First Indian Female Entrepreneur, Know Her Name

Kalpana Saroj, is an inspirational Indian businesswoman, entrepreneur, and TEDx speaker. She is best known for turning around the fortunes of Kamani Tubes, a Mumbai-based company that was on the verge of collapse. Her journey from a difficult early life to becoming a renowned entrepreneur highlights her resilience and business acumen.

Who was the First Indian Female Entrepreneur?

The first Indian female entrepreneur is often considered to be Kalpana Saroj. She overcame extreme poverty, early marriage, and social discrimination to build a successful business empire. Saroj is best known for reviving the failing Kamani Tubes company and turning it profitable. Her inspiring journey has made her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Kalpana Saroj – Early Life and Struggles

Kalpana Saroj was born in 1961, Roperkheda, Akola, Maharashtra, into a Marathi Buddhist family. The eldest of five children, she faced early hardships, including being married at the age of 12. After enduring physical abuse from her husband’s family, Saroj was rescued by her father and returned to her village. However, she faced social rejection, which led to an attempted suicide. At the age of 16, she moved to Mumbai to start a new chapter, working in a garment factory to support herself and her family.

Entrepreneurial Journey of Kalpana Saroj

Using a government loan for people from scheduled castes, Kalpana Saroj began her entrepreneurial journey by starting a tailoring business. She then expanded into a furniture store, setting the foundation for her future business ventures. Saroj later ventured into real estate and became known for her entrepreneurial skills.

In 2001, Saroj took over Kamani Tubes, a company that was nearing liquidation. Her leadership and vision helped restructure the company, making it profitable once again. Today, she is regarded as a symbol of determination and success in the business world, with personal assets estimated at $112 million.

Career in Film Industry

In addition to her business ventures, Kalpana Saroj also entered the film industry. She founded KS Film Production and produced her first movie, which was dubbed into several languages, including English, Telugu, and Hindi. One notable film produced under her banner was Khairlanji, directed by Deelip Mhaske, Jyoti Reddy, and Mannan Gore.

Kalpana Saroj – Personal Life

Kalpana Saroj is a follower of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s teachings and identifies as a Buddhist. In 1980, she remarried Samir Saroj, with whom she had two children, Amar and Seema Saroj. Unfortunately, her husband passed away in 1989, and she inherited his steel cupboard manufacturing business, which she managed successfully.

Awards Presented to First Indian Female Entrepreneur

In 2013, Kalpana Saroj was honored with the prestigious Padma Shri Award for her contributions to trade and industry. Her remarkable journey from a small village to becoming a prominent business leader has been widely recognized. She has also been appointed to the board of directors of Bhartiya Mahila Bank and serves on the board of governors of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore.