Umesh Singh: Illuminating Success in the Scented Candle Industry

The scented candle industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation, evolving from mere utility to becoming an integral part of home décor, with fragrances like lavender, rosemary, and masala chai adding an enchanting touch. As the global scented candle market gears up to reach a market value of $5.4 billion by 2032, India’s domestic demand for these aromatic creations has surged, driven by the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy and the charm of festive gifting. Amidst this trend, Mumbai-based Tara Candles has emerged as a leading player, crafting a diverse array of 156 aroma candles and serving esteemed clientele, including renowned 5-star hotel chains like ITC Hotels.

In an exclusive interview with SMBStory, Umesh Singh, the co-founder of Tara Candles, delves into the evolution of the scented candle market in India and narrates his two-decade-long journey of mastering the art of candle making, culminating in the establishment of his successful enterprise.

Kindling the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Umesh Singh’s entrepreneurial journey, spanning over two decades, has been a testament to determination, perseverance, and creative passion. Breaking away from the conventional career trajectory, Umesh embarked on the path of entrepreneurship after completing his graduation in organic chemistry. A man of creativity and ambition, he ventured into the handmade paper-making business but encountered challenges in understanding the market dynamics and ultimately faced a setback.

Hailing from a family of educators, doctors, and administrators, Umesh’s decision to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams marked a departure from conventional expectations. His journey took a turn in 2005 when he received an order from Emirates airlines for scented candles. Rather than opting for the easier route of reselling pre-made candles, Umesh and his wife, Richa, took on the challenge of crafting the candles themselves. Although their initial attempt resulted in imperfect candles, this experience became a valuable learning opportunity and laid the foundation for Tara Candles’ future success.

From Humble Beginnings to Hotel Partnerships

Umesh’s dedication to mastering the art of candle making bore fruit when Tara Candles earned its first significant order from JW Marriott and Taj. The hospitality industry’s recognition of the brand’s quality and uniqueness solidified its position and instilled confidence in Umesh’s vision. Reflecting on the journey, Umesh emphasizes that the hotel industry serves as a litmus test for quality, and Tara Candles’ ability to maintain long-term partnerships in this sector speaks volumes about its exceptional products.

Tara Candles’ distinctive appeal lies in its product line, boasting over 15,000 SKUs, a testament to its commitment to diversity and creativity. By differentiating itself from competitors through quality and variety, Tara Candles has sustained its position as a leader in the scented candle market.

An Indian Essence

Umesh’s deep-rooted connection with his country is evident in Tara Candles’ products. Each candle is uniquely named using a Hindi alphabet, embodying Umesh’s pride in India’s heritage and his desire to showcase the nation’s diverse fragrances to the world. This commitment to authenticity has resonated with customers, creating a distinctive identity for Tara Candles.

As Tara Candles continues to shine bright on the global stage, Umesh Singh’s journey stands as a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and a deep appreciation for one’s roots. With expansion plans into new markets and a growing D2C presence, Tara Candles is poised to illuminate homes worldwide, one fragrant candle at a time.