In a digital world where trends shift rapidly, Sushmita Pai Kane has carved out a unique niche as an influencer and entrepreneur, seamlessly blending her passion for ethnic fashion with business acumen. Based in Goa, her journey began in 2010 when she joined Instagram as @sushmitaaqurian. Over the years, she transformed her love for traditional attire into a thriving online boutique, Mohinika by Sushmita, which now caters to customers across India and beyond.
From Passion to Entrepreneurship
Sushmita’s entrepreneurial journey was sparked by the admiration she received for her elegant saree and jewellery choices, especially after marriage. Recognizing the potential of her influence, she envisioned a boutique that would make designer sarees affordable and accessible to a wide audience. Rather than limiting herself to Goa’s local market, she chose the online space to ensure that her collection could reach customers nationwide and even internationally.
Mohinika by Sushmita: Affordable Elegance
Mohinika by Sushmita is more than just an online store—it is a celebration of India’s rich textile heritage. The boutique introduces around 25 new designs daily, covering styles from the intricate weaves of Kashmir to the vibrant traditions of Kanyakumari and Mizoram. Staying true to her values of authenticity and affordability, Sushmita ensures that most of her sarees are priced under ₹1500, making elegance accessible to everyone without compromising on quality.
Overcoming Challenges in the Digital Space
Running an online business comes with its own set of challenges, the biggest being building trust among customers hesitant to purchase products they haven’t physically seen or touched. Leveraging her influencer status, Sushmita tackled this hurdle by creating engaging content, sharing detailed product videos, and maintaining transparent communication with her audience. Her dedication to authenticity has helped her establish a loyal customer base that continues to grow.
Staying Motivated in a Competitive Industry
The unpredictable nature of online business—where sales can fluctuate due to trends and seasonal demands—requires resilience. Sushmita stays motivated by constantly innovating, engaging with her audience, and adapting to market shifts. She believes in consistency and remains excited about the future, knowing that each challenge is an opportunity for growth.
Acknowledging Support and Achievements
For Sushmita, success is not just measured in sales but also in the unwavering support she receives from her husband. His belief in her vision, combined with her own determination, has been a key driving force behind her business’s success. Balancing multiple roles as an influencer, content creator, and investor, she credits his encouragement as her greatest strength.
Innovating to Stay Ahead
Fashion is ever-evolving, and Sushmita ensures that Mohinika by Sushmita remains ahead of the curve by following leading designers such as Manish Malhotra, Anita Dongre, Neeta Lulla, and Masaba. Staying informed about emerging trends allows her to curate collections that resonate with modern consumers. Additionally, she maintains strong relationships with her vendors to ensure her sarees reflect contemporary styles while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Leadership and Team Collaboration
A firm believer in fostering a positive work environment, Sushmita leads her team with trust and respect. She approaches mistakes as learning opportunities and encourages open communication, creating a workplace where everyone feels valued. This leadership style ensures that her brand remains aligned with her vision while maintaining high standards of service and quality.
The Power of Networking
Networking has been instrumental in Sushmita’s success, particularly through social media. Actively engaging with her audience and collaborating with others in the fashion industry has helped her expand her business beyond Goa, reaching markets in the USA and Singapore. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to be consistent, authentic, and strategic in building strong business connections that foster growth.
Scaling the Business While Ensuring Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction remains Sushmita’s top priority. To maintain trust and quality as her business grows, she has implemented an easy return and refund policy, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for her customers. Her approach has not only enhanced customer loyalty but also solidified her brand’s reputation in the competitive online market.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Sushmita’s key advice to aspiring business owners is patience. The journey of entrepreneurship requires time to build trust, credibility, and a strong customer base. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, quality, and customer relationships, urging newcomers to focus on creating a solid foundation rather than chasing quick profits.
Looking Ahead: Future Goals
Sushmita envisions expanding her brand beyond the digital realm by opening a physical boutique in Porvorim, Goa. While her current focus remains on strengthening her online presence and deepening customer relationships, she aspires to create a lasting impact in the world of ethnic fashion. By staying true to her values and continuously evolving, she is well on her way to turning her dream into reality.
A Trailblazer in the Fashion Industry
Sushmita Pai Kane’s journey from an Instagram influencer to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and innovation. Through Mohinika by Sushmita, she is not only redefining ethnic fashion but also inspiring others to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. With her eyes set on new horizons, the future looks incredibly promising for this dynamic entrepreneur.
