“When there is belief in God, there will always be a demand for agarbatti,” says Prahlad Pallai, proprietor of Swomen Agarbati. The brand was established in 2010 with a vision to revolutionise the incense stick industry and has proved its mettle in the market. From humble beginnings to leading a revolution in incense stick manufacturing, Pallai’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and innovation. In this exclusive interview with Orissa POST, he shares insights into his entrepreneurial path, the challenges in the industry, and his vision for the future…Excerpts
Can you brief us about your early life and what led you to the incense stick business?
My journey began in 2006 when I visited Bangalore. The place where I was staying had an agarbatti factory nearby, and after visiting it, I was inspired to start my venture. At the time, I was still pursuing my studies, but my family was facing severe financial difficulties, and the responsibility of supporting them fell on my shoulders at a young age. Initially, I took up a job, but neither job security nor satisfaction was guaranteed. This led me to take a bold step and start my own business. I recognised the enormous demand for incense sticks and, despite having little knowledge of the industry, took the risk. In 2010, I established Swomen Agarbati with the vision of revolutionising the industry by introducing high-quality incense sticks and innovative machinery.
How is the demand for incense sticks in Odisha? What is your USP?
The demand for incense sticks in Odisha is exceptionally high due to the state’s religious and cultural significance. Every household requires incense sticks, often multiple times a day, for worship and rituals. The demand is so strong that we sometimes struggle to meet it, but we are continuously expanding our production capacity. While we focus on increasing supply, our top priority remains quality. Unlike some manufacturers who prioritise quantity over excellence, we never compromise on the quality of our incense sticks.
What challenges does the industry face?
Despite our strong market presence, the incense industry faces several challenges. Price wars with competitors, rising raw material costs, manpower shortages, high marketing expenses, and government regulations all impact business operations. However, what sets our brand apart is the unwavering support of our customers. We have not only built a successful brand but have also created employment opportunities across Odisha. Many small entrepreneurs and distributors associated with us earn anywhere between Rs 100 to 1,000 daily, helping them sustain their livelihoods. This social impact keeps us motivated to overcome industry challenges.
How important is processing in your manufacturing?
At Swomen Agarbati, we focus on quality over quantity. We have introduced advanced techniques and high-end machinery to ensure the production of premium-quality incense sticks. While many competitors prioritise mass production for higher profits, we maintain strict quality control and never compromise on the fragrance, burning time, or eco-friendliness of our products.
How has your journey been so far, and what future plans do you have?
Like every entrepreneur, my journey was also filled with struggles, lessons, and perseverance. Starting as a newcomer with no industry knowledge, I gradually gained expertise through hands-on experience. Looking ahead, we plan to introduce more advanced production techniques to further enhance the quality of our products. Innovation and customer satisfaction will continue to be our driving forces as we expand our brand and reach new markets.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs entering this industry?
Entrepreneurship demands hard work, dedication, and patience. Many newcomers enter the industry with enthusiasm but fail because they lack consistency and long-term vision. Success doesn’t come overnight—it requires careful planning, perseverance, and a deep understanding of customer needs. With the right mindset and persistence, anyone can achieve success in this industry.
Some incense manufacturers use harmful chemicals in production. Are your products eco-friendly?
Yes, all Swomen Agarbati products are organic and non-toxic. We do not use any harmful chemicals, ensuring that our incense sticks are safe for both users and the environment. Our commitment to sustainability and quality makes us stand out in the market, providing customers with a natural and aromatic experience.
