INDIA: In the small towns of Sihora and nearby Sonegaon, a humble footwear business has grown into a symbol of perseverance and generational ambition. In 2026, Dhansing Barve stands at the forefront of this journey, carrying forward a legacy that began with his grandfather Savji and was strengthened by his father Chunnilal.
The story dates back to Savji, a native of Sonegaon, who laid the foundation of the family’s livelihood through sheer determination. In an era when rural markets were the backbone of local economies, Savji would travel regularly to the weekly market in Sihora. There, near the Zilla Parishad school, he sold basic leather products, catering to the everyday needs of villagers. His work was modest, but it established a strong connection with the community and built trust that would endure across generations.
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Savji’s son, Chunnilal, expanded this journey beyond village boundaries. As the elder son, he ventured to Raipur, specifically Kanshi Ram Nagar, where he also married. In Raipur, Chunnilal’s early days were marked by hardship. He worked as a shoe polisher near the office of former Chief Minister Ajit Jogi. It was here that a turning point emerged.
According to family accounts, Chunnilal drew inspiration from an interaction involving a District Magistrate in Chhattisgarh. The encounter instilled in him the importance of dignity in labor and the potential for growth through persistence. Motivated by this experience, he decided to return to his roots. He went back to Sonegaon in 1959 and later resumed his efforts in 1964 with renewed focus on building a sustainable livelihood through footwear.
Scaling New Heights: Anil and Dhansing Barve Transform Footwear Business into a Thriving Enterprise
The next phase of transformation came under Anil Barve, who took charge of the business in 1987. Recognising the need to scale operations, Anil sought financial support and secured a loan from Khadi Gram Udyog. This move marked a shift from subsistence trade to structured entrepreneurship. The business began to grow in size and ambition, reaching more customers and improving the quality of its products.
A significant milestone arrived in 1991 when members of the Barve family participated in the Training of Rural Youth for Self Employment program (TRYSEM), a government initiative aimed at empowering small entrepreneurs. The training provided technical skills and business insights that proved instrumental in strengthening the family enterprise. It also aligned the business with broader efforts to promote rural development and self-reliance.
Since 1991, Dhansing Barve has played a central role in managing and expanding the business. Taking responsibility at a relatively young age, he focused not only on sustaining operations but also on supporting a large family dependent on the enterprise. Over the years, his leadership has ensured continuity while adapting to changing market dynamics.
Today, Barve Footwear Sihora has evolved into a recognised local brand with an estimated annual revenue of approximately 1.2 crore Indian rupees. What began as a small weekly market activity has grown into a stable business that provides livelihoods to around 20 people in the region. For a rural enterprise, this impact is significant, reflecting both economic contribution and social responsibility.
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Speaking to Transcontinental Times, Dhansing Barve expressed his vision for the future. He emphasised his commitment to scaling the business further by opening new branches across the Sihora region. His goal is not only to expand commercially but also to create more employment opportunities within the community.
The journey of the Barve family highlights the broader narrative of rural entrepreneurship in India. It underscores how traditional skills, when combined with institutional support and generational learning, can lead to sustainable growth. From Savji’s weekly travels to Sihora market to Dhansing’s plans for expansion, the story reflects adaptability and resilience in the face of changing times.
In an increasingly urban-focused economic landscape, stories like that of Barve Footwear serve as a reminder of the untapped potential in rural India. They also illustrate how family businesses, rooted in tradition, can evolve into modern enterprises without losing their core identity.
As Dhansing Barve looks ahead, the legacy of his grandfather and father continues to guide him. With a clear vision and a strong foundation, Barve Footwear Sihora is poised to step into a new phase of growth while staying firmly connected to its origins.
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