Ora Organic, a startup by Akhil Chaudhary and Nitesh Rathod founded in 2023, with headquarters in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Kheti India conducted an interview with the company’s founders. Akhil and Nitesh with a vision and a pinch of passion started Ora Organics and are now contributing to the agriculture industry making their families, school and college proud.
Akhil and Nitesh are friends from their MBA journey at the Imperial School of Agri-Business. They chose to drop their placements and go on their entrepreneurial journey, which was a bold decision. Let’s look into the minds of these young Agripreneurs –
Background (Family) – Akhil and Nitesh
Akhil Choudhary originates from a village of Saharanpur Uttar Pradesh, while Nitesh hails from the fertile plains of Madhya Pradesh. Both were raised in farming families, deeply connected to the agricultural roots of their regions. This shared heritage fostered a deep bond between them and eventually inspired their collaboration in establishing Ora Organics.
How did you get the idea to start Ora?
Ora Organics was born out of our mutual concern over the declining quality of food and the detrimental effects of conventional farming on both health and the environment. We recognized a significant gap in the market for authentic organic products and, with our backgrounds in farming and passion for well-being, we were naturally inclined toward organic farming. This led us to create a brand that people could rely on for pure, organic food that promotes a healthier lifestyle. Today, we are proud to have connected with over 3,000+ farmers across India, helping them transition to organic practices and ensuring that our products meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
What was your motivation?
Our primary motivation stemmed from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives by offering healthier food choices. We wanted to reconnect people with nature and champion sustainable farming practices that not only benefit the environment but also future generations. This mission became even more personal for us after experiencing the devastating loss of loved ones to illnesses like cancer, which we believe were exacerbated by the harmful chemicals prevalent in the food we consume. The positive feedback from our customers, coupled with the knowledge that we are helping small farmers adopt sustainable agricultural practices, continues to fuel our passion and dedication to this cause.
How is Ora growing today, and what are the major challenges you face in this field?
Ora Organics is experiencing steady growth, with a broader product range and a growing customer base that shares our commitment to health and sustainability. However, we face several challenges, including ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality organic ingredients. Organic farming is more susceptible to environmental factors, making it challenging to maintain strict quality standards. Additionally, educating consumers about the benefits of organic food and raising awareness is a continuous effort.
Entrepreneurs mostly worry about investment; how did you go through this?
Securing investment was challenging, particularly as a startup in the organic food niche. However, our strong belief in our mission and the rising demand for organic products helped us attract like-minded investors. We started small, relying on personal savings and support from family and friends, and expanded as we proved our business model. Our focus was on building a sustainable business that attracted investors interested in long-term growth rather than short-term profits.
Why did you choose to do a startup instead of pursuing placements and working with a company?
We chose to start Ora Organics because of our passion and desire to create something impactful. We wanted to address a genuine problem and make a significant difference. The idea of working on something aligned with our values, with the potential to improve the health and well-being of many, was far more appealing than a traditional corporate job. The challenge and excitement of building something from the ground up was also a key motivator.
What is your target market?
Our target market consists of health-conscious consumers who prioritize natural and organic products. This includes young professionals, families, and older adults looking for healthier lifestyle choices. We also focus on urban areas where awareness of organic food benefits is growing. Additionally, we cater to niche markets like fitness enthusiasts, vegetarians, and those with specific dietary needs.
Your products are organic, and this requires a reliable supply. Where do you procure from, and what challenges do you face?
We source our ingredients from a trusted network of organic farmers across India. We’ve built strong relationships with these farmers to ensure high-quality produce. However, maintaining a consistent supply is challenging due to the nature of organic farming, which is more vulnerable to environmental changes. Logistics and ensuring product freshness are additional challenges we face.
Certifications
Certifications are vital in the organic food industry, offering consumers assurance about product quality. We have secured certifications from recognized bodies such as India Organic, and FSSAI. These certifications involve strict testing and adherence to rigorous guidelines, ensuring that our products maintain the highest organic standards.
What is your long-term vision?
Our long-term vision is to become a globally recognized name in organic food, known for our unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and health. We aim to diversify our product offerings, expand into new markets, and continue innovating in the organic food sector. We also aspire to create a broader impact by supporting more small farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and educating the public on the benefits of organic living.
What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs?
Our advice to young entrepreneurs is to stay true to your passion and remain unwavering in your dedication to your vision, no matter how challenging the journey may be. Surround yourself with supportive mentors, friends, and partners who genuinely believe in your mission. Don’t shy away from taking risks, and be sure to learn from your failures—they are often the greatest teachers.
Conclusion
Above all, dream big—really big—and align your efforts accordingly. Success isn’t solely measured by financial gains; it’s about making a positive impact on the world. If you can achieve that, you’ve already succeeded in the most meaningful way.
As we conclude our chat with Akhil Chaudhary and Nitesh Rathod, it’s evident that Ora Organics is more than just a business—it’s a mission to transform agriculture and promote healthier living. Their journey from farming roots to pioneering organic agriculture showcases the power of passion, resilience, and bold decisions.
Their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: dream big, stay true to your vision, and embrace challenges as opportunities. Ora Organics is not just about success—it’s about making a lasting impact, and Akhil and Nitesh’s journey is a story of purpose and inspiration.