India Untold

Lucknowi Sisters’ International Business of Selling Kolhapuri Sandals

Image credits: our own

Lucknowi Sisters

Two sisters from Lucknow, Nazish and Insha introduced Kolhapuri sandals to the online markets.

Image credits: our own

Stepping into the world of business

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.

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Nazish and Insha's family

Nazish and Insha’s father was the sole breadwinner of the family, and the financial situation of the household was challenging. 
 

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An investment of Rs 300

With an investment of Rs 300, Nazish initiated her business. She purchased decorative items and showcased her designer Kolhapuri sandals on Instagram. 
 

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‘Talking Toes’

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. 
 

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Unique collection

Nazish and Insha redesigned the sandals and wrote words like ‘Badshah’ and ‘Begum’ on them. This unique creation generated a remarkable 250 orders. 
 

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Order from Amrita Singh

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. 
 

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Orders from Bollywood celebrities

Gradually, the sisters started receiving orders from celebrities like Vidya Balan, Daisy Shah, Sania Mirza, Neha Dhupia, Taapsee Pannu and Parineeti Chopra.
 

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Wide range of Kolhapuri sandals

Nazish and Insha offer a wide range of sandals, with prices ranging from Rs 900 to Rs 10,000. Customized designs are also made. 
 

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18 hours of work

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. 

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Orders from overseas

Nazish and Insha receive orders from overseas, including places like Dubai, New York, and Italy.

Image credits: our own
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