FATEHPUR, UTTAR PRADESH – In a unique blend of entrepreneurship and traditional wisdom, Ashok Tapaswi, a former city resident, has transformed his barren ancestral land in Fatehpur into India’s first organic sindoor farm. By cultivating Annatto trees, a medicinal plant with vibrant red seeds, Tapaswi has created a profitable business while addressing the health risks associated with chemical-laden cosmetics.
Tapaswi’s journey began after he discovered that synthetic sindoor in the market often contains harmful chemicals like lead and mercury, which can cause skin irritation and hair loss. Inspired by Ayurveda, he decided to grow Annatto, which has long been used to produce a natural, chemical-free alternative. Starting with just a handful of saplings, his farm now flourishes with over 400 trees, producing a pigment used not only for sindoor but also for lipstick, fabric dyes, and food coloring.
Priced at ₹500 per 10 grams, his pure, plant-based sindoor has already generated over ₹45 lakhs. Beyond the financial success, Tapaswi is on a mission to promote natural farming and public health. He has begun distributing Annatto saplings to farmers across India with a goal of reaching 1 lakh, aiming to empower rural livelihoods and revive traditional practices. His work demonstrates a sustainable model for rural entrepreneurship, cultural revival, and environmental care.