How This Harvard, IIT Delhi Alumna Began A Toy Brand That's Caught The Eye Of Many Mothers

Meeta Sharma Gupta’s entrepreneurial odyssey, which led to the creation of ‘Shumee’, a sustainable toy brand, showcases a profound intersection of motherhood, innovation, and a drive to enrich children’s development.

What to know: Meeta Sharma Gupta actively transitioned from an academic path at IIT Delhi and Harvard University to the entrepreneurial world of toy-making. As a mother returning to India, she faced a shortage of sustainable, developmental toys, inspiring her to launch Shumee in 2016.

Motivated by the need for safe, stimulating, and educational toys, she plunged into designing and creating toys that catered to children's learning and growth.

Shumee’s portfolio, featuring a variety of toys from neem wood rattles to multi-functional activity triangles, caters to different developmental stages. Each toy is carefully designed to be not just a plaything, but a tool for learning and growth. Her products have struck a chord with parents seeking sustainable, skill-enhancing toys for their children.

See also: Insurance Professional Turned Farmer Now Earns ₹21-Cr A Year From Organic Farming

The larger picture: Meeta’s vision extended beyond business; she aimed to build a community of informed parents. Through blogs and sessions, she shares insights on engaging children in meaningful activities beyond screen time. Shumee’s success thus lies not just in its financial growth but in its contribution to a more informed and conscientious approach to child-rearing and play.

Her journey with Shumee is a testament to the potential of entrepreneurial ventures that align business success with social impact. Meeta’s story is an inspiration, especially to women entrepreneurs, demonstrating how a passion-driven idea can evolve into a thriving business and a community movement, redefining playtime for children across borders.

Read next: How This Actor With An MBA Degree Saved Up Funds From Gigs To Build A 50-Cr Khichdi Empire