Ananya Malhotra got drawn towards crochet during the pandemic. While it was her hobby at first, her growing interest in the craft helped her realise great potential in it and, with it, her ability to turn this hobby into a business.
Today, Malhotra is an entrepreneur and runs a team of people who help her bring more crochet products to the market. In this conversation with SheThePeople, Ananya Malhotra discusses her love for crochet, how she turned her hobby into an entrepreneurial opportunity, why fulfilling her mother's dreams remains her priority and ways in which she is looking to expand her business.
Ananya Malhotra's Journey
‘I discovered my love for crochet during the lockdown in 2020. I was at home and had nothing to do after my board exams. I had learnt crocheting at 10 as a hobby, but never took it up seriously, but during the lockdown, I took it up again to pass some time and surprisingly, I fell in love with the craft!
Since everyone was trying their hand at selling cute scrunchies during the period, I decided to give it a shot too! With just an Instagram page and lots of determination, I started making scrunchies and hairbands.
I didn’t tell my closest friends about it at first because crochet was considered something only older people did. But within a week, I got a big order, and my business took off.
Within six months of starting my business, I bought myself an iPhone with my hard-earned money. I couldn’t believe it. Financial freedom truly felt empowering.
As my Instagram page grew, I expanded my offerings, moving into clothing, and began working with underprivileged women. Today, I lead a team of 20 women, turning my passion into a successful business that not only fulfils my dreams but also empowers others.
But what makes my story truly heartwarming is that I used my earnings to help my mother fulfil her dream of a trip to Europe. Despite facing judgment and scepticism from others, my story is proof of the power of determination and following our passions. It’s a story of breaking free from stereotypes and proving that age-old hobbies can be turned into successful businesses that make a positive impact on the lives of others. My journey is an inspiration for anyone looking to chase their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem at first.’
Suggested reading: Age Can't Limit Me: At 90, Swarn Kanwar Weaves Magic With Crochet
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