Dviti Bhalla, born in Mumbai in 1976, has forged a remarkable path marked by resilience and creativity. A graduate of Mumbai University in 1997, Dviti is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a talented artist and Bharatnatyam dancer. Her journey through life has been anything but straightforward; it’s a tale of perseverance in the face of adversity.
At the young age of 19, Dviti married, balancing her studies and early responsibilities. However, circumstances soon forced her into a difficult reality. “I was in an abusive relationship, which ultimately led to my separation in 2005,” she recalls. This separation came with immense personal sacrifice; she was compelled to remain away from her children for six long years. “That period was my true struggle, as I found myself alone and without any support,” she reflects, showcasing the strength that would later define her entrepreneurial spirit.
Slowly, Dviti adapted to her new circumstances. A pivotal moment arrived when a friend helped her secure a position in the television industry. “I started working as an executive producer on a reality show, my first opportunity coming from Sanjiv Kapoor’s Food & Food Network,” she shares. This role would lead to nearly a decade in television, during which she contributed to popular shows like “Indian Idol,” “MasterChef India,” and “Ex-Factor India.”
Despite her success, health challenges forced Dviti to reevaluate her career path. After undergoing surgery, she took a step back from the frenetic pace of the television industry. “At that time, my son was pursuing his master’s degree in Prague, and I needed to visit him,” she explains. This hiatus became a turning point, prompting Dviti to explore her long-held desire to start her own business. “I had always wanted to venture into entrepreneurship, but the right opportunity never seemed to present itself,” she says.
In 2008, while still working in television, Dviti met her second husband, a photographer on set. Their bond deepened, and when she decided to pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions, he and her children fully supported her. “Once I decided to start my own business, there was no turning back,” she affirms. In 2017, Dviti began her foray into soap making, a venture that would eventually flourish in the sunny backdrop of Goa.
The move to Goa in 2019 was strategic and heartfelt. “Goa had always been on our bucket list. My husband is from Chandigarh, and I’m from Gujarat, but we longed for a warm climate,” she shares, adding a touch of personal warmth to her narrative. It was also her aunt’s encouragement, who was already in the soap-making business, that ignited Dviti’s entrepreneurial spirit. “After I left my job in 2017, I felt a push from my family, which propelled me into this venture,” she explains.
However, transitioning from a secure job to starting a business was not without its challenges. “For nearly a year, I struggled. I started with small batches, selling what I could manage and then restocking. My production unit was in Mumbai, which meant a lot of travel back and forth,” Dviti recalls. Despite facing initial setbacks and financial losses, her determination never wavered. “I knew I had to keep pushing forward,” she says resolutely.
Ultimately, Dviti established her company, Nature’s Point, under the brand name Merak Naturals. “Our brand specializes in soaps, shower gels, and body washes that stand out from conventional offerings,” she explains. Dviti emphasizes that her products utilize unique formulations that incorporate glycerin extracts, setting them apart in a saturated market.
As her business expanded, Dviti diversified her product range to include hair care items such as shampoos, hair masks, and serums. “We are also set to launch travel kits, face packs, and hair tonics soon,” she shares, reflecting her ambition to offer a comprehensive line of natural beauty products. Importantly, Dviti has applied for a Khadi license, which will further legitimize her commitment to organic and sustainable practices. “We prioritize using oils, butter, and natural fragrances while avoiding preservatives,” she asserts.
The quality of Dviti’s products speaks for itself. “Our items are designed to last longer than a year thanks to the organic ingredients we use,” she explains proudly. For instance, her best-selling hair oil features an impressive blend of 32 herbs and five oils, enriched with vitamin E. “The feedback from my friends and family has been overwhelmingly positive,” she adds.
Marketing her products has been a grassroots effort. “I currently rely on my social media presence, with about 1,500 followers on Instagram and Facebook,” Dviti explains. Initially, she participated in pop-up events and exhibitions to gain traction, but now she has secured partnerships with three dealers in Goa and is negotiating with a fourth in Jhansi. “The challenge has been sourcing raw materials in larger quantities, which can affect pricing,” she acknowledges.
Dviti credits her husband as her rock during this journey. “He assists me with branding and design, and I’ve recently hired a team to manage our social media content and marketing strategies,” she reveals. Her expertise has also attracted inquiries for consultations on hair and skin issues, reflecting her growing reputation in the field.
Looking ahead, Dviti has ambitious plans to broaden her customer base. “I aim to partner with boutique hotels and private villas, and expanding our dealer network is a priority,” she explains. She also wants to raise awareness about the differences between natural and organic products. “Once I secure my KVIC license, I’ll approach hotels to introduce our offerings,” she adds.
Dviti Bhalla’s journey is just beginning. With her strong will and determination, she is set to make significant strides in the wellness industry. As she continues to pursue her dreams, she remains committed to overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities, proving that resilience and passion can indeed lead to success.
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