When Mira Kulkarni founded Forest Essentials in 2000, she redefined Indian skincare by blending centuries-old Ayurveda with contemporary luxury. Starting from a modest garage with just ₹2 lakh and two helpers, her journey is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and vision.
Roots in Ayurveda and Personal Resilience
Born in Chennai and raised between Delhi and Uttarakhand, Kulkarni was deeply immersed in Ayurvedic traditions from childhood . Her entry into entrepreneurship came later in life, at 45, after overcoming profound personal struggles: a failed marriage, the deaths of both parents by age 28, and the challenges of single motherhood . She found solace in crafting soaps and candles, repurposing melted wax to create the first Forest Essentials candle, a metaphor for her reignited purpose.
Crafting Luxury from Tradition
Mira’s mission was clear: why buy luxury soaps abroad when India could make its own? She partnered with Vaids and biochemists to convert raw Ayurvedic recipes into indulgent, user-friendly formats. The brand’s launch product was a cold-pressed oil-based soap made with ghee and pure spring water, 100% natural and deeply rooted in tradition.
Her uncompromising stance on purity led her to source ingredients directly. Forest Essentials set up its own cold-pressed oils facility in Uttarakhand, rejecting third-party oils, ensuring authenticity and extract quality. This meticulous approach, paired with luxury aesthetics, elevated Ayurveda from medicinal roots to plush skincare.
Foundations of Growth & Scale
Forest Essentials debuted in Khan Market, Delhi, where a modest storefront quickly thrived. A breakthrough came with an order from Hyatt Regency, layering credibility and forging connections with top-tier hotels. By 2005–2006, the brand achieved ₹6 crore in sales, highlighting consumer appetite for luxurious, natural care.
Growth remained strategic. The brand expanded to 130+ Indian outlets, and diversified into body, hair, and facial care. Notably, Soundarya cream became a symbol of opulence, featuring 24k gold and moonlit water, epitomizing Ayurveda meets ritualistic luxury .
Global Expansion & Brand Philosophy
In 2008, Forest Essentials caught global attention when Estée Lauder acquired a 20% stake, marking the first time the company invested in an Indian beauty brand. The partnership fortified quality controls, packaging, and global outreach—all while preserving Ayurvedic integrity Following this alliance, Forest Essentials entered the UK in October 2021 and opened its London flagship in Covent Garden in November 2022. Presently, 25–30% of revenue stems from e‑commerce, with shipments reaching 120+ countries. The brand partners with 500+ luxury hotels and spas, driving 8–10% of revenue through hospitality channels.
Legacy, Recognition & Future Aspirations
Mira Kulkarni has been consistently recognized, named one of Fortune India’s “Most Powerful Women in Business” (2011–2020) and honored as Vogue India’s Beauty Pioneer of the Year (2017). Under her leadership and that of her son Samrath Bedi (Managing Director), the brand reported revenues of ₹253 crore in FY 2020 and ₹210 crore in FY 2021.Mira shares a simple philosophy: “If you cannot eat it, do not use it on your skin.” This belief underscores every decision, from sourcing to product formulation. Her precise expansion strategy, opening 15–20 stores annually, reflects a balance of ambition and brand integrity.
The Road Ahead
With established manufacturing in Uttarakhand and zero‑animal‑testing mandates, Forest Essentials is positioned solidly for future growth. Mira envisions 15–20% of revenue coming from international markets over the next five years.
In conclusion, Mira Kulkarni’s journey, marked by personal adversity, cultural stewardship, and uncompromising standards, has crafted an Indian brand that marries Dhātus and gold foil with global luxury. As she continues to steer Forest Essentials forward, her ethos remains unchanged: authenticity, purity, and mindful craftsmanship.
