Saffron and the red dream
Many of us deplore with urbanization and giving up on family dreams. Some like Gaurav Sabharwal from Solan in Haryana show us there is still hope as they have followed an innovative dream.
Shoolini Saffron began with a modest dream in a small town, rooted in a family tradition. Gaurav, fresh from graduation, initially joined his father to support their small shoe business, finding purpose in expanding his father's work. However, four years ago, after his father's passing, Gaurav faced a heavy family debt, and the shoe business was struggling. Determined to take responsibility, Gaurav began exploring new, more profitable ventures. Observing the saturated mushroom farming market in his region, Solan, he realized he needed a different path. His research online led him to discover the lucrative potential of saffron – "red gold." Though he initially believed saffron could only be grown in Kashmir, Gaurav soon learned of innovative cultivation techniques that could make it possible in Himachal Pradesh.
Intrigued by aeroponics – a soil-free method where plants grow with roots misted with nutrient-rich spray – he began an intensive learning journey. He connected with experienced growers and secured a Rs 10 lakh loan, aided by government support under a startup scheme. With investment in hand, he set up a controlled lab in Solan, recreating the cool, precise climate saffron needs.
The initial months were challenging, especially when a fungal infection threatened his first crop. However, Gaurav's persistence paid off; after months of careful monitoring and tending, he successfully harvested 500 grams of saffron. Selling this at Rs 500 per gram due to its purity, he saw promising returns, thanks to the technique’s ability to produce year-round, regardless of seasons.
Named "Shoolini Saffron," the company quickly attracted attention from others interested in aeroponics. Gaurav has since trained several aspiring growers and plans to expand production, aiming to make Shoolini Saffron a leading name in high-quality, pure saffron.
For a business like Shoolini Saffron, incubator support was invaluable in its journey from concept to market expansion.
To improve the product and possibly expand into related ventures, incubator programs often provide mentorship sessions. This guidance would be essential for Gaurav as he continues to train others and explores scaling his aeroponics operations.
Knowing his passion, I am sure we will hear more about him and his operations.
By Jamuna Rangachari
