In the heart of Bihar, where conservative ideologies often discouraged women from pursuing entrepreneurial dreams, Kalpana Jha & Uma Jha emerged as inspirational figures through their venture, JhaJi Store. Featured on Shark Tank India Season 1, this brand has captivated hearts from its unique story and exceptional products.
Overcoming Societal Norms
Despite societal norms that can be challenging for women in Darbhanga, these sisters-in-law defied their expectations. Ignoring criticism for starting a business in their 50s, Kalpana and Uma embarked on a journey fueled by determination and familial support.
The Genesis of JhaJi Store
Driven by the ambition to do something significant, the pair established JhaJi Store, a brand that breaks through conventional limits. Since its founding in October 2020, this project has quickly grown to represent strength and empowerment.
Family Support: The Driving Force
Acknowledging the importance of family support, Kalpana & Uma highlight the encouragement received from their husbands and children. Despite facing skepticism from a few relatives, their unwavering commitment to success prevailed.
Nurturing Dreams in Adversity
Both born and raised in middle-class families in Bihar, the sisters faced early challenges, including Uma having to drop out of her L.LB course due to marriage and pregnancy. However, these obstacles only fueled their determination to establish their identity.
JhaJi Store’s Unique Offerings
Launching in March 2021, JhaJi Store stands out with its exclusive range of handmade, sun-dried, traditional savories from Mithilanchal in Bihar. What sets them apart is a commitment to purity – their products are free of preservatives, colors, and additives, made with locally sourced ingredients.
A Business With Purpose
For Kalpana and Uma, JhaJi Store is more than a business; it’s a mission. Their goals include creating employment for over 500 women in Darbhanga by 2023, investing in girl child education, and making traditional Mithila savories a household name across India.
Shark Tank India Experience
Entering the spotlight on Shark Tank India Season 1, the JhaJi Store founders has impressed with their pitch & business acumen. Even though they were unable to obtain money, the tremendous response they received after the show launched their sales and turned things around for them.
Unprecedented Growth
With monthly sales surpassed Rs 25 lakh and a remarkable growth in sales of over 400%, JhaJi Store’s success speaks volumes. The Shark Tank India team’s visit, coupled with the unexpected presence of industry leaders Namita Thapar and Vineeta Singh, underscored the brand’s rising prominence.
Conclusion
Kalpana and Uma’s experience with JhaJi Store is a monument to tenacity and passion in the face of age-related hurdles and societal standards. Their dedication to empowerment, heritage, and quality not only establishes their brand but also acts as a model for prospective business owners around the country. It’s clear that JhaJi Store’s future is destined for even higher heights as we celebrate their accomplishments, echoing
FAQ’s
Ques. Who are Kalpana Jha and Uma Jha, and what is JhaJi Store?
Ans. Kalpana Jha and Uma Jha are sisters-in-law from Darbhanga, Bihar, who founded JhaJi Store, a brand known for its handmade, sun-dried, traditional savories. The store gained recognition after being featured on Shark Tank India Season 1.
Ques. What inspired Kalpana and Uma to start JhaJi Store?
Ans. The inspiration behind JhaJi Store was the sisters’ desire to create something of their own. Despite societal norms and criticism, they embarked on this entrepreneurial journey, driven by passion and familial support.
Ques. How did their families react to their decision to start a business?
Ans. Both sisters received substantial support from their husbands and children. While facing criticism from a few relatives, their family’s encouragement and motivation played a crucial role in overcoming challenges.
Ques. What makes JhaJi Store’s products unique?
Ans. JhaJi Store offers handmade, sun-dried, traditional savories from Mithilanchal in Bihar. Their products are free of preservatives, colors, and additives, and they use locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Ques. What are the goals of JhaJi Store?
Ans. JhaJi Store aims to create meaningful employment for 500+ women in Darbhanga by 2023, invest 10% of profits in girl child education in Bihar, and make traditional Mithila savories a household name across India.
Ques. How did JhaJi Store perform on Shark Tank India Season 1?
Ans. Although they didn’t secure funding, JhaJi Store’s pitch on Shark Tank India Season 1 garnered overwhelming post-airing responses, leading to significant sales growth and visibility.
Ques. What milestones has JhaJi Store achieved since its launch?
Ans. JhaJi Store has experienced remarkable growth, with monthly sales exceeding Rs 25 lakh and a growth rate of over 400%. Industry leaders Namita Thapar and Vineeta Singh also visited the factory, highlighting their success.
Ques. What is the significance of JhaJi Store’s journey?
Ans. JhaJi Store’s journey symbolizes resilience, passion, and a commitment to quality and tradition. It serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs facing societal norms and challenges.
Ques. What does the future hold for JhaJi Store?
Ans. The future looks promising for JhaJi Store, with its dedication to quality, tradition, and empowerment. As they continue to break barriers, the brand is poised for even greater success and recognition.
