What’s Good, India? | From Cancer Survivors Building Thriving Businesses to E-Bikes Tackling Pollution in Kashmir

This week, we spotlight individuals who are rewriting the rules of courage, compassion, and innovation.

From a cancer survivor building a thriving business to a duo in Kashmir tackling pollution with e-bikes, these stories remind us of the power of innovation in overcoming adversity and creating positive change.

This Week’s Spotlight: Top 3 Stories of the Week

1. Cancer and Debt— Neither Stopped Laveena From Building a Thriving Food Business

Once at the helm of a thriving transport business in Meerut, Laveena Jain and her husband’s world shattered in 2010 when they were both diagnosed with cancer—Laveena with breast cancer, and her husband with mouth cancer. Their treatment drained savings, halted their business, and left them in debt.

Determined to support their children, Laveena turned to an old skill. In 2011, she joined Uttar Pradesh’s 100-day employment programme.

With just ?1,500, she launched Laveena’s Tripti Foods, selling homemade jams, pickles, and squashes—each jar filled with survival and love.

Selling was another battle. Her son Kinshuk hesitated until his father, unable to speak after surgery, wrote a note: “Even as the owner, I invited passengers onto my bus myself. Don’t hesitate—go door-to-door with confidence.”

Kinshuk built a loyal customer base, and what began as a fight for survival has now blossomed into a thriving ?39 lakh business, receiving 300 orders monthly and clearing ?15 lakh in debt. Today, Laveena’s Tripti Foods is even on Amazon.

2. These Vegan Sneakers Give Disabled Artists a Voice While Also Saving the Planet

“I believe that once you reach a certain position in life, you must give back to society, but sustainably,” says Aziz Kapasi, 50, founder of KobSook. His company crafts unique, handcrafted sneakers that blend style with purpose.

Made from vegan suede and recyclable canvas, KobSook sneakers feature exclusive artwork. But Aziz’s vision extends beyond eco-friendly footwear. He is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment.

This mission is personal. Growing up, Aziz witnessed the mistreatment of disabled individuals in his own family.

With no background in footwear, he spent a year researching before launching KobSook in 2021. Partnering with AIMS Media, he trained disabled individuals in digital and creative skills.

Today, KobSook employs 20 people, including five with disabilities. The company has sold 3,000+ pairs, generated ?25 lakh in profit, and helped employees like Anjana showcase her artwork at Dubai Airport—a dream she never imagined.

3. Kashmir Duo Uses E-Bikes to Combat Tourist Pollution and Earn Rs 30 Lakh a Year

As a young boy in Srinagar, Sheikh Yameen eagerly awaited the heavy snow that transformed his hometown into a winter wonderland.

Today, those memories are tinged with sadness. “It’s rare now, and the beauty of Kashmir has been overshadowed by pollution,” Yameen laments.

Fuelled by a desire to restore the region’s charm, Yameen and his friend Zubair Ahmed Bhat launched Curve Electric in 2022 — an e-bike rental service aimed at tackling pollution and traffic, ideal for rugged terrain.

Curve Electric has completed 55,000 rides, covering 7,50,000 kilometres, significantly reducing the carbon footprint.

The e-bikes offer three modes: full electric, pedal assist, and manual pedalling, with a simple rental system at ?6 per minute, making it an affordable alternative to taxis.

“I used to waste 30 minutes in traffic. Now, I arrive on time, knowing I’m helping reduce pollution,” says user Salik Bhat.

With projected revenue growth from Rs 14 lakh to Rs 55 lakh this year, Curve Electric is shaping an eco-friendly future for Kashmir. After being featured on Shark Tank India Season 4, Yameen’s drive to lead a larger movement is stronger than ever.

Week in a Wink: What Made News On Social Media

Meet Abdul Qadeer, a 50-year-old Uber driver who has turned his cab into a mobile provision store, offering passengers everything under the sun; snacks, water, medicines, shoe polish, and even umbrellas, all for free!

