STARTUP-STORIES
From Humble Beginnings to Shark Tank Success: Ankush Barjata's Deeva Revolutionizes Saree Industry
SUMMARY
Ankush Barjata, from a small village in Himachal Pradesh, founded Deeva, an online saree platform connecting customers directly to manufacturers. He faced initial challenges but secured investment on Shark Tank India, boosting sales and empowering rural communities.
Deeva offers a wide range of sarees (Patola, Kanjivaram etc.) at competitive prices with a user-friendly platform. Ankush plans to expand Deeva into a 150 crore business with international exports and physical stores while celebrating traditional craftsmanship.
Ankush Barjata's story is an inspiring tale of perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit. This young man from a small village in Himachal Pradesh has carved a niche for himself in the online saree industry with his innovative platform, Deeva.
Building a Dream from Scratch:
- Driven by a desire to provide a better life for his family and inspired by his family's legacy in the clothing business, Ankush embarked on his entrepreneurial journey.
- Identifying a gap in the saree market, he envisioned connecting customers directly to manufacturers, eliminating middlemen and offering competitive prices.
- With limited resources, Ankush embarked on a nationwide tour to understand the industry's intricacies and forge partnerships with manufacturers.
Challenges and Triumphs:
- Ankush's initial venture faced setbacks, leading him to relocate and work tirelessly to establish Deeva.
- He leveraged technology, creating a user-friendly website and app catering to the needs of working women seeking quality sarees.
- His commitment to ethical business practices included ensuring prompt payments to manufacturers, leading to a win-win situation for all stakeholders.
Shark Tank Boost and Future Aspirations:
- Ankush's appearance on Shark Tank India Season 3 catapulted Deeva into the national spotlight, securing a significant investment and boosting sales.
- With a dedicated team of 30 people from his village and partnerships with over 500 manufacturers, Deeva empowers rural communities and celebrates traditional craftsmanship.
- Looking ahead, Ankush envisions scaling Deeva into a Rs 150 crore business, expanding into international markets, and establishing a physical retail presence.