Chinu Kala is a name that resonates with success, resilience, and determination. She is a self-made entrepreneur who defied societal norms and rose to become a leading figure in the fashion and jewelry industry. From humble beginnings to becoming the founder of Rubans Fashion Accessories, Chinu’s story is one of inspiration and motivation. Through her dedication and hard work, she became a finalist in Gladrags and discovered her passion for the fashion industry.
With Rubans, she has created a brand that is not only fashionable but also embraces cultural diversity. Chinu’s entrepreneurial journey has been recognized and applauded, and she has received numerous accolades for her achievements. Today, Chinu Kala stands tall as a beacon of hope for all those who aspire to break the stereotypes and achieve their dreams.
Early Life and Struggle
Born on 10th October 1981, in Rajasthan, Chinu had no formal education, but a strong desire to do something big and make a name for herself. Growing up, Chinu’s mother worked abroad, leaving her to live with her father and sister. However, after a disagreement with her father, Chinu left home with the determination not to return until she made a name for herself.
Her early days on the road were tough, and she survived only on a pack of milk and vada pao. But her zeal and determination to make a name in the world kept her going forward. Chinu’s first job was as a door-to-door saleswoman, earning only Rs. 20 a day, which was barely enough to afford one meal a day. But she never gave up and kept pushing forward.
In 2000, Chinu started working as a saleswoman in an apparel store in Ghatkopar. However, to meet her expenses, she also worked as a waitress in a local restaurant. Chinu’s struggles continued for six long years, but she never lost hope and always believed that her hard work would pay off one day.
The Big Break
In 2006, after years of hardships, Chinu finally got her big break when she participated in Gladrags, where she was among the finalists. This event sparked her interest in the jewellery and fashion industry, and she decided to start her own brand.
However, starting a brand was not easy, and there were many hurdles to overcome. In those days, the retail business was happening primarily through high streets, and the waiting period for a location was up to three years, and a massive deposit was required. Chinu had stocks but no money. Despite the challenges, Chinu convinced the mall management to give her one month to furnish the deposit money. With her determination and hard work, Chinu managed to start her own brand, Rubans Fashion Accessories. The day Rubans opened, there had been no turning back since that day. It had a record sale on the first day, enough to pay her deposit monies quickly.
Rubans, whose official retail store is in Forum Mall, Bengaluru, won The Star Debutant Retail Award in 2016. Nowadays, Rubans retails through its store in Lulu Mall, Kochi, and online portals such as Myntra and Flipkart. Its website helps cater to the growing demands of fashion accessories across Tier 2 and 3 geographies in the country.
Awards and Achievements
Chinu Kala’s entrepreneurial journey with Rubans Fashion Accessories has been nothing short of a phenomenal success story. Her tireless efforts and determination to succeed have earned her numerous awards and recognitions.
In 2016, Rubans won The Star Debutant Retail Award. Myntra, one of India’s leading online fashion portals, recognized Rubans as the Best Jewellery brand. Recently, the brand won the Debutant Retailer Award by Franchise India.
Chinu’s success and achievements have earned her a place on the prestigious Forbes India’s 30 under 30 list in 2018, which recognizes young and talented leaders across various industries. She was also featured in the Economic Times’ 40 under 40 list of India’s most influential entrepreneurs in 2020.
With her dedication, passion, and hard work, Chinu Kala has become a source of inspiration and motivation for many young entrepreneurs. Her story of overcoming adversity and achieving success is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
Chinu’s Philosophy and Vision
Chinu has been deeply inspired by the Hindu philosophy of ‘Vasudeva Kutumbakam.’ Her company has incorporated the free flow of thoughts and designs from all over the world in its collections. It is one of the rare companies that offer us a wide choice of products in both western and ethnic categories, catering to the consumer’s styles, trends, and seasonal demands. Considering Indian weddings are incomplete without traditional jewelry, Rubans has designed and curated a luxury collection that backs the forgotten traditional and vintage designs appropriate for Indian weddings.
In conclusion, Chinu Kala’s journey is a true testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and hard work. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, she never lost sight of her dream to make a name for herself and create something truly remarkable. Her passion for fashion, creativity, and eye for detail have propelled Rubans to great heights, making it a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry.
Chinu Kala’s story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women who face a multitude of obstacles in their pursuit of success. She is a true leader, who has not only built a successful business but has also paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps. Her dedication, hard work, and unwavering spirit are qualities that make her a true inspiration and a leader in every sense of the word.
