Bengaluru Engineer Couple Launches Andhra-style Pickles Startup
In an inspiring tale of entrepreneurship, a Bengaluru-based engineer couple, Sudharshan MK and Pravallika V, have turned their passion for Andhra cuisine into a successful startup. The Pickls, launched in May 2024, is a direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand that offers an array of preservative-free veg and non-veg pickles, made by women in Andhra villages, using ingredients sourced from organic farmers. With an initial investment of just ₹25 lakh, the couple has managed to build a brand that has gained over 8,000 customers globally in just one year.
Sudharshan, an IT engineer by profession, and Pravallika, a software engineer, grew up in a household that cherished Andhra cuisine. Their love for the rich culinary heritage of Andhra Pradesh was instilled in them from a young age. As they grew older, their passion for food only intensified, and they began experimenting with different recipes, including pickles, which are an integral part of Andhra cuisine.
The couple’s journey as entrepreneurs began when they decided to turn their passion into a business. They started researching the pickle industry, identifying gaps in the market, and developing a unique value proposition. They realized that most pickle brands used preservatives and artificial flavor enhancers, which compromised the quality and taste of the pickles. They also noticed that many pickle brands were stuck in traditional manufacturing processes, which didn’t allow for innovation and experimentation.
The Pickls, founded by Sudharshan and Pravallika, aimed to disrupt the pickle industry by offering preservative-free, organic pickles made using traditional Andhra recipes. The couple spent several months developing their recipes, sourcing high-quality ingredients from organic farmers, and setting up a production process that ensured consistency and quality.
To take their business to the next level, the couple turned to social media, leveraging platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase their products and engage with customers. They also participated in food festivals and events, allowing them to connect with potential customers and build brand awareness.
The Pickls’ unique selling proposition (USP) lies in its commitment to quality, sustainability, and rural livelihoods. The brand sources its ingredients from organic farmers, ensuring that the pickles are not only delicious but also healthy. The couple has also partnered with women in Andhra villages to produce the pickles, providing them with a steady income and empowering them to become entrepreneurs.
In just one year, The Pickls has achieved remarkable success, with over 8,000 customers globally. The brand’s growth has been driven by word-of-mouth referrals, online marketing, and strategic partnerships with like-minded brands. Sudharshan and Pravallika have been able to maintain a strong online presence, with a social media following of over 10,000 people.
The Pickls’ success story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the impact it can have on rural communities. By partnering with women in Andhra villages, the couple has not only created a sustainable business model but also empowered these women to become entrepreneurs. The brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and rural livelihoods has resonated with customers, who are willing to pay a premium for products that align with their values.
As The Pickls continues to grow and expand, Sudharshan and Pravallika are committed to maintaining their values and vision. They plan to continue sourcing ingredients from organic farmers and partnering with women in Andhra villages to produce their pickles. The couple is also exploring new markets and products, including superfoods and wellness products, to further diversify their offerings.
In conclusion, The Pickls is a shining example of entrepreneurship, innovation, and social responsibility. By turning their passion for Andhra cuisine into a successful startup, Sudharshan and Pravallika have not only built a brand but also made a positive impact on the lives of rural women. As The Pickls continues to grow and expand, it is clear that this D2C brand will remain committed to its values and vision, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
