Asal se zyada sood pyara hota hai, i heard many grandparents say this.
Which means, grandchildren are dearer to them more than their own kids.
It was February 2000, and Krishnaveni Bangara Ji was anxiously standing outside the operating theater of a private hospital in Chennai. WHY? Awaiting the arrival of her grandchild. She was holding two lovingly crafted newborn kits (clothes and related products for newborns): one adorned in blue and the other in pink.
When the doctor congratulated her on the birth of a girl, she was overflowing with joy. Krishnaveni Ji immediately presented the pink kit, which had a clothing, baby bed, mittens, and a head cap for the new arrival.
Us waqt unhe nahi pata tha ki this tender moment of love and preparation would spark the beginning of a business that would not only pave her path to financial independence but also provide support to countless new mothers.
Today, at 78, Krishnaveni Ji reflects on her remarkable journey. Her steadfast belief in self-sustenance is the mantra that fuels her spirit even today.
The Background Story
Krishnaveni Ji considers the doctor’s acknowledgment the reason behind her and her business.
Following the surgery, Dr. Shantha, the gynecologist, invited Krishnaveni for a discussion about the newborn clothing she had brought in.
That moment was the beginning. The doctor was impressed by her creations for her grandchild, and within a few days, the hospital contacted me to supply newborn clothing, as they intended to provide the same kit to all new mothers.
Krishnaveni Ji, who has always believed in self-sustenance, describes this as the start of a new chapter in her life. After delivering her first batch of clothes, she felt a sense of independence and enjoyed staying busy.
How She Manages Business in Her Golden Years
Her days after launching Kitty’s Care unfolded as follows:
- A natural early riser, she would awaken at 5 am.
- Completes her household tasks by 10 am.
- Then, start working on newborn clothing.
- She invests 6 hours a day in cutting the fabric and sending it to the tailors. These include nappies, baby towels and more. Everything is stitched with utmost care and love.
HOW?
Our 78-year-old Chennai-based entrepreneur sources cotton and microfibre towels to tailor them according to client specifications. Additionally, she crafts a variety of baby items, including dresses, langots (cloth nappies), jablas (loose tunics for infants), mittens, socks, baby beds, bibs, and dry sheets.
Nothing in the Way: Not Even the Pandemic
Krishnaveni Ji had established a smooth and efficient routine, but everything changed when COVID-19 struck.
Elders and kids were considered most susceptible to the virus, thus, they were forbidden from leaving the house. Krishnaveni Ji’s daughter and grandchildren, too, wanted her to be safe. Thus. they wouldn’t allow her to leave the house for selling the products or to take the products to the tailor.
That’s when she transitioned Kitty’s Care online.
Applying the New Approach
She reached out to customers via phone, directed her tailors to work from home and deliver their products punctually, making sure her clients received their orders on time.
Moreover, she began accepting online payments. Also, with assistance from her grandchildren, she learned how to navigate things online landscape.
Shifting Countries: Not a Big Deal
After the pandemic, Krishnaveni Ji relocated to Muscat, Oman, to join her family, but her business remained active. Leveraging the strong relationships and goodwill she cultivated in Chennai over 24 years, she continued to operate remotely.
Distance was no barrier for her. She adapted, maintained connections, and ensured her business thrived—quietly, confidently, and on her own terms.
How is Kitty’s Care Different from Other Brands?
Krishnaveni Ji’s love and care is evident for her work, but the brand is different because of her input in guiding parents to make the right decision for their kids clothes.
When parents suggest her to use printed clothes, she explained them the importance and benefits of using plain clothes.
A source of relief for the new parents.
Hospitals frequently express that the kits bring immense relief. Many families arrive unprepared, often relying on worn-out clothing. But with a pre-made newborn kit truly transforms their experience.
Initially, she never envisioned a plan or referred to it as a business. Yet, more than two decades later, Krishnaveni Ji has created a meaningful endeavor that fuels her passion, keeps her engaged, and supports others. Perhaps this is the essence of true success.
