Biography of Jayanti Bhattacharya: Founder of India Hemp and Co.- Entrepreneur
Biography of Jayanti Bhattacharya:
Jayanti Bhattacharya, co-founder of India Hemp and Co.,
embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with a vision to promote sustainability
through hemp-based products. Established in 2020 alongside her sister Shalini
Bhattacharya, the company emerged from a shared desire to incorporate the
health benefits of hemp into daily nutrition. Living in different parts of the
world—Jayanti in Bengaluru and Shalini in Barcelona—they combined their passion
for healthy living and natural alternatives to create a unique business model
focused on wellness.
The Inspiration Behind the Brand
The sisters’ venture was significantly influenced by
Shalini’s personal health struggles. In 2017, she faced chronic back pain that
severely impacted her lifestyle, pushing her towards isolation and hindering
her everyday activities. Traditional treatments offered little relief,
prompting them to research alternative solutions. This journey led them to
discover Cannabidiol (CBD), an extract from the hemp plant, which proved
effective in managing her pain. This pivotal experience ignited their interest
in hemp and its potential, ultimately leading to the foundation of India Hemp
and Co.
A Sustainable Vision
India Hemp and Co. aims to create a sustainable future by
utilizing hemp, often referred to as a zero-waste plant due to its versatility.
Every part of the hemp plant can be utilized, making it an eco-friendly choice.
The sisters believe in hemp's potential not just as a food source but also as a
sustainable alternative to conventional agricultural practices. Their mission
is to educate consumers about hemp’s benefits while offering high-quality,
plant-based products.
Recognition and Growth
Since its inception, India Hemp and Co. has gained
significant recognition, being incubated at IIM-Bangalore's innovation hub and
earning accolades such as the title of ‘Hemp Nutraceutical Company’ for
2021-2022. Their work has also been featured in prestigious publications like
Forbes, highlighting their innovative approach to health and wellness. The
visibility gained from these platforms has contributed to their growing
reputation in the market.
A Platform for Empowerment
Jayanti is passionate about empowering women, and she
actively mentors aspiring female entrepreneurs. She believes in the importance
of fostering an environment where women can thrive in business. Her dedication
to equality extends beyond her mentorship, as she strives to create a workplace
that values diversity and supports women in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Shark Tank Experience
In 2022, India Hemp and Co. appeared on Shark Tank India,
where they sought ₹50 lakhs for a 4% equity stake. Despite not securing a deal,
the appearance significantly boosted their visibility and engagement on social
media. Jayanti and Shalini showcased their hemp-based products, educating the
audience about the plant’s nutritional and environmental benefits, which
resonated well with viewers.
Biography of Jayanti Bhattacharya: Founder of India Hemp & Co.-Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/India Hemp & Co./ Jayanti Bhattacharya story
Product Line and Sustainability
India Hemp and Co. began with three key products: hemp
hearts, hemp trail mix, and hemp protein powder. These offerings highlight the
nutritional value of hemp, which is rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fatty
acids. The sisters also ensured that their packaging is environmentally
friendly, using 100% biodegradable materials to align with their commitment to
sustainability. This thoughtful approach has set them apart in the market.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the primary challenges the sisters faced was raising
awareness about hemp and dispelling misconceptions. Many potential customers
were skeptical, often associating hemp with recreational drug use. Jayanti and
Shalini patiently educated their audience, clarifying that their products
promote health and wellness rather than intoxication. Their efforts have
gradually shifted perceptions and increased acceptance of hemp as a superfood.
Expansion of Offerings
As the business grew, so did the product line. India Hemp
and Co. expanded its offerings to include hemp-based noodles, vermicelli, and
even pet care products such as hemp oil and treats for dogs and cats. This
diversification reflects their commitment to meeting the evolving needs of
their customers, ensuring that hemp can be integrated into various aspects of
daily life.
Building a Community
The sisters are dedicated to creating a community around
hemp and its benefits. They have received positive feedback from customers who
initially approached their products with skepticism but later became repeat
buyers due to the noticeable health improvements they experienced. This growing
community serves as a testament to the effectiveness of their offerings and the
importance of education in promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Looking Ahead
As they continue to innovate, Jayanti and Shalini are
determined to push the boundaries of what hemp can achieve. Their vision
encompasses not just business success but also contributing to a more
sustainable world. With plans for further product development and outreach,
India Hemp and Co. is well-positioned to lead the charge in making hemp a
staple in health-conscious diets.
A Legacy of Nature
Through their journey, Jayanti and Shalini have embraced
their roots as nature lovers, drawing inspiration from the environment around
them. They view hemp as a gift from nature, rich in potential for both personal
health and environmental sustainability. By promoting hemp-based nutrition,
they hope to inspire others to explore the benefits of this remarkable plant
and encourage a shift towards more sustainable food choices for a healthier
planet.
Timeline for India Hemp and Co. Story
2020 - Jayanti and Shalini Bhattacharya co-found India Hemp
and Co. to promote hemp-based products.
2017 - Shalini's chronic back pain leads them to discover
Cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment.
Early 2021 - The sisters begin developing a product line
focused on hemp's health benefits.
2021-2022 - India Hemp and Co. earns the title of ‘Hemp
Nutraceutical Company’ and gains media recognition.
2022 - Appears on Shark Tank India, seeking ₹50 lakhs for a
4% equity stake, boosting visibility.
2022 - Launches initial products: hemp hearts, hemp trail
mix, and hemp protein powder.
2022 - Expands product line to include hemp-based noodles,
vermicelli, and pet care items.
2023 - Focuses on community building and education to shift
perceptions about hemp.
Future Plans - Aims to further innovate and expand product
offerings while promoting sustainability.
2024 - Jayanti actively mentors aspiring female
entrepreneurs, fostering diversity and empowerment.