Back in 1996, while pursuing my MBA at Maharishi University, I met my future business partner. As the only two women in our class, we often imagined starting something meaningful together. Life took us on different journeys after graduation, I built my career in the telecom sector while focusing on my family, and she dedicated herself to her own goals. It wasn’t until we reconnected in 2016 that we realized the timing was perfect to finally join forces and make a positive impact.
Drawing on our roots in Andhra Pradesh, we recognized the untapped potential of banana fiber, a local agricultural by-product that’s usually burned as waste. Inspired by this, we set out to convert this resource into biodegradable sanitary napkins, providing a healthier option for women and the environment. We invested our savings to travel across India, researching materials, technology, and processes.
Our perseverance paid off, we developed a safe, affordable prototype and, after extensive awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, to discuss alternatives to the plastic sanitary napkins and we launched full-scale production in 2019. By involving women in our supply chain and collaborating with self-help groups and farmers, we ensured our initiative benefited both the environment and local communities.
Recognizing the need to grow our online presence, I joined the Walmart Vriddhi program in 2020. This experience was transformative, equipping me with practical skills in digital marketing, eCommerce, and streamlining our operations. With the support and mentorship from the program, we registered on Flipkart and expanded across multiple digital channels. As a result, our revenue grew from ₹3 lakhs in 2020 to ₹35 lakhs in 2025, and our reach continues to expand as we leverage the power of eCommerce.
Our work has gained recognition from organizations and the Telangana government, opening opportunities to support rural women in setting up their own production units. We now operate in several districts across Jharkhand and are expanding further through partnerships with educational and local institutions.
My next goal is to establish an incubation centre to mentor women entrepreneurs across India while pursuing my Chartered Accountancy qualification – a long-held dream. This journey proves that with the right idea, commitment, and support, it’s possible to build a business that creates meaningful change for both people and the planet.
