The Startup Saturday November event reflected the breathtaking rich culture, ethnic heritage, multi-coloured artistic traditions, and jewels of Rajasthan. The exotic looking campus of Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), overwhelming response of more than 100 participants- a mix of enthusiastic students, professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs, and free rides by UBER, enlightened the event. The breathtaking video about Rajasthan- the land of jewels was also projected to kick off the event.

Mr. Paresh Gupta ignited the opening with an introduction about Headstart. He also highlighted the importance of these events and networking. He lightened his pitch by giving various Start-up ideas, that no one has ever thought about such as – Haveli on Wheels to restoring forts.

The instigation of sharing the success story was done by Mr. Sameer Chaturvedi# CEO@ JAIPUr RUGS FOUNDATION (JRF). He began by explaining the complete business model and made us aware about the fact that Jaipur Rugs group is known globally not just for exquisite rugs and other home furnishing products but also its unique and inclusive business-development model that links grassroots artisans with world markets. This unique model was also featured in the ‘The Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid’. He has played an important role in shaping the strategy for transforming the unskilled poor populace, especially women, into skilled artisans in the carpet value chain while ensuring their sustainable socio-economic development. The skill development program and Alternative Education Program at JRF are transforming the lives of rural people.

This inspiring session went on with the advent of yet another entrepreneur on the dais- Mr. Deepak Sharma, GM – Gemco designs- a recognized luxury jewellery export house. Apart from entrepreneurship business, he is also an Activist, Project Management Consultant, Coach to youngsters & a Sweat Equity Investor. His presentation highlighting oxygen and innovation landed everyone into the thought of starting his/ her own business. Money and education can never be a bar in becoming an entrepreneur. The whole session was very well planed, and presented. He then opened the floor for Q & A session and immediately got a volley of questions shot towards him, which he answered very well.

The next session was from Mr. Neeraj Doshi. Water conservation and handicraft business enthusiast. He leads Jaigarh Fort Water Walks to inspire people to solve Rajasthan’s water problem and guides young entrepreneur. His splendid presentation made an everlasting impact on everyone’s mind and taught everyone a lesson- “Do what you Love, follow your bliss, and don’t let money stop you from doing what you love “. Through his entire session, it felt like everyone was flowing in his story of water walks, which admired- water harvesting system at various forts in Rajasthan. Before leaving the dais, he also gave a discount deal to all the participants of SS, to take ride of his astounding water walks.

The next speaker – Mr. Vineet Sharma, touched everyone’s heart by telling his story about how he started and managed other things to follow his heart- The History passion. Owner at Jaipur Walks, he offers various types of walks- religious, built heritage, bazaar, art and craft walks and many more. He has pioneered Jaipur Heritage Walks. He offers 3-4 hours, walk either early in morning or later in afternoon.
The presentations , videos and quizzes organized by mavericks didn’t allow audience to get diverted for a second even.
Mr. Chitan Bakshi concluded the event summing it up and thanked everyone, especially Mrs. Meenakshi, IICD Head, speakers for their memorable presentation and handed over the beautiful mementos to the speakers.

The event ended with a long Networking session over some light snacks courtesy- IICD. Weall listened and talked to one-another exchanging ideas and contact details.

Write-up by
Pranjal (mavericks at SS Jaipur)

Glimpses: