India Untold
Two sisters from Lucknow, Nazish and Insha introduced Kolhapuri sandals to the online markets.
Nazish has an MA degree in Economics, and Insha wanted to become a CA or a bank manager. However, on their brother’s suggestion, they ventured into entrepreneurship.
Nazish and Insha’s father was the sole breadwinner of the family, and the financial situation of the household was challenging.
With an investment of Rs 300, Nazish initiated her business. She purchased decorative items and showcased her designer Kolhapuri sandals on Instagram.
Nazish made a Facebook page with the name ‘Talking Toes.’ Despite sharing multiple designs, she did not receive any orders in the first four months.
Nazish and Insha redesigned the sandals and wrote words like ‘Badshah’ and ‘Begum’ on them. This unique creation generated a remarkable 250 orders.
In 2018, Nazish and Insha received a message from the film actress Amrita Singh, expressing her desire to purchase 10 to 12 sandals for herself and her daughter, Sara Ali Khan.
Gradually, the sisters started receiving orders from celebrities like Vidya Balan, Daisy Shah, Sania Mirza, Neha Dhupia, Taapsee Pannu and Parineeti Chopra.
Nazish and Insha offer a wide range of sandals, with prices ranging from Rs 900 to Rs 10,000. Customized designs are also made.
Nazish and Insha grew the business by relentlessly working for 18 hours or more in a day. The mirror work designs require 25 minutes for each piece.
Nazish and Insha receive orders from overseas, including places like Dubai, New York, and Italy.