During the COVID-19 lockdown, many people picked up new hobbies, but few turned those hobbies into a Rs 1 crore business like 20-year-old Digvijay Singh from Udaipur. What started as a fun experiment in chocolate-making has grown into a thriving business called ‘Saram,’ with products reaching customers across India. Digvijay’s journey proves that with passion, creativity, and determination, hobbies can lead to professional success.
Turning a Lockdown Hobby into a Business
In 2020, while stuck at home during the pandemic, 16-year-old Digvijay decided to use his time productively. He tried different hobbies, but chocolate-making caught his interest. Without any formal training, he turned to YouTube to learn the craft. Soon, Digvijay was experimenting with unique recipes, using local ingredients like jamun, saffron, and plum to give his chocolates a distinct flavor. This innovative twist became the signature of his chocolates and attracted the attention of family and friends.
From Homemade Chocolates to First Big Order
What began as a hobby soon took a serious turn when Digvijay and his brother Mahvir started brainstorming how to sell their chocolates. The opportunity presented itself during Diwali when Digvijay noticed that a car showroom was giving chocolates to their customers. This sparked the idea to approach hotels and car dealerships to offer his homemade chocolates as gifts for their customers.
In 2021, Digvijay secured his first major order for 1,000 chocolates from a car showroom. This moment marked the start of something bigger. That same year, he launched his brand ‘Saram,’ which now sells chocolates not only locally but across cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Udaipur, and Jaipur.
Unique Indian Flavors, Sourced Locally
What sets Saram apart from other chocolate brands is its use of local fruits and spices, giving the chocolates a unique Indian flavor. Digvijay sources cacao beans from South India, particularly Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and pairs them with ingredients like kokum from Kerala and plums from Udaipur. This fusion of traditional Indian ingredients with chocolate has resonated with customers and helped Saram carve out its niche in the market.
Growth of Saram and Future Plans
Since its humble beginnings, Saram has sold over two tonnes of chocolate and reached a turnover of Rs 1 crore. The brand’s products are available online via its website and Instagram, and they can also be found in stores in Udaipur and Jaipur.
Despite his rapid success, Digvijay remains grounded. He continues to innovate and improve his products, always looking for new ways to incorporate local flavors into his chocolates. His story is a true testament to how passion, combined with dedication, can lead to success at a young age.
Inspiration for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Digvijay Singh’s journey from learning chocolate-making on YouTube to running a Rs 1 crore business is a shining example for aspiring entrepreneurs. His story shows that with the right mindset, you can turn a small idea into a successful venture. Whether it’s learning a new skill online or finding creative ways to market your products, there’s always room to grow—even in challenging times.
