Startups Corner: Ajhatka or two from small town entrepreneurial aspirations!

Ritesh Agarwal and Vikram Sharma, two aspiring young entrepreneurs from a far-flung hamlet of Bengal and co-founders of Lime Jhatka, have recently been honoured with the Startup Award at an event celebrating New Age Startups in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

- RITWIK MUKHERJEE

The award was presented by the Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu.

The journey of Lime Jhatka began with a personal mission. Ritesh and Vikram, wanted to provide a healthier alternative to traditional sodas. Thus came Lime Jhatka just before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic brought unexpected challenges, including market closures and rising costs. However, the duo persisted and restructured their strategy, focusing on ethnic Indian drinks and targeting the eastern states. Their efforts paid off, with Lime Jhatka achieving record-breaking sales and a growing presence in new markets. Lime Jhatka's unique blend of Indian spices and herbs set it apart in the competitive soft drinks segment.

Speaking to The Statesman, Ritesh shares their success story, which according to him, is a testament to the power of vision and determination, and their road ahead.

Excerpts:

Q: How and when did you set out on your entrepreneurial journey?