Started with just Rs 2 lakh, now runs a Rs 10000 crore empire, meet...

Mira Kulkarni is the founder and managing director of Forest Essentials. She is the pioneer in introducing one-of-a-kind beauty products in the Indian market. 

Mira's 20s were filled with challenges as her marriage fell apart due to her husband's failing businesses and rising alcoholism. She decided to move back with her parents. 

She moved in with her parents with her two children. However, the biggest shock came when she lost both of her parents at the young age of 28. 

After marrying off her daughter and getting her settled, Mira, at 45, discovered a hobby that soon became a passionate career, candle making and soap making. 

Mira founded Forest Essentials in 2000 with just Rs 2 lakh. She had two employees and her first office was her garage.

She sourced natural ingredients from Uttarakhand's Tehri Gharwal region and had a vision of providing the essence of Ayurveda with her products. 

In 2008, Forest Essentials partnered with Estee Lauder Companies and soon became a luxury brand connected with lavish hotels like Hotel Taj and Hyatt. 

Forest Essentials can be found at luxury Hotel chains like Taj and Hyatt and spas worldwide. As per Kodak Wealth Kurun 2020, Mira Kulkarni has a net worth of Rs 1,290 crore.