Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya: Nurturing a Hemp Revolution with India Hemp & Co

In the vibrant landscape of sustainable entrepreneurship, Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya emerge as trailblazers, steering the helm of India Hemp & Co —a Bengaluru-based start-up that has been making waves since its inception in November 2019. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on hemp-based products, the Bhattacharya sisters are not just entrepreneurs; they are catalysts for change, challenging misconceptions and driving education in the evolving hemp industry.

Established just months before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, India Hemp & Co was founded by Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya with a vision to introduce sustainable hemp products to the Indian market. The startup’s product range includes hemp hearts, protein powder, seed trail mix, and hemp oil—all championing the nutritional benefits and eco-friendly nature of hemp. In a recent expansion, the sisters ventured into the pet industry, launching hemp seed oil for pets, promoting internal and external health for furry companions.

India Hemp & Co’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its diverse product portfolio. Hemp hearts, protein powder, seed trail mix, and hemp oil showcase the versatility of hemp as a nutritious and eco-friendly ingredient. The introduction of hemp seed oil for pets extends this commitment to the animal kingdom, addressing inflammation and promoting joint, heart, and brain health in pets. The startup’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond products; it’s a holistic approach to conscious living.

Despite the success and positive reception of their products, Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya have faced challenges in expanding their reach through online retailers like Amazon and BigBasket. The requirement for FSSAI licenses, which hemp products currently lack, poses a hurdle in meeting customers where they are. Despite these challenges, India Hemp & Co’s online store witnessed remarkable growth, experiencing a 2.5x surge in Q2 2020 as people explored culinary experiments at home. In Q1 2021, online sales continued to thrive, showcasing over 20 percent growth from the previous quarter.

The Bhattacharya sisters recognize that the hemp industry is still in its nascent stages, accompanied by misconceptions that demand constant education. India Hemp & Co has taken on the responsibility of not just selling products but also enlightening consumers about the benefits and realities of hemp. The conversation surrounding hemp has evolved, but Shalini and Jayanti dedicate significant effort to guide new customers through the process of unlearning preconceived notions about hemp.

Expanding their vision, Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya collaborated with partners in Jaipur to launch SoulStir—a hemp-concept kitchen. This venture extends the reach of hemp-infused culinary experiences, showcasing the versatility of hemp in a variety of dishes. It becomes a platform not only for product exploration but also for fostering a community that appreciates and embraces the sustainable potential of hemp.

As India Hemp & Co continues to navigate challenges, the Bhattacharya sisters remain steadfast in their commitment to shaping the narrative of hemp in India. Their efforts go beyond business growth; they are contributing to a cultural shift—one where hemp is recognized for its nutritional, environmental, and economic advantages. With SoulStir, online sales growth, and a resilient dedication to sustainability, Shalini and Jayanti Bhattacharya are at the forefront of nurturing a hemp revolution that transcends products to become a way of life.