Lalitha Dolls: Innovation rooted in tradition

January 22, 2025 Innovation Valli Sarvani

When adversity strikes, innovation often leads the way forward. This was the case for Bengaluru-based Divya Tejaswi, who transformed a challenging moment into an inspiring journey.

During the pandemic-induced lockdown, Divya and her husband lost their teaching jobs, leaving them uncertain about their future.

However, a spark of creativity emerged when Divya found inspiration in her daughter’s doll and reimagined it in traditional Indian attire, blending culture with craftsmanship.

What started as a personal experiment soon became a breakthrough idea. Divya started customising the dolls of her daughter in ethnic wear. When these pictures were shared on social media, the response was overwhelming.

Within days, she received her first order for 20 personalised dolls. This initial success laid the foundation for Lalitha Dolls, a brand dedicated to handcrafted ethnic dolls that celebrate India’s rich traditions.

Each doll is meticulously crafted using plastic, synthetic materials, wool, and thread, reflecting a harmonious mix of creativity and detail.

Beyond just toys, these dolls symbolize a unique cultural narrative, appealing to audiences both in India and abroad.

With orders streaming in from the United States, Canada, Malaysia, and Korea, Lalitha Dolls have become a global sensation.

Innovation in Divya’s approach doesn’t stop at design. She has also created opportunities for others, employing five women to assist in the crafting process.

This collaborative effort not only sustains her growing business but also empowers her team with meaningful employment.

The brand has already achieved impressive milestones, generating an annual revenue of ₹10 lakh, and Divya is now setting her sights on opening a physical store for Lalitha Dolls.

Her vision is to make these dolls even more accessible and to expand their reach further.

Divya’s journey is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and resilience, turning a personal setback into a thriving business.

By blending tradition with entrepreneurship, Lalitha Dolls has set a benchmark in the art of cultural innovation.

Image Credit: StartupG Instagram Page