In this modern world everything is depend upon technology and other faster means to complete work whether it is personal or professional, removing the traditional way of doing things from one’s life. In order to save time people have adopted unhealthy food habits unknowingly exposing themselves to the chronic diseases. To save young generation and guide them towards the better and healthy diet, Akshi Khandelwal founded Butterfly Ayurveda in 2014 which is dedicated to researching, developing, manufacturing, and marketing Ayurvedic products, including teas, herbal infusions, medicines, supplements, and Ayurveda-inspired bakery products such as cakes and cookies.
Recognizing a lack of awareness about Ayurveda in her surroundings and worldwide, Akshi embarked on a mission to bring about a change in the way people perceive health.
In an interview, Akshi said, “At Butterfly Ayurveda, we develop a holistic range of wellness products that can be integrated into the modern-day lifestyle and routines. We believe in an ever-changing life and work process that helps us realise our true potential.”
She said that at Butterfly Ayurveda, the focus is on developing a holistic range of wellness products that seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles and routines. They believe in constant growth and the realisation of one’s true potential. Their vision is to provide individuals with holistic solutions that address lifestyle-related ailments and promote overall wellness.
Let’s read what Akshi has to say further about the journey of Butterfly Ayurveda in conversation with Opportunity India.
What were the challenges you encountered while running this business?
Akshi: It is natural to face challenges when you foray into new subject in the field of business and running this business has posed several challenges that we successfully addressed.
Building the team was a significant challenge due to the need for more understanding and knowledge of Ayurveda among team members.
Working out a robust marketing strategy for our diverse range of products was another obstacle, as the traditional business model of medical representatives visiting doctors or using retail outlets for our FMCG product range could have been more profitable for the company.
We faced the challenge of working out an efficient model and plan for establishing a Good manufacturing practice (GMP).
Reinventing the packaging of our products was also a challenge we encountered. Lastly, there has been more reliance on external parties for marketing and sales, which needed to be addressed.
How does the business model work?
Akshi: We operate as a D2C brand, and our website serves as a platform for supplying our products throughout Pan India and other parts of the world. Furthermore, we distribute our products through multiple popular e-commerce portals.
With a diverse set of manufacturing capabilities, we provide services for new product development, third-party manufacturing, and white labelling in the Ayurvedic and herbal tea, cookie, and supplement categories.
Does your company offer any insights that entrepreneurs can learn from?
Akshi: Yes, our company provides insights into the making of a highly unique brand. We have gathered inputs from a diverse range of sectors and industries, which we have transformed into a comprehensive, holistic wellness experience for our customers.
What lessons have you learned so far on this journey?
Akshi: The lesson of utmost importance is that of listening to and trusting your inner voice. As a founder, only you would know the right direction to move the brand and business forward. On the other hand, it is equally important to continuously work upon increasing your knowledge base, and developing skill sets that will help ensure effective decision making.
Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs?
Akshi: I advise young entrepreneurs to enhance their knowledge in areas that are not their strengths. By expanding your knowledge base and skill set, you can effectively tackle challenges and make well-informed decisions for your business.
How do you compete with well-established service providers in your sector?
Akshi: We differentiate ourselves from well-established service providers in our sector through our diverse and unique range of products and services. Additionally, our brand communication sets us apart from others in the industry.
Our holistic range of products which range from Ayurvedic Teas, Herbal infusions, Ayurvedic medicines, and supplements to Ayurveda-inspired bakery products such as freshly baked cookies and cakes, is a unique yet diverse set of Ayurveda based wellness products that can be easily incorporated in one’s daily diet regimen, and enjoyed for better health, and good quality of life. Moreover, all of these products make for great gifts and enable customers to celebrate special occasions healthily and share a token of appreciation or friendship more meaningfully.
Further, we organise wellness events for its customers from time to time that includes experiential workshops and webinars on Yoga, Martial Arts, Mental Health, and Ayurveda to foster physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The learnings from these workshops can be easily integrated into the daily life schedule to improve one’s overall health.
Moreover, the upcoming online platform, - BA Clinics, intends to build a community of reliable and experienced set of Ayurveda healthcare professionals, including ayurveda doctors, nutritionists, and fitness experts, and connect them to our customers from pan India to help them access seasoned and affordable consultation for their health issues.
Our brand communication strategy revolves around forging deep connections with our customers on an intimate level, as we believe that the core of a healthy self lies within. We maintain transparent and engaging communication rooted in the wisdom of understanding the complex interplay of the body, mind, and spirit. This approach keeps our communication alive, functional, and meaningful.
