HOW VIVEK OBEROI IS DEMOCRATIZING DIAMONDS

Vivek Oberoi, Bollywood star and entrepreneur has seamlessly blend purpose and profit, redefining industries with ventures like Solitario, a lab-grown diamond brand, while championing ethical, sustainable, and impactful business practices.

- BY ARITRA GHOSH

From the glitz and glamour of Bollywood to the gritty and determined world of entrepreneurship, Vivek Oberoi has carved a unique path. In an exclusive conversation with IndianRetailer, Oberoi shared insights into his life as a celebrated actor, a passionate entrepreneur, and a visionary founder who is rewriting the rules of multiple industries.

STAR’S BUSINESS JOURNEY

For Oberoi, the leap from the silver screen to the boardroom wasn’t just about exploring new avenues but also about tackling the economic insecurity that comes with the film industry. “The film industry is one where you can feel like a star one night and forgotten the next,” he said candidly. “One moment, producers and directors are lining up to work with you, and the next, even the number of birthday bouquets you receive becomes a reality check.”

Oberoi’s entrepreneurial journey began with a trailblazing startup in education fee financing. The company reached 12,000 schools and colleges, ultimately connecting with 4.5 million students and families. This venture became a game-changer, valuing the company at $400 million and proving the power of socially conscious businesses.

PURPOSE BEFORE PROFIT

Among Oberoi’s most innovative ventures is Solitario, a lab-grown diamond brand born from a desire to disrupt the traditional diamond industry. “I was deeply affected after watching Blood Diamond. The exploitation of African children and the continent’s resources for natural diamonds disturbed me,” Oberoi revealed. “I wanted to create a guilt-free way for people to enjoy diamonds, combining transparency, ethics, and sustainability.”