"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
14 Sep 2023
A remarkable story of entrepreneurship unfolds in the ancient city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. Meet Surya Varshan, a 21-year-old undergraduate student who has defied convention and carved his own path to success. Surya is the brains and heart behind Naked Nature, a cosmetic and skincare brand that has not only captured the market's attention but also achieved impressive financial milestones.
Surya's journey began with a humble start, as he embarked on this entrepreneurial adventure with just Rs 200, saved from his pocket money during his school days. He took his first step into the business world by creating bath salts infused with Dead Sea salt and floral extracts. This initial product laid the foundation for what would become Naked Nature.
What makes Surya's story even more inspiring is his unwavering determination. Initially, local stores didn't respond positively to his offerings, but a breakthrough came when an ayurvedic doctor purchased his bath salts for her parents, who had joint pain. This early success provided the motivation he needed. With his father's gift of a Royal Enfield Bullet, he gained more mobility and flexibility to grow his venture.
One pivotal decision was to transition to online sales. This shift allowed him to expand his product range and reach a wider audience. To fund this expansion, Surya learned digital marketing and offered online classes, earning Rs 2.20 lakh to invest back into his business. Today, Naked Nature offers a diverse range of 47 products, with prices ranging from Rs 150 to Rs 400.
Surya's entrepreneurial journey has earned him recognition and support from the Crescent Innovation & Incubation Council (CIIC) in Chennai, which values his enterprise at Rs 10 crore. CIIC has offered a grant of Rs 30 lakh to further develop his business.
What sets Naked Nature apart is not just its products but also its ethos. The company operates debt-free, with every rupee earned being reinvested into growth. Surya has also set up an 800 sq ft manufacturing facility in Madurai, employing six people. His products are available at nine stores across several states in India.
Surya Varshan's remarkable success story is proof of his resilience, determination, and innovative spirit. He credits his achievements to the unwavering support and love of his parents throughout his entrepreneurial journey. From a mere Rs 200 to a thriving brand valued at Rs 10 crore, Surya's story is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, dedication, and an entrepreneurial spirit.