FROM A GATAI WORKER TO AN ENTREPRENEUR: A CASE STUDY OF SUNIL SANJAY SHIVDAS

Abstract

This case study explores the inspiring entrepreneurial journey of Mr. Sunil Sanjay Shivdas, Secretary of the National Charmakar Federation, Satara District, who transitioned from being a gatai worker in the leather industry to becoming a recognized entrepreneur and recipient of the Charmakar Udyog Ratna Award. His story represents how determination, institutional support, and social responsibility can transform the lives of individuals from marginalized backgrounds. Mr. Shivdas began his career with limited resources and recognition, working as a gatai laborer. Despite socio-economic barriers, he steadily mastered the skills of leather craftsmanship, including the making of Kolhapuri chappals and leather shoes. His perseverance, coupled with formal education (Higher Secondary, Commerce), created a foundation for personal growth. However, his entrepreneurial journey truly accelerated due to a combination of training, financial assistance, and exposure. He undertook specialized business school training, which equipped him with essential managerial and entrepreneurial skills such as financial planning, product design, and marketing. This shift enabled him to move beyond traditional methods and adopt structured business strategies. A critical intervention came through the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), which sanctioned a loan of ₹25 lakhs, allowing him to expand operations. Simultaneously, his active participation in ICSSR projects broadened his vision, exposing him to new perspectives on product visualization, market trends, and resource optimization. Training sessions organized jointly by YCMOU and LIDCOM reshaped his thinking process, shifting his outlook from short-term survival to long-term entrepreneurial sustainability. His visit to the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai, and participation in the National Craft Fair in Bangalore further expanded his horizon, introducing him to innovations and networks at national and global levels. Family and community engagement also played a central role. He encouraged his wife to join a Self-Help Group (SHG), integrating women’s empowerment into his business model. By involving other community members in his enterprise, he turned his venture into a tool for collective upliftment rather than just personal gain. Recognition of prior learning further strengthened his confidence, inspiring him to pursue innovative ideas and bold initiatives. His enterprise has since gained credibility by producing footwear for government officers, reflecting both quality assurance and institutional trust. The case study highlights several dimensions of his growth: institutional support, skill development, family participation, recognition, innovation, networking, and social responsibility. Together, these elements transformed Mr. Shivdas into a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. His story underscores the potential of entrepreneurship to drive not only individual success but also economic independence, gender-inclusive development, and community empowerment.