In the ever-evolving world of nutraceuticals, few stories capture the essence of perseverance and innovation like that of Sailesh Ganduri, the visionary founder of FamNutra. Born in a remote village, Sailesh’s journey from an employee disheartened by failures to a pioneering entrepreneur is an inspiring testament to resilience, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to health and wellness.
The Genesis of a Dream
Sailesh Ganduri’s story begins in 2015, on a seemingly ordinary Thursday evening that would forever change his life. At that time, Sailesh was a passionate young man with dreams of revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry to provide affordable health solutions. However, his aspirations were met with a devastating blow when he was scammed out of 25 lakhs in a pharmaceutical firm deal. “My confidence ripped, faith teared, and my childhood dream shattered,” he recalls with palpable emotion.
The loss was not just financial but deeply personal, as it represented the crushing of his dream to use his knowledge for the betterment of society. In the face of such adversity, it was his mother’s unwavering support and wisdom that rekindled his spirit. “Dhairye, Sahasa Lakshmi” (Fear Not What You Lost! Be Fearless to What You Aim), she would remind him. These words of encouragement became his mantra, guiding him through the darkest phases of his journey.
The Path of Perseverance
Despite the emotional and financial setback, Sailesh’s determination to make a difference never waned. However, life threw another curveball his way in 2016 when he was fired from his job in Research & Development (R&D). This period was marked by intense introspection and struggle, as Sailesh grappled with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about his future. “My confidence drained and esteem dented with belittling and frequent fault
finding,” he reflects on his challenging days at work.
In 2017, in an effort to regain his footing, Sailesh joined another company. However, the job was merely a stopgap solution, providing neither satisfaction nor a sense of purpose. It wasn’t until 2018 that a pivotal moment reignited his passion. A major change in a co-worker’s food habits piqued his interest. As Sailesh delved deeper, he discovered the transformative potential of the superfood millet. Armed with his pharmaceutical background, he immersed himself in research, eager to unlock the myriad health benefits of this ancient grain.
FamNutra’s Early Days
By 2019, Sailesh’s relentless research culminated in the founding of FamNutra. His initial product, Korramill, a millet-based vermicelli, was a step towards bringing the benefits of millet to a broader audience. Despite his enthusiasm and hard work, Korramill failed to gain traction in the market. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 further exacerbated the challenges, bringing his fledgling business to a standstill.
In these trying times, Sailesh once again turned to his mother’s advice: “Think Beyond.” This period of reflection and learning led him to deepen his understanding of millet and explore new ways to harness its potential. “I became a student of research one more time on this superfood expedition,” Sailesh recounts. His perseverance and dedication paid off when, in 2023, he received a 50 lakh INR grant from BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research
Assistance Council) for his innovation in the nutraceutical industry.
The Birth of Blissbody
Armed with newfound resources and an unyielding resolve, Sailesh embarked on a mission to create a product that would truly make a difference. In 2024, FamNutra launched Blissbody, India’s first-ever fermented millet drink. This innovative beverage is not just another health drink; it represents the culmination of years of research, trials, and an unwavering commitment to enhancing health and wellness.
Blissbody stands out in the crowded market for several reasons:
- Sugar-Free: In an era where lifestyle diseases like diabetes are on the rise, Bliss body caters to health conscious individuals by eliminating sugar, making it an ideal choice for those managing diabetes.
- Gut Health: The fermentation process enhances the probiotic content, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and improving digestion. This focus on gut health is crucial, given the growing awareness of the gut’s role in overall well-being.
- Nutrient-Rich: Millet, the core ingredient, is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to overall health.
- Natural Ingredients: Blissbody is crafted with natural, high-quality ingredients, ensuring purity and efficacy, appealing to the increasing consumer demand for clean and natural products.
Lessons in Entrepreneurship
Sailesh’s journey is rich with lessons that resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators:
- Passion: “Passion is like fire in the belly. Even water or wind can’t put it off.” Sailesh’s relentless drive and enthusiasm for his work have been the bedrock of his entrepreneurial journey.
- Purpose: “Setbacks guide you to your purpose.” Each challenge and failure has steered Sailesh closer to his true calling.
- Obstacles: “Your screening test to qualify.” Sailesh views obstacles as necessary tests that qualify an entrepreneur for success.
- Attitude: “One idea, one commitment.” His unwavering commitment to a single idea—enhancing health through millet—has been instrumental in his success.
- Resources: “Look around, then think beyond.” Sailesh’s ability to utilize available resources creatively and think outside the box has been a key factor in his journey.
- Success: “Success is a staircase, not an elevator.” Sailesh’s story underscores that success is achieved through gradual, persistent effort, not overnight.
His formula for success, Passion Driven Me + Purpose Pushed Me = Entrepreneur, encapsulates the essence of his journey. It highlights the interplay
between personal passion and a larger purpose, driving his transformation from an employee to a trailblazing entrepreneur.
The Road Ahead
As Sailesh Ganduri looks back on his journey, he sees a tapestry of trials, learning, and triumphs. His story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that with passion, purpose, and perseverance, it is possible to transform challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality. Today, Blissbody is not just a product; it is a symbol of resilience and innovation, poised to revolutionize the nutraceutical industry.
With FamNutra, Sailesh continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of health and wellness. His journey from a remote village to the forefront of nutraceutical innovation is a powerful reminder that setbacks are merely stepping stones to greater achievements. As Sailesh propels FamNutra forward, his commitment to making affordable health solutions accessible to all remains unwavering, promising a future where health and wellness are within everyone’s reach.
