In the bustling city of Bangalore, amidst the fast-paced world of consulting, there exists a visionary entrepreneur whose heart beats for nature and adventure. Meet Shibani Shetty, the dynamic force behind LESS, a hemp-focused venture in Bangalore. In 2018, Shibani founded LESS with a mission to GROW, SHARE, and CURATE quality hemp products, fostering self-sustaining communities. Her entrepreneurial journey, rooted in a deep connection with nature, has led to the creation of zero waste offerings—from hemp clothing to housing. Shibani’s vision extends beyond borders, reaching into Thailand, as she pioneers the way for ethical practices and community impact in the global cannabis industry.
A Journey Rooted in Nature:
Shibani Shetty, an earth enthusiast and entrepreneur, embarked on a unique journey that seamlessly blends her professional career with her passion for nature. While working as a brand consultant at Deloitte Digital in Bangalore during the week, Shibani dedicates her weekends to nurturing her ventures, especially LESS.
In 2018, Shibani founded LESS with a clear mission—to create eco-friendly products that extend beyond fashion. LESS is not just a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to contributing to breathable homes, empowering farmers, eradicating malnutrition and promoting wellness and medical cannabis in India. The company’s product range spans from hemp clothing and home furnishings to skincare and wellness items.
Sustainability at the Core:
At the heart of LESS lies an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Shibani and her team are passionate about cultivation and source thier raw materials directly from farmer communities. By doing so, they not only ensure the quality of their products but also contribute to the livelihoods of these communities, fostering a self-sustaining future.
The decision to venture into hemp was a conscious one, considering its eco-friendly properties. Hemp is a versatile plant known for its rapid growth, minimal environmental impact, and various applications, making it a sustainable choice for a wide range of products. Shibani’s vision for LESS is not just about creating a successful brand but about leaving a positive impact on the environment and the communities it touches.
Entrepreneurial Spirit Unleashed:
Shibani’s journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t a predetermined path. Coming from a family of doctors, she has been exploring alternative medicine, founding Grounded Grandma—a project centred on deep research into natural remedies. The desire to create a positive impact on the environment and communities with hemp, eventually led her to establish LESS.
“In the soil of sustainability, we plant the seeds of positive change. LESS is not just a brand; it’s a movement—a commitment to growing, sharing, and curating a future where nature thrives, communities flourish, and hemp becomes the fabric of a self -sustained world.” – Shibani Shetty
Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through as she leads a super talented team in building brands that tell stories, evoke emotions, and embody a culture with a larger impact and core values. Shibani’s success habits include maintaining a strong connection with nature, continuous learning, and surrounding herself with a creative and talented team. Clear goal-setting, adaptability, and staying true to core values are key aspects of her success.
Make or Break Moments:
Venturing into a new market presented its challenges, but it was a calculated risk that aligns with LESS’s commitment to revolutionize the plant worldwide.
Every entrepreneur faces pivotal moments that define the trajectory of their business. For Shibani, expanding the product range beyond clothing to include skincare and wellness products was a make-or-break decision with her partner that significantly contributed to LESS’s success. Another crucial moment was the decision to venture into Thailand, expanding the company’s reach and impact in the Southeast Asian market.
The Future of LESS:
Looking ahead, Shibani envisions cultivating hemp in drought-prone areas of India. Additionally, LESS aims to make medical cannabis easily accessible to all, starting with the production of extractions in Thailand for Thailand. Shibani’s role involves leading the company’s efforts to formulate, test, manufacture, package, and sell extractions in collaboration with local partners, furthering the commitment to sustainability and community development in the region.
Shibani’s dedication to this cause extends beyond the borders of India, reaching into the global arena by sharing knowledge and practices with different communities in Thailand and EU.
Leadership and Core Values:
As a leader, Shibani Shetty acknowledges the importance of setting the strategic direction of the company, fostering a collaborative and innovative culture, and ensuring that every initiative aligns with the core values of respecting the land and its people. The mission of creating self-sustaining communities is at the heart of everything LESS does, guiding decisions and actions.
The communication of core values within the organization is achieved through transparency, leading by example, and incorporating these values into every aspect of the business. From product development to partnerships, the commitment to sustainability and community impact is evident.
Lessons from Nature and Adventure:
Beyond her professional endeavors, Shibani is deeply passionate about exploring the layers of mother EARTH. Her life’s lessons often come from these adventures—whether it’s spending time in forests, observing wildlife, dancing under the moonlight, or simply embracing stillness. These moments of connection with nature fuel her commitment to making a positive impact on the planet and its people.
Evolution of the Industry:
The hemp industry has undergone significant evolution over the years. There is a growing awareness of the benefits of hemp, and consumers are increasingly valuing natural products. The shift towards sustainability and a focus on products that align with health needs indicate a positive direction for the industry.
LESS stands as a testament to this evolution, with its commitment to providing quality hemp products that contribute to a healthier and more authentic lifestyle.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Shibani’s journey is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her advice is to stay true to one’s values, be adaptable, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the importance of relentless pursuit of knowledge, passion for the mission, and surrounding oneself with a talented and supportive team.
Final words:
In the tapestry of the natural world, Shibani Shetty’s vision with LESS emerges as a vibrant thread, weaving together eco-conscious practices, community empowerment, and a commitment to positive change. As we navigate a world in need of transformation, LESS stands as a testament to the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Shibani’s dedication to cultivating not just hemp but a sustainable lifestyle resonates in every product, partnership, and venture. In the hands of this visionary leader, LESS becomes more—a symbol of hope, resilience, and a promise for a future where our choices today echo in the thriving ecosystems and empowered communities of tomorrow.
