Biography of Kalpana Jha: Founder and CEO of JhaJi Store- Entrepreneur

Biography of Kalpana Jha: Founder and CEO of JhaJi Store- Entrepreneur

Biography of Kalpana Jha:

Kalpana Jha is the founder of JhaJi Store, a business specializing in Mithila pickles and chutneys. Located in Darbhanga, Bihar, her venture represents not just a brand, but a celebration of the culinary traditions of the Mithilanchal region. Having launched in October 2020, JhaJi Store is a direct-to-consumer brand that has gained popularity for its authentic flavors and homemade quality.

From Passion to Profession

Kalpana's journey into entrepreneurship was fueled by her lifelong love for cooking and her cultural roots. Growing up in Mithilanchal, she developed a passion for creating homemade delicacies, particularly pickles. With the onset of the pandemic, she decided to transform this passion into a business, aiming to share the unique tastes of Bihari cuisine with a broader audience.

Building a Team and Operations

As the founder and CEO of JhaJi Store, Kalpana leads a dedicated team of about 25 to 30 people. Her role involves overseeing every aspect of the business, from production to marketing. On a daily basis, she spends much of her time ensuring the quality of the pickles and chutneys and engaging with customers through various channels, including email and social media.

The Story Behind JhaJi Store

The name "JhaJi" reflects Kalpana's roots in Mithilanchal, with "Jha" signifying their origin and "Ji" being a friendly term of respect. This connection to her heritage is central to the brand's identity, as JhaJi Store aims to bring the warmth of Maithili culture to every jar of pickles and chutneys.

A Commitment to Quality

JhaJi Store prides itself on using local ingredients and traditional recipes. The products are made without preservatives, colors, or additives, ensuring that customers receive authentic flavors that honor the culinary practices of the region. This commitment to quality has resonated with consumers looking for genuine homemade options.

Impact on the Community

Kalpana's initiative has created meaningful employment for many families in the area, particularly women who were affected by job losses during the pandemic. By providing training and jobs, JhaJi Store not only supports its workforce but also empowers them, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

 Biography of Kalpana Jha: Founder and CEO of JhaJi Store- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/Mithila pickles and chutneys/JhaJi Store/Kalpana Jha story

A Breakthrough Appearance on Shark Tank

JhaJi Store gained significant attention after appearing on the Indian television show Shark Tank India. The founders, Kalpana and her co-founder Uma Jha, showcased their pickles to the Sharks, capturing the interest of both investors and viewers alike. Although they did not secure funding during their initial pitch, their appearance generated considerable buzz and interest in their products.

Unexpected Support from Investors

Following their appearance on Shark Tank, Kalpana and Uma continued to work hard to grow their brand. They received encouragement from viewers and investors, which motivated them to persevere. Eventually, they secured a meeting with Vineeta Singh and Namita Thapar, who recognized the potential of JhaJi Store and decided to invest ₹85 lakhs in the business.

The Growth Journey

Since receiving funding, JhaJi Store has experienced remarkable growth. Initially launching with a few varieties of pickles, the brand has expanded its offerings and improved production processes. With a goal of reaching ₹10 crores in sales for 2023, Kalpana and her team are focused on innovation and expanding their market reach.

Financial Insights

JhaJi Store operates with a clear understanding of its financial structure. The costs associated with production, shipping, and selling are carefully managed to ensure profitability. Currently, the business maintains a profit margin of 17%, which reflects the careful balancing of expenses and revenue generation.

Upholding Tradition and Customer Care

JhaJi Store's unique selling proposition lies in its dedication to preserving traditional recipes while innovating for modern consumers. The brand emphasizes excellent customer service, rooted in the hospitality of Mithila culture. This commitment to authenticity and care has helped build strong relationships with customers.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Kalpana aims to continue growing JhaJi Store by exploring new flavors and expanding the product line to include various Maithili delicacies. The founders are committed to their vision of making JhaJi Store a beloved brand that shares the rich culinary heritage of Bihar with the world.

Conclusion: A Journey of Empowerment and Flavor

Kalpana Jha's story is one of passion, resilience, and community. Through JhaJi Store, she not only honors her cultural heritage but also empowers those around her. As she continues to innovate and expand her brand, Kalpana remains dedicated to her roots, ensuring that every jar of pickle carries the essence of Mithila and the spirit of togetherness.

A timeline for Kalpana Jha and JhaJi Store:

October 2020 - JhaJi Store is launched, specializing in Mithila pickles and chutneys.

2020 - Kalpana transforms her passion for cooking into a business during the pandemic.

2021 - JhaJi Store employs 25-30 people, focusing on quality and traditional recipes.

2022 - The brand gains recognition after appearing on Shark Tank India.

2022 - Kalpana and Uma secure an ₹85 lakh investment from Vineeta Singh and Namita Thapar.

2023 - JhaJi Store aims for ₹10 crores in sales and expands its product range.

2023 - The business maintains a profit margin of 17% through careful financial management.

 Biography of Kalpana Jha: Founder and CEO of JhaJi Store- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/Mithila pickles and chutneys/JhaJi Store/Kalpana Jha story