Biography of Swapna Wagh: Founder and CEO of Desi Toys- Entrepreneur
The Story of Swapna Wagh and Desi Toys
A Vision Takes Root
Swapna Wagh, an MBA graduate with a dual specialization in
Marketing and Human Resources, always held a deep affection for traditional
Indian toys. This love was sparked by her childhood experiences in a small
village in Maharashtra, where she and her cousins would play with simple, yet
captivating toys like gili danda and lagori. These toys weren't just
playthings; they were a gateway to cherished memories. Swapna’s early
fascination with these classic toys set the stage for her future venture.
From Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship
After completing her studies, Swapna worked in the retail
sector for over eight years, gaining valuable experience. Despite her success
in the corporate world, she found herself yearning for something more
fulfilling. Driven by her passion for toys and the desire to bring back
traditional play, Swapna decided to leave her corporate job and pursue her
dream. This shift was motivated by her belief that the richness of traditional
Indian games was being overshadowed by modern gadgets.
Crafting a New Idea
In 2012, Swapna founded Desi Toys with a mission to revive
the charm of Indian toys. She envisioned a company that would not only bring
back classic toys but also ensure they were of high quality. Swapna started by
researching and sourcing traditional toys, but soon realized that she needed to
innovate to meet contemporary standards. Her goal was to offer toys that
combined the nostalgic appeal of the past with modern safety and quality
requirements.
Building the Foundation
The initial phase of Desi Toys involved extensive research
and development. Swapna spent nearly two years exploring different artisan
communities across India to find skilled craftsmen who could produce the toys.
Her hands-on approach included visiting remote villages, which often proved
challenging but was crucial for understanding the craftsmanship and ensuring
the authenticity of the toys.
Overcoming Challenges
Swapna’s journey was not without its hurdles. Managing a new
business while caring for her young daughter was demanding. Despite the
difficulties, her determination never wavered. The challenges of balancing
personal and professional life, combined with the pressures of starting a new
business, only strengthened her resolve. She remained focused on her vision of
reviving traditional Indian play.
Testing the Waters
In October 2012, Swapna launched a small kiosk in a popular
mall to test her products in the market. The positive feedback from customers
encouraged her to expand. This early success provided the confidence needed to
scale up operations, leading to the establishment of a larger store within a
year. This expansion marked a significant milestone for Desi Toys, proving that
the market was receptive to her vision.
Embracing the Digital Age
Recognizing the shift towards online shopping, Swapna
quickly adapted by listing Desi Toys’ products on major e-commerce platforms
like Flipkart, Amazon, and Snapdeal. This move allowed her to reach a broader
audience and cater to the growing trend of online shopping. Additionally, Desi
Toys launched its own e-store, www.desitoys.in, further enhancing its online
presence.
Biography of Swapna Wagh: Founder and CEO of Desi Toys- Indian Entrepreneur/ Startup/Age/Net worth/Shark tank/Swapna Wagh story/Desi Toystraditional to
Broadening Horizons
Desi Toys soon attracted attention from international and
non-resident Indian (NRI) customers. To cater to this demographic, Swapna
sought opportunities to showcase her products at airport stores. This strategic
placement helped Desi Toys reach travelers looking for unique gifts and
expanded its market beyond domestic borders.
Emphasizing Quality and Safety
Swapna was committed to ensuring that Desi Toys were not
only nostalgic but also safe and high-quality. All products are crafted without
plastic, using materials that are tested to meet safety standards. This
commitment to quality is a cornerstone of Desi Toys, reflecting Swapna’s
dedication to providing the best for her customers.
Celebrating Indian Artistry
Each Desi Toy is a testament to Indian craftsmanship. The
toys are handcrafted by artisans who are carefully selected for their skill and
expertise. This collaboration not only preserves traditional techniques but
also supports local artisans. Swapna’s focus on authenticity and quality has
helped Desi Toys stand out in a competitive market.
Navigating the Market
Swapna’s approach to pricing was strategic. Understanding
that toys are often bought as gifts and are sensitive to price changes, she
worked hard to keep the products affordable. By negotiating with vendors and
optimizing production methods, she managed to balance quality with cost, making
Desi Toys accessible to a wide audience.
Achieving Milestones
Desi Toys achieved operational profitability in its first
year, with net sales crossing the Rs 1 crore mark. The success of standalone
stores, along with a significant portion of sales coming from online platforms,
demonstrated the strong market demand for traditional Indian toys. This
financial success was a testament to the effectiveness of Swapna’s business
model.
The Impact of Nostalgia
Swapna’s venture tapped into a powerful nostalgia for
traditional Indian games. Desi Toys successfully reintroduced classic toys to a
new generation, allowing adults to relive their childhood memories while
providing children with engaging, non-digital play options. This blend of
nostalgia and innovation has been a key factor in Desi Toys’ success.
Upholding Cultural Heritage
Desi Toys is more than just a toy company; it’s a
celebration of Indian culture. By reviving traditional games and crafts, Swapna
is contributing to the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage. Her work
helps maintain a connection to the past while adapting to modern times,
ensuring that traditional play remains relevant.
Looking Ahead
With continued growth and a strong commitment to quality and
authenticity, Desi Toys is poised for further expansion. Swapna’s vision of
blending traditional play with contemporary standards has proven successful,
and the future looks bright for this unique brand. As Desi Toys continues to
grow, it will undoubtedly play a significant role in preserving and celebrating
India’s rich cultural legacy.
Timeline of Swapna Wagh and Desi Toys
Early Inspiration: Childhood fascination with traditional
Indian toys in Maharashtra.
2012: Founded Desi Toys to revive and modernize traditional
toys.
2012 (Oct): Launched a small kiosk to test the market,
leading to early success.
2013: Expanded from a kiosk to a larger store.
2014: Embraced e-commerce by listing products on major
platforms and launching www.desitoys.in.
2015: Expanded reach to international and NRI customers
through airport store placements.
2016: Achieved operational profitability with net sales
exceeding Rs 1 crore.
Ongoing: Ensured quality and safety, emphasizing
craftsmanship and affordability.
Future: Aims for continued growth and preservation of Indian
cultural heritage through Desi Toys.
