In early 2023, Kyari, a sustainable plant-based home decor and gardening brand, captured national attention on Shark Tank India. Founders Ankit Kumar and Nitin Kalra pitched their eco-friendly products, securing a deal that propelled their startup into the spotlight. Based in Noida, India, Kyari’s innovative approach to combining sustainability with affordability has reshaped the gardening industry. This article explores Kyari’s rise, its founders’ vision, financial milestones, and why its success matters for India’s startup ecosystem.
Table of Contents
From Passion to Pitch: The Founders’ Story
Ankit Kumar and Nitin Kalra, both in their early 30s, founded Kyari in 2018 with a shared love for nature. Kumar, an engineer with a knack for product design, and Kalra, a marketing expert, identified a gap in India’s gardening market: eco-friendly, accessible products. Their flagship offerings—self-watering planters and biodegradable pots—cater to urban millennials seeking sustainable lifestyles.
The duo bootstrapped Kyari for years, operating from a small Noida workshop. Their Shark Tank India appearance in Season 2 marked a turning point. Pitching to a panel of seasoned investors, they showcased Kyari’s growth: ₹1.5 crore in annual revenue and a 300% year-on-year growth rate. Their authenticity and data-driven pitch won over the Sharks.
“Kyari’s focus on sustainability resonates with India’s growing eco-conscious consumer base,” said Ritesh Agarwal, OYO Rooms founder, in a 2023 startup conference, highlighting the brand’s market fit.
The Shark Tank Deal: Funding Breakthrough
Kyari secured a ₹75 lakh deal for 5% equity from Sharks Anupam Mittal and Vineeta Singh, valuing the company at ₹15 crore. The deal included ₹50 lakh in equity and ₹25 lakh in debt, providing Kyari with capital to scale operations. Post-Shark Tank, Kyari’s website traffic surged by 400%, and sales doubled within three months, according to a 2023 Economic Times report.
The funding enabled Kyari to expand its product line, including vertical garden kits and smart planters. It also strengthened their supply chain, reducing production costs by 20%. This deal exemplifies how Shark Tank India fuels small businesses, with over 70% of Season 2 startups reporting growth post-show, per a 2023 YourStory study.
Net Worth and Financial Growth
Kyari’s net worth is estimated at ₹20–25 crore as of May 2025, based on its post-Shark Tank valuation and revenue growth. The company reportedly hit ₹5 crore in annual revenue in 2024, driven by e-commerce sales on Amazon and Flipkart. While exact profit margins remain private, industry analysts estimate Kyari’s EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) at 10–15%, typical for D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) startups.
Kyari’s financial success underscores India’s booming D2C market, projected to reach $100 billion by 2027, per a 2024 Bain & Company report. By leveraging digital platforms, Kyari has tapped into this growth, competing with brands like Ugaoo and TrustBasket.
Source: kyari.co
Case Study: Kyari’s Sustainable Innovation
Kyari’s biodegradable planters, made from coconut coir and natural fibers, decompose within 12 months, reducing plastic waste. A 2024 case study by IIM Bangalore highlighted Kyari’s supply chain efficiency, noting that 80% of its raw materials are sourced from local farmers, boosting rural economies. This model aligns with India’s sustainability goals, as the country aims to reduce single-use plastics by 2030.
For example, Kyari’s “Plantable Seed Pots” allow users to plant the pot directly into soil, where it decomposes and nourishes the plant. This innovation has earned Kyari partnerships with NGOs like SankalpTaru, promoting urban afforestation.
Why Kyari’s Success Matters
Kyari’s journey reflects the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Its Shark Tank success highlights how media platforms can amplify small businesses, driving economic growth. For consumers, Kyari offers affordable, sustainable alternatives in a market dominated by plastic-heavy products. For India’s startup ecosystem, Kyari’s rise signals the potential of D2C brands to scale globally while addressing environmental challenges.
The broader implication is clear: sustainable startups can thrive commercially. With India’s green economy projected to create 50 million jobs by 2070, per a 2024 NITI Aayog report, Kyari is a blueprint for balancing profit and planet.
Financial Snapshot: Kyari’s Key Metrics
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2018 |
| Revenue (2024) | ₹5 crore (estimated) |
| Valuation (2023) | ₹15 crore (post-Shark Tank) |
| Funding Raised | ₹75 lakh (Shark Tank deal) |
| Net Worth (2025) | ₹20–25 crore (estimated) |
FAQ: Kyari’s Rise Explained
Who founded Kyari?
Ankit Kumar and Nitin Kalra, two Noida-based entrepreneurs, started Kyari in 2018.
What was Kyari’s Shark Tank deal?
Kyari secured ₹75 lakh for 5% equity from Anupam Mittal and Vineeta Singh in 2023.
What products does Kyari sell?
Kyari offers self-watering planters, biodegradable pots, vertical garden kits, and smart planters.
Is Kyari profitable?
While exact profits are undisclosed, Kyari’s estimated EBITDA is 10–15%, indicating profitability.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Startups
Kyari’s Shark Tank triumph is more than a startup success story—it’s a testament to the potential of sustainable innovation in India. From a bootstrapped venture to a ₹20-crore brand, Ankit Kumar and Nitin Kalra have shown that eco-friendly products can win both markets and hearts. As India’s D2C and green economies grow, Kyari’s journey offers a roadmap for entrepreneurs aiming to blend purpose with profit. Its story reminds us that small ideas, when nurtured, can bloom into global solutions.
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Last Updated on Friday, May 9, 2025 4:19 pm by Aarti Kumari
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