The early days of Instagram, a time of exponential smartphone growth and burgeoning internet access, set the stage for Darshil Naik's foray into the online world. This Ponda resident, with a keen eye for nature photography, began his journey in 2014, transforming his passion into a full-fledged profession. Today, his Instagram page, 'Goan Heaven' (@goanheaven), boasts a loyal following of nearly 42,000, serving as a one-stop shop for uncovering Goa's secret treasures, from delectable cuisine to captivating travel destinations.
The beginning
It all started in 2014 with my love for nature photography, which turned out to resonate well with my audience. Fast forward to 2018, and "Goan Heaven" was born. The name itself reflects what Goa is to me - a paradise waiting to be explored. My content spans food, travel, nature, and immersive experiences like hotel stays and activities.
Overcoming challenges
Starting out young meant limitations. Being underage came with restrictions on how far I could travel to create content. Transportation was a hurdle back then. Over time, I invested in a bike and the equipment I needed, giving me the freedom to explore more remote locations. Balancing my engineering studies with exploring Goa for content creation can be tough, but I make it work.
Dedication is key
I dedicate two to three hours daily to the page, meticulously handling post-production work. Content creation itself demands additional time. It's a significant chunk of my free time, but incredibly satisfying. There's never a moment when I don't enjoy creating content.
Standing out
With Goa content everywhere you look, finding unique things to cover can be a challenge. I tackle this by focusing on events and lesser-known locations, often specific to particular areas. My audience loved my coverage of the Patkar Niwas in Curchorem, a hidden gem they weren't aware of.
Building my brand
When I launched the page, the core idea was to create content about things I enjoy, so I wouldn't get burnt out. The name itself reflects my love for Goa, and I even designed the logo later on. I've also cultivated a distinct video presentation style to set myself apart. Short introductions lead swiftly into showcasing the featured location, keeping viewers engaged. I use trendy music to ensure my content resonates with my audience, and Goan-centric hashtags to boost discoverability.
Audience connection
Honestly, I never envisioned the page's immense success. Content creation began as a hobby that blossomed into a profession. The follower growth has been incredible! Today, collaborations with businesses are commonplace, further aiding my creative journey. The most significant takeaway? A majority of my audience hails from Goa itself. The page, true to its purpose, has become a guide for them to unearth the hidden wonders within their beloved state, and I intend to keep it that way.
Looking ahead
The future is exciting. I'm planning to launch "Goan Heaven" merchandise, a unique blend of the brand's identity and fashion sense, something I'm sure will resonate across Goa.
Words of advice
For aspiring creators out there, my message is clear: Consistency is key. Regardless of the response, unwavering consistency is what matters. There will be moments of discouragement, but perseverance is crucial.
