Visionary India

How has your journey with Harit Mantra changed you personally and professionally?

My journey with Harit Mantra has been truly transformative. Personally, I feel immense joy seeing people grow and eat organic vegetables using our compost—it’s fulfilling when clients share their results and appreciation. Professionally, moments like spotting my packets in nurseries or on people’s scooters make me proud. It’s a reminder that I’m building something real, rooted in purpose, and creating impact that grows every day.

What inspired you to start Harit Mantra, and what problem were you hoping to solve?

Harit Mantra was born from a realization I had in Canada—people of old age lived healthier lives because of their connection with nature and organic food. They had beautiful lawns and backyards. Returning to India, I saw the opposite: chemicals in food, poor soil health, and little access to nature in tier 1 2 cities. I started Harit Mantra to make organic living accessible again—by improving soil health, promoting home gardening and bringing people closer to nature through 100% organic compost.

What's something unique about the way Harit Mantra operates that you think more people should know?

Harit Mantra has largely been run by just the two founders over the past year, with support from some local ladies. What makes us proudest is our personal connection with every customer. We take full accountability for each order, ensuring it’s delivered smoothly and that our customers are satisfied. Any issues are addressed personally, and their feedback is actively used to improve our products and service. This hands-on approach keeps us grounded and constantly learning.

Kshitij, can you share a memorable story about your journey of building Harit Mantra or any interesting story that shaped you?

A memorable moment for me was at a major business convention in Chandigarh. As soon as I introduced myself, several attendees approached me, saying, “So this is your brand—we love your products!” It was a powerful realization of how many people I was impacting through Harit Mantra. That day, I truly understood that by delivering 100% high-quality, organic products, I’m not just selling compost—I’m positively affecting lives and helping people reconnect with nature.

What are some achievements, milestones, or proud moments you've experienced with Harit Mantra that you'd love people to know about?

We’ve been operating for just about a year, and honestly, my biggest milestone has been the learning how the business works. I’ve learned how to convince people to choose pure compost and even persuade shopkeepers to prioritize quality over profits. My biggest achievement, though, is the love I receive from customers who share how well their plants have grown using our compost. And seeing Harit Mantra packs sitting on the shelves of the biggest nurseries in my city, that’s a feeling of pride.

What's one challenge you've faced as a business owner, and how did it shape your outlook on leadership or growth?

The biggest challenge I faced or am still facing is getting sales for my business. Local nursery owners preferred profits over quality and when me and my partner decided to start the business, our first promise was on the purity and good quality. It was hard to convince shopkeepers to buy from us and not from the other vendors who sell crap. I learned to lead with patience, consistency, and transparency—focusing on awareness and long-term relationships instead of quick wins.

Outside of work, what's one hobby or passion that keeps you grounded or help you in anyway?

One hobby that truly keeps me grounded is traveling. Whenever I get a day or two off, I just head to the bus station and hop on any random bus. I love exploring the remote mountain villages, away from the noise. Even today, whenever I feel stressed or stuck, I travel—it’s my way to reset. Sitting quietly on a cliff, surrounded by nature, feels like therapy. Every time I return, I feel refreshed, clear-headed, and ready to take on my daily challenges again.

Kshitij, do you have a favorite book, movie, or quote that reflects your values or entrepreneurial mindset?

When I was a child, one of my friend had a quite written in his notebook, it said, 'luck is like a lift and hardwork is like stairs. The lift may fall down but the stairs will always take you to the top'. This quote has always made me focus on hardwork rather than rely on the luck to get better results. There are times when I see people of my age getting successful in business and I feel low but this quote always pushes me to keep climbing the stairs.

Who has been your biggest influence or role model in business or life, and why?

The biggest role model in my life has been my Nanaji. He built his business entirely from scratch and went through countless ups and downs along the way. Despite facing serious challenges—even encounters with the underworld—he managed to rise above it all and become a successful businessman of his time. Whenever he shares his experiences, I feel deeply inspired. He’s the person I turn to whenever I face challenges, and his resilience continues to guide me in both business and life.

Looking ahead, what's your dream vision for Harit Mantra in the next 5 years?

I want to build Harit Mantra a synonym for organic plant care in home gardening. I want people to refer to Harit Mantra only whenever they need any help with Home Gardening. My dream is to see our products in every nursery, every terrace garden, and every home that believes in pure living. Beyond sales, the vision is to make Harit Mantra a movement that reconnects India with nature, starting right from its soil.

Is there any website/app or any other link you want to share with readers of this interview at Visionary India?

You must visit www.haritmantra.com to find our products. Other than that, follow us on Instagram www.instagram.com/haritmantra to see how we’re helping people grow greener, healthier gardens.

What do you want to tell your future team members or collaborators?

Let's build Harit Mantra great together. Every mistake is a new learning and everyday is a new opportunity.

What is Harit Mantra doing differently than your competitors?

Harit Mantra stands out by focusing on purity, education, and community, not just sales. Unlike competitors who prioritize volume or shortcuts, we ensure every batch of compost is 100% organic, chemical-free, and nutrient-rich. We also guide our customers on soil health and sustainable gardening, creating a lasting impact beyond the product.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone building a startup today, based on your own experience, what would it be?

I have always lived my life without any regrets. Whenever I am confused whether I should do something or not, I just think what will I regret more, taking this chance or letting it go.