How Paper n Parcels Became a Rs. 100 Crore Success Story Founded by Tilak Mehta

Rajshree Upadhyaya | Business Remedies | March 01, 2025 | In a world where teenagers are typically preoccupied with schoolwork and extracurricular activities, Tilak Mehta chose an entirely different path. At the tender age of 13, he ventured into the world of business and founded Paper n Parcels, a logistics startup that today stands as one of the most successful enterprises in India. With an estimated worth of Rs. 100 crores, his company has transformed the delivery industry by offering same-day, hyperlocal courier services at affordable rates.

The idea for Paper n Parcels stemmed from a personal challenge. One day, Tilak needed his books urgently from a different part of Mumbai but found no cost-effective way to get them on the same day. His father, Vishal Mehta, was exhausted from work, making Tilak realize the need for a reliable, same-day delivery service. This seemingly small inconvenience planted the seed for what would become a revolutionary business model. Inspired by Mumbai’s legendary Dabbawalas, Tilak saw an opportunity to collaborate with them and leverage their robust delivery network. With strategic guidance from his father, he turned this vision into a reality.

Starting a business at 13 was no easy feat. While most children his age were focused on academics and leisure, Tilak dedicated himself to solving a problem that many Mumbai residents faced. With an initial investment of Rs. 25,000 from his father, he officially launched Paper n Parcels in July 2018. The venture immediately gained traction due to its unique offering: same-day, hyperlocal parcel delivery. Customers could place orders through a dedicated mobile application that provided real-time tracking, making the service both convenient and efficient.

Despite his young age, Tilak faced significant challenges. Gaining the trust of customers and businesses was difficult, but his determination and innovative approach won people over. The partnership with the Dabbawalas played a crucial role in ensuring quick deliveries, and soon, his startup was handling over 1,200 orders per day.

Paper n Parcels disrupted the traditional logistics model by offering a seamless and cost-effective solution. The company provides door-to-door pickup and delivery of parcels weighing up to 3 kg. Delivery charges range from Rs. 40 to Rs. 180, making it an affordable option for businesses and individuals alike. The headquarters in Dadar, Mumbai, strategically connects the service to the city’s extensive train network, allowing for rapid deliveries across various locations.

With over 200 direct employees and 300 Dabbawalas, Paper n Parcels has become a vital part of Mumbai’s logistics ecosystem. The business serves a wide range of clients, including pathology labs, boutique stores, and brokerage firms. The company has also expressed interest in forming strategic partnerships with major delivery services like Swiggy.

Tilak’s entrepreneurial journey has not gone unnoticed. His achievements have earned him the Youngest Entrepreneur Award in Logistics at the India Maritime Awards—3rd Edition. He has also been invited to speak at TEDx, where he shared his experiences and insights with aspiring entrepreneurs. His ability to balance school and business is a testament to his exceptional drive and discipline.

With a reported net worth of Rs. 65 crores and a monthly revenue of Rs. 2 crores, Tilak has proven that age is no barrier to success. His story has inspired countless young individuals across India, proving that with innovation, determination, and the right support, even a teenager can build a multi-crore business.

Tilak draws inspiration from business magnates like Mukesh Ambani and Steve Jobs, aiming to scale his business further and generate more employment opportunities. One of his upcoming plans includes shifting the Dabbawalas to a per-delivery payment model, ensuring higher earnings for them. He envisions making Paper n Parcels a dominant force in India’s logistics sector, continuing to improve and expand its services.

His journey from a schoolboy in Aurangabad to one of India’s youngest and most successful entrepreneurs highlights the power of vision, perseverance, and innovation. His company is not just a business; it is a movement that has redefined urban logistics and inspired the next generation of entrepreneurs.