Sarvesh Shashi: Crafting a Yoga Empire with Zorba

At the tender age of 17, Sarvesh Shashi had an unexpected introduction to the world of yoga when his father, Shashi Kumar, encouraged him to attend classes he had previously enrolled in but couldn’t attend. Little did Sarvesh know that this encounter with yoga would not only transform his mental and physical well-being but also kindle the spirit of entrepreneurship within him. Fast forward nine years, and Sarvesh Shashi is the founder of Zorba, a chain of yoga studios across India, redefining the perception of yoga with a contemporary twist.

Zorba, meaning “living each day to the fullest” in Greek, has become a prominent player in India’s yoga landscape. With 72 studios spread across 41 cities, Zorba stands out by offering a diverse range of yoga forms, including unconventional ones like dance yoga and aqua yoga. Sarvesh’s vision was to create an inclusive space catering to everyone, from toddlers to seniors, with a commitment to toxin-free practices.

What distinguishes Zorba is not only its array of yoga forms but also its luxurious and artistically designed studios. Far from the conventional perception of yoga spaces, Zorba’s studios resemble upscale spas, providing a unique and inviting ambiance. The company boasts 128 specialized trainers dedicated to the various forms of yoga offered, making it a comprehensive destination for yoga enthusiasts.

Sarvesh Shashi’s journey into entrepreneurship was not immediate, and his father, a successful businessman, initially urged him to join the family business. However, Sarvesh, driven by his newfound passion for yoga, chose a different path. Inspired by his own transformative journey through yoga, he envisioned creating a brand that resonates with the younger demographic. Recognizing the need to make yoga more appealing to millennials, Sarvesh sought innovative approaches to attract a broader audience.

Zorba’s success can be attributed to its strategic partnerships and Sarvesh’s astute business decisions. In 2015, Zorba entered into a game-changing deal with Talwalkars, a prominent fitness chain in India. Talwalkars acquired a 50 percent stake in Zorba for $2 million in cash, enabling Zorba to leverage Talwalkars’ extensive network of fitness centers. This collaboration allowed Zorba to establish 68 studios within Talwalkars’ facilities, significantly expanding its reach.

The strategic alliance with Talwalkars not only facilitated national expansion but also provided Sarvesh with a supportive partner for Zorba’s growth. The partnership allowed Zorba to tap into Talwalkars’ expertise while maintaining its unique identity as a yoga-focused brand.

Sarvesh’s entrepreneurial journey reflects a blend of passion, innovation, and strategic collaborations. Zorba’s success goes beyond financial metrics; it symbolizes a shift in the perception of yoga, making it more accessible and appealing to a diverse audience. As Sarvesh Shashi continues to lead Zorba on its path of expansion, his vision extends beyond borders, with plans for international presence and new ventures like Diva Yoga, a collaboration with actor Malaika Arora.

In the realm of wellness and fitness, Sarvesh Shashi has not only built a business but also spearheaded a movement, redefining yoga for a new generation. Zorba stands as a testament to the transformative power of yoga and the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Sarvesh Shashi.