86-year-old woman behind the success of Shahi Exports

July 7, 2023 Unknown Wizards Valli Sarvani No comments

Shahi Exports, India’s largest apparel manufacturer, has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the early 1970s.

Founded by Sarla Ahuja, the company started as a makeshift unit in her home in Delhi.

Today, Shahi Exports has grown into a powerhouse with 115,000 employees and a revenue of ₹8,244 crores last financial year.

Its impressive client roster includes major brands like Walmart, Gap Inc, H&M, and Target, among others.

Sarla Ahuja, now 86 years old and retired due to ill health, remains up-to-date with the company’s progress and is joined by her grandson, Anant Ahuja, who outlines Shahi’s plans for building a women-strong workforce and promoting sustainability.

Married at a young age, Sarla began working as a sewing machine operator in a factory to supplement her family’s income when she was 22. Juggling work and home became challenging, and after a year, she decided to quit and start fulfilling orders from home. In this process, she hired some women to help her.

Despite facing complaints from neighbours about workers coming in and out of her home, Sarla persevered with the support of her family.

Shahi Exports experienced rapid growth, starting with a capital of ₹5,000 and a production unit in Delhi.

Sarla worked tirelessly to fulfil orders, sometimes working until midnight to meet urgent demands.

Sarla’s commitment extended beyond her own success. She reached out to women living in nearby slums, offering them employment opportunities and a chance at a better life for their children.

Despite facing threats, Sarla remained undeterred. Today, Shahi Exports boasts an impressive workforce with 77,000 women out of its total strength of 115,000, accounting for 68% of the workforce.

Sarla expresses her satisfaction with the work of her sons and grandchildren in running Shahi. Although she retired two years ago, she used to visit the Faridabad factory daily.

Anant shares Shahi’s initiatives on the sustainability front, highlighting the company’s creation of the first-of-its-kind circular dress under the Cradle to Cradle concept.

Through its Arth Collection, Shahi aims to have a positive ecological impact by rethinking the lifecycle of products, from design to disintegration.

The focus is on increasing durability and preserving the value of materials used in production.

Shahi Exports stands as a testament to Sarla Ahuja’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination.

From a small operation in her home to a global apparel manufacturer, the company continues to thrive under the leadership of Sarla’s family.

With a focus on empowering women and driving sustainability, Shahi Exports is making significant contributions to the industry and setting an example for others to follow.

Image Credit: Shahi Website Screenshot