Business Remedies | Rajshree Upadhyaya | June 27, 2025 | With a thoughtful mix of tradition, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Sparsh Agarwal and Ishaan Kanoria launched Dorje Teas, carving out a distinct identity for themselves. Both spent their childhood at Selim Hill Tea Garden, a family legacy. When the global pandemic in 2020 crippled supply chains, they watched helplessly as tea exports collapsed and many tea estates struggled to survive. This was not just an economic blow, but a cultural loss. It led them to ask: How can Darjeeling tea reach Indian households?
Instead of relying on a broker-heavy traditional system, they envisioned a farm-to-cup model focused on freshness, transparency, and storytelling. In July 2021, they launched Dorje Teas with a mission to revive their estate and reconnect consumers with high-quality, single-origin Darjeeling teas. Their range includes black, green, white, oolong, and herbal wellness blends – all sourced from Selim Hill and certified by USDA and Rainforest Alliance.
Rather than sending bulk tea into obscurity, they focused on preserving the unique character of each seasonal flush – from the delicate spring leaves to the robust monsoon harvest. Their teas are sold through subscriptions, e-commerce platforms, and carefully selected retail outlets, ensuring each cup reflects the true terroir of Darjeeling.
Focus on Sustainability and Commitment to Quality Impressed Investors
Their turning point came in early 2023 when they appeared on Shark Tank India Season 2, asking for Rs. 30 lakh in exchange for 5% equity, valuing Dorje Teas at Rs. 6 crore. Their authentic journey, along with their focus on sustainability and quality, impressed the investors. Anupam Mittal, Peyush Bansal, and Vineeta Singh collectively offered Rs. 30 lakh for 15% equity, which Sparsh and Ishaan accepted.
The Shark Tank exposure brought a surge in demand. Subscriptions increased, monthly recurring revenue reached Rs. 30 lakh, and Dorje Teas closed FY2023 with revenue of around Rs. 1.3 crore. In FY2024, their disciplined approach led to even higher profitability – revenue jumped 84% to Rs. 2.32 crore, and after a Rs. 40 lakh loss the previous year, the company posted a Rs. 44 lakh profit.
Their rapid growth and clear brand vision attracted Rs. 1.8 crore in seed funding in October 2024, led by Kost Fund VC and supported by Untitled Ventures, Ice VC, Ashoka alumni, and actor-investor Nakuul Mehta. The capital enabled Dorje to expand into wellness-focused teas, pyramid tea bags, and B2B channels, while also laying the foundation for an experiential tea shop and heritage tours at Selim Hill.
Challenges Alongside Success
Despite success, challenges followed. Sony Pictures Networks India issued a legal notice to Dorje for using Shark Tank clips in marketing campaigns, prompting public criticism from Sparsh. He argued that startups promoting their entrepreneurial journey should not be penalized. His comments sparked debate about the ownership of startup narratives, with many in the business community voicing support. Online responses were mixed – while many praised their distinctive blue pea tea and wellness offerings, others raised concerns about taste and packaging, highlighting the complexities of scaling niche premium products for a wider market.
Remaining True to Their Purpose
Through the highs and lows, Sparsh and Ishaan have stayed true to their mission. Dorje Teas is not just a business – it’s a revival of Darjeeling’s tea legacy, grounded in sustainable practices, community welfare, and ecological stewardship. Their Selim Hill Collective works closely with estate workers to ensure the estate’s prosperity grows alongside the brand’s success.
Today, with Rs. 30 lakh in monthly recurring revenue, over 40,000 retail touchpoints, and ambitious plans for immersive tea experiences, Dorje Teas stands as a seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and mindful entrepreneurship. Their journey continues to redefine how India experiences its most iconic brew.
Written & Edited By:
Rajshree Upadhyaya
