–Celebrating International MSME Day–
Udaipur : In India’s diverse economic landscape, artisans and micro-entrepreneurs play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and driving grassroots growth. To mark International MSME Day, Flipkart showcases the inspiring journeys of MSME Samarth entrepreneurs, exemplifying the transformative power of the online marketplace and innovation in driving business success. Launched in 2019, the Flipkart Samarth program has supported over 1.8 million livelihoods by providing market access and digital tools, empowering MSMEs, and integrating them into the e-commerce ecosystem.
As we commemorate this significant day, we would like to celebrate the diverse entrepreneurial journeys of Sukhen Das’s antique jewelry craftsmanship, Swapnil Kabra’s traditional wood furniture business, Ayush Kumavat’s innovative handicrafts, and Priyadarshini Panda’s empowering saree venture.Each narrative underscores the entrepreneurs’ passion, their success story, and Flipkart’s role in fostering growth through digital transformation, market reach, and community empowerment.
In Jodhpur, Rajasthan, ‘The Attic’ epitomizes quality and tradition in handcrafted furniture. Founded by 35-year-old entrepreneur Swapnil Kabra, this thriving business traces its roots to Swapnil’s childhood, surrounded by the art of furniture-making. His father’s involvement in supplying raw materials inspired Swapnil’s ambition.
Equipped with an M.Com. and an MBA from New Delhi, Swapnil launched ‘The Attic’ in 2013, focusing on solid wood furniture that reflects Jodhpur’s woodworking heritage. Initially, the business lacked exposure, but partnering with Flipkart in 2015–2016 transformed its trajectory. The digital shift allowed ‘The Attic’ to reach a wider audience, boosting growth significantly.
In the first five years with Flipkart, ‘The Attic’ established a strong market presence, experiencing sustainable year-on-year growth. Today, the business employs over 140 people across manufacturing, sales, and office departments. Its product range includes coffee tables, beds, study tables, console tables, and popular kitchen cabinets. With an annual turnover of 3–4 crores on Flipkart, ‘The Attic’ is especially popular in Bangalore and Gurgaon, with Bangalore alone accounting for 30–40% of sales.
Swapnil envisions further expansion, aiming for a 10 crore turnover on Flipkart by 2026 and a 100 crore turnover in 15 years.
In the vibrant streets of Jaipur, Rajasthan, Ayush Kumawat’s story unfolds with resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. At 27, Ayush leads his family’s business, Stuthi Arts, to new heights amidst adversity. Born into a family rooted in the handicrafts industry, Ayush inherited a passion for creating exquisite marble and wooden products. Guided by his father, Motilal Kumawat, Ayush embraced hard work and dedication. After completing his education, he boldly chose entrepreneurship, aiming to carve out his own identity.
For three decades, the Kumawat family thrived, supplying meticulously crafted products to wholesalers and operating a local shop. However, the pandemic lockdown brought uncertainty. Refusing to despair, Ayush recognized the need to adapt and seized the opportunity of e-commerce. Through the Flipkart Samarth program, he navigated online retail, leveraging insights to propel Stuthi Arts into the digital marketplace.
With determination, Ayush and his parents diversified their offerings, creating handmade photo frames tailored for the online market. Their digital presence flourished, selling over 150 units daily on Flipkart. Ayush’s vision and strategic acumen were pivotal to this success.
Ayush’s journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and community upliftment. By nurturing Stuthi Arts, he secured a promising future for his family and empowered a team of 25 skilled artisans, revitalizing the handicraft tradition. Aiming to become the foremost name in his category, Ayush’s story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs. Each frame, crafted with passion and precision, weaves a legacy of excellence, marking Jaipur’s entrepreneurial landscape.