A father of three, he believes a ride can be more than just a journey. A small donation box, inspired by his daughter, now funds the education of underprivileged kids—a dream close to his heart.

With 11,000+ rides and a 4.97 rating, he’s spreading kindness, one trip at a time.

An accident left Gurvinder Singh paralysed from the waist down, but instead of giving up, he chose to change lives.

In 2005, he founded Bhai Kanhaiya Manav Sewa Trust, providing free ambulance services to 6,000+ accident victims and pregnant women. He also runs a shelter for abandoned women and children, plus a school for the underprivileged.

His Padma Shri is a testament to his impact, but to many, he’s much more—a lifeline, a mentor, a true hero.

In the bustling streets of Prayagraj, where thousands are gathering for the grand Mahakumbh, many elderly devotees struggle to take even a few steps.

But Arpit ensures they don’t have to. With a warm smile and an open heart, he offers them a free ride on his bike, ensuring they reach their destination safely—without charging a single penny.

Here’s to everyday heroes like Arpit, proving that you don’t need superpowers to change the world.?

??Inspiration In Motion: Watch This!

At just 2, Aadavi will live her entire life producing zero carbon emissions!

While an average Indian emits 2 tons annually, her visionary parents, Dinesh SP and Janaga Nandhini, planted 6,000 trees to offset her lifetime footprint.

Watch how they made it happen!

?? Quote of the Week

"Value your gut- when your gut feels like something is wrong, think hard about it, and don’t let data take over that decision."

Deepinder Goyal, Founder & CEO of Zomato

Photo of the Wee

Help a Changemaker: Empower Children Rescued from Bonded Labour with #GiftEducation

D Sivakumar's life has come full circle, from being a child bonded labourer to empowering others trapped in similar circumstances.

As a mentor with an NGO, Sivakumar helps survivors dream big, offering them education, career guidance, and exposure to new possibilities.

His message to the children he mentors: "Your past doesn't define your future."

For just Rs 500, you can help equip a rescued child with the resources they need to create a brighter future.

Join #GiftEducation and be part of a life-changing movement. Your contribution can help these children dream big, grow, and thrive.

Donate now!

?? What’s Happening – Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Taj Mahotsav 2025

Dates: 18 February - 2 March 2025

Venue: Shilpgram, Agra

The Taj Mahotsav is a vibrant celebration of India's cultural heritage, featuring around 400 artisans showcasing traditional crafts such as wood and stone carvings from Tamil Nadu, bamboo work from the Northeast, zardozi from Agra, Chikankari from Lucknow, and more.

Visitors can also indulge in local cuisines, enjoy folk dances, and experience music, making it a true cultural feast.

?? Weekend Cheer List

I Came Upon a Lighthouse

I Came Upon a Lighthouse by Shantanu Naidu is a touching journey of friendship, mentorship, and kindness.

At the heart of the story is the unexpected bond between 23-year-old Shantanu and the late Ratan Tata, one of India’s most beloved figures.

What begins as a simple initiative to protect stray dogs grows into a profound relationship that transcends generations and expectations.

Shantanu’s narration reveals the “sprightly sunflower” presence of Mr. Tata, whose warmth and wisdom brightened even the darkest days.

Sanjana Desai’s illustrations perfectly capture the emotion, adding depth to a story that will resonate with anyone who values true friendship and mentorship.

Laapataa Ladies

Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, is a thought-provoking film that delves into financial independence, women’s aspirations, female solidarity, and education through characters like Phool, Manju Mai, and Jaya.

The story follows two brides who are accidentally swapped during a train journey, leading to heartwarming and comedic moments as they rediscover themselves.

Amid the humor, the film tackles deeper societal reflections, such as when Yashoda asks, “Since when do we cook meals as per the woman’s preference?” challenging traditional gender roles.

Its Oscar 2025 nomination and upcoming IIFA nomination underscore its heart, humor, and cultural relevance.

---

Thank you for reading! Stories like these remind us that change begins with action. We'll be back next week with more tales of hope, resilience, and progress.