arabia Jewellery Exposition, held for the first time in September. SAJEX was a landmark initiative-India’s first large-scale jewellery trade show in Saudi Arabia-opening new doors to one of the Middle East’s most rapidly growing markets. It showcased India’s extraordinary craftsmanship and design ethos, while creating valuable opportunities for cross-border partnerships and cultural exchange.
Together, these platforms are not isolated events—they are interconnected ecosystems. While IIJS serves the domestic and global finished jewellery markets, IGJME supports the industry’s technological evolution, and SAJEX opens access to strategic new regions. Collectively, they embody our mission to position India as a global hub for gems and jewellery and to ensure inclusive growth across all segments of the value chain.
ES. GJEPC recently secured 1,100 businesses across 1,900 booths for IIJS Tritiya 2025. Could you walk us through the challenges and successes behind that scale?
Shamal Pote. Securing participation from 1,100 businesses across 1,900 booths for IIJS Tritiya 2025 stands as a proud milestone in our journey-a reflection of the trust, relevance, and growing influence of the IIJS brand. Achieving this scale came with its share of challenges. As the show continues to evolve into a pan-India retail sourcing platform with growing international appeal, we had to carefully balance expectations, logistical constraints, and the ambition to elevate exhibitor and buyer experiences alike. One of our key priorities was to ensure inclusivity-welcoming both established names and emerging players. This balance brought vibrancy and diversity to the show floor, creating an ecosystem that thrives on innovation and opportunity.
The response from the industry was overwhelmingly positive. We witnessed a remarkable convergence of talent-from traditional artisans and legacy manufacturers to contemporary designers-all under one roof. This created a dynamic platform not just for trade, but also for trendsetting, collaboration, and growth. Ultimately, the success of IIJS Tritiya 2025 underscores the confidence the industry places in GJEPC. It strengthens our resolve to continue scaling up-not just in numbers, but in delivering meaningful, world-class experiences that drive business impact and industry transformation.
ES. What has been the most challenging event you’ve delivered, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Shamal Pote. Large-scale exhibitions are challenging but offer immense opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Delivering editions of IIJS Bharat-Premiere, Signature, and Tritiya-requires flawless coordination across exhibitors, delegates, service providers, and authorities. Success comes from meticulous planning, clear communication, and strong teamwork. Beyond logistics, the true reward is the energy on the show floor, new partnerships, and contributing to industry growth. With vision and attention to detail, we create platforms that inspire, innovate, and leave a lasting legacy.
