Harini Shivkumar, a former banker from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has emerged as a shining example of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Her journey from a homemaker to the founder and CEO of Earth Rhythm, a flourishing brand in the realm of sustainable skincare, is truly inspiring. Harini’s career initially unfolded in the banking sector, but her life took an unexpected turn when she married at the age of 22 and became a devoted mother. However, in 2010, a pivotal moment arrived when her child was diagnosed with Down syndrome. Driven by a profound desire to provide the best possible care for her child, Harini made the challenging decision to leave her job and dedicate herself fully to her family.
During this period, Harini encountered a significant obstacle – the difficulty in finding safe skincare products for her child amidst a market saturated with chemical-laden alternatives. Unsatisfied with the available options, she decided to take matters into her own hands. In 2015, Harini embarked on a journey to create safe skincare formulations. Leveraging her spare time as her son began schooling, she diligently started developing products and showcasing them at local exhibitions and community gatherings.
The initial venture, Soapworks India, humbly began in a small room within her house in Delhi in 2017. Harini single-handedly managed every aspect of the business, from production to packaging and delivery. A turning point arrived in 2018 when Harini’s father, Mr. Shivkumar, joined her in the business, signifying a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. Together, they rebranded as Earth Rhythm, emphasizing sustainability and the use of natural ingredients.
Despite starting with a modest team of eight women in a small office, Earth Rhythm experienced rapid growth, witnessing a significant increase in its customer base within just two years. Earth Rhythm currently offers a comprehensive range of 160 products, including their popular shampoo bar—a plastic-free alternative that embodies their commitment to sustainability. The company adheres to a strict zero-waste policy, utilizing only natural ingredients in their formulations. While Harini oversees manufacturing, her father expertly manages finance and sales operations.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Harini emphasizes that her success is attainable by anyone with the determination to pursue their dreams. In a recent interview, she attributed her success to her belief in starting small and working diligently towards her goals. From her initial home-based operations, Earth Rhythm has established its own manufacturing unit and has achieved a remarkable valuation of Rs 200 crore.
