Journey of Vijai Subramaniam: From ₹28,000 to a ₹600 Crore Furniture Empire
Journey of Vijai Subramaniam:
Humble Beginnings in Tamil Nadu
Born in the small village of Renganathapuram in Tamil Nadu, Vijai Subramaniam
grew up facing significant financial struggles. His family constantly battled
to afford basics like food, rent, and clothes. His father changed jobs often,
trying everything from cotton farming to selling tea and plastic items, finally
settling as an accountant. Meanwhile, his mother supported the family by
running a small grocery shop. These early hardships and his mother’s
perseverance lit the spark of entrepreneurship in young Vijai.
Schooling Against the Odds
Due to the family's financial constraints, Vijai started school late, joining
Class 2 directly when they moved to Munnar, Kerala. Struggling with the
language and feeling embarrassed in class, he was eventually shifted to a Tamil
medium school. Later, he studied in Aundipatti, Tamil Nadu, and stayed in a
government hostel under difficult conditions. Despite the lack of proper
facilities, he remained determined and completed his 12th grade in 1992.
A Student and an Entrepreneur
In 1992, Vijai enrolled in B.Com at Govt. College, Chittur, Kerala. Knowing he
had to support himself, he borrowed ₹5,000 from his mother. He used part of it
to pay rent and the rest to start a tea powder business. Riding a bicycle and
later a scooter, he distributed tea to shops, attending college only a few days
a week. While others enjoyed student life, Vijai balanced academics and
business with quiet grit.
False Start in Chennai and a New Path in Coimbatore
After graduation in 1995, Vijai’s uncle promised him a job in Singapore. He
sold his tea business and moved to Chennai. However, the uncle kept asking for
money, draining Vijai’s savings. Disheartened, he moved to Coimbatore in 1996,
rented a room for ₹700, and searched for jobs. Reflecting on his family's
struggles, he often cried alone, but he refused to give up.
A Modest Job and a Bold Decision
Vijai found a job at Standard Chartered Bank selling credit cards for ₹1,500 a
month. He quickly excelled, selling over 100 cards each month. One day, he came
across a last-minute offer for a stall at an exhibition costing ₹28,000.
Trusting his instinct, he pooled money with friends and started selling goods
like clothes and kitchen items. The stall turned a profit and marked the
beginning of his full-time business journey.
Starting the Trade Journey with His Brother
Encouraged by the success, Vijai left his bank job and expanded his business
with his brother Mathan. They traded in TV stands and kitchen items, conducting
exhibitions in various cities. With growing profits, they bought an Omni van,
increased their business reach, and earned respect from their family and
community.
Journey of Vijai Subramaniam: From ₹28,000 to a ₹600 Crore Furniture Empire Entrepreneur#age#net worth#startup#Royaloak story#Furniture#Vijai S
A Turning Point in Bengaluru
In 1999, the brothers visited Bengaluru for an exhibition at Safina Plaza.
Realizing the potential in furniture sales, they rented a 200 sq. ft. shop and
began selling TV stands under the name ‘Fashion Decor.’ Vijai also designed a
unique logo for branding. By 2003, they had secured a counter in Big Bazaar, a
major retail chain.
Building Momentum with New Stores
From 2004 to 2010, Vijai juggled three business outlets—Safina Plaza, Big
Bazaar, and a new store in Kammanahalli. He married Maheshwari in 2004, who
later played a key role in their business. In 2007, Vijai began importing
furniture from China and supplying wholesale to retailers, expanding their
scope beyond local markets.
Birth of Royaloak and Rapid Growth
In 2010, the brothers launched their first official Royaloak store in
Banaswadi, Bengaluru. By 2015, they had three stores, and by 2017, the number
had grown to nine. The brand was now known for offering high-quality
international furniture at affordable prices. They sourced products from
countries like the USA, Italy, Germany, and more.
Rising Above the Pandemic
When COVID-19 struck in 2020, many businesses downsized, but Vijai took a
different route. With only ₹40 lakh in the bank, he pivoted to online sales
through their website. This bold move paid off, and online revenue helped the
business survive. From 50+ outlets pre-Covid, they grew to over 100 stores
post-lockdown.
A Nationwide Brand with Global Style
By 2021, Royaloak had 150 stores, split between company-owned and franchises.
They partnered with 300 global factories and expanded their product range to
include home, office, airport furniture, and home decor. Prices ranged from
affordable wall art to luxury recliners. They charged a one-time ₹5 lakh
franchise marketing fee, offering two investment options—₹50 lakh and ₹1 crore.
Family Behind the Success
Royaloak is a family-run brand with Vijai as Chairman and his brother Mathan as
Managing Director. Maheshwari heads home decor and marketing. The couple has
three children—daughter Vishruthi (18), and sons Vihaan (14) and Vivaan (10).
Despite his busy schedule, Vijai enjoys golf and meditation to keep balanced.
Staying True to Values
Even with a ₹600 crore turnover, Vijai hasn’t forgotten his roots. He ensures
Royaloak maintains quality and customer satisfaction. The company offers a
one-year warranty on most products, reflecting their belief in durability and
trust. With over 200 stores and growing, Royaloak has become a household name
in Indian furniture.
Words of Wisdom to Entrepreneurs
To those dreaming of entrepreneurship, Vijai offers heartfelt advice: “Don’t
chase only money. Focus on vision, integrity, discipline, and quality. Success
will follow if you believe in your purpose and stay committed to your values.”
His journey from selling tea on a bicycle to building India’s top furniture
brand is proof that resilience and belief can shape destiny.
Timeline Overview:
- 1975–1992:
Childhood and schooling through hardship
- 1992–1995:
College and first business (tea powder)
- 1995–1996:
Failed move to Chennai and restart in Coimbatore
- 1996–1999:
Job at Standard Chartered, first exhibition success
- 1999–2003:
Shift to Bengaluru, start of furniture trade
- 2004–2010:
Store expansion and marriage
- 2010–2017:
Royaloak launch and early growth
- 2020–2021:
Surviving and thriving during COVID
- 2021–Present:
Royaloak’s national expansion and leadership
