In a recent conversation with Indian Startup Times, Samrath Singh Nagpal and Harnaam Kaur, co-founder of Easy Rugs, shared insights into the brand’s journey, vision, and future plans. Samrath provided a compelling narrative on how Easy Rugs is revolutionizing India’s home furnishing industry by making high-quality designer rugs more accessible to domestic consumers.
The Genesis of Easy Rugs
Samrath, who pursued law and later management at the University of Warwick, previously managed vacation rental properties before co-founding Easy Rugs. His partner, Harnaam Kaur, is an experienced interior designer specializing in luxury projects. Their entrepreneurial journey began when they attended a rug exhibition and were struck by the beauty and craftsmanship of Indian rugs—only to realize that most were prohibitively expensive and largely exported. This realization sparked the idea of creating an affordable, designer rug brand tailored for Indian consumers.
Challenges in Manufacturing and E-Commerce
Turning this vision into reality wasn’t without challenges. The duo faced hurdles in convincing traditional rug manufacturers to innovate and adapt to modern consumer preferences. Additionally, selling rugs online presented difficulties due to their weight and the prevailing perception of rugs as a high-maintenance product.
To address these issues, Easy Rugs introduced practical innovations, such as anti-skid backing and washable materials. Sustainability is also a core principle, with each 4×6 rug made using approximately 100 recycled plastic bottles. These thoughtful design elements ensure that the products balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
A Transformative Shark Tank Experience
Easy Rugs’ appearance on Shark Tank India was a defining moment for the brand. Samrath described the experience as ‘surreal’ yet highly professional. A pivotal moment during the pitch was when investor Anupam Mittal spilled coffee on one of their rugs, demonstrating its stain-resistant properties live on television. This moment, along with their compelling pitch, secured investment from Aman Gupta and Vinita Singh.
The post-Shark Tank impact was immediate—website traffic surged, ‘add to cart’ rates spiked, and brand awareness skyrocketed. The company is now undergoing due diligence with its investors, while Aman Gupta has encouraged them to take bolder risks and accelerate brand growth. There was also discussion about potentially rebranding Easy Rugs in the future.
Strategic Growth and Expansion Plans
Easy Rugs currently operates with a lean team of 6-7 people, prioritizing quality over rapid expansion. Samrath emphasized their strategy of focusing on website sales before venturing into major marketplaces. The company is set to expand its product line to include doormats and is working on designs that cater specifically to Indian households.
Looking ahead, Easy Rugs aims to transform into a comprehensive home furnishing brand. Plans are underway to introduce a flagship store in a tier-one city such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, or Mumbai within the next three years. Additionally, the brand is developing a kids’ collection featuring tactile, educational rug designs.
Entrepreneurial Insights and Industry Outlook
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Samrath’s advice is simple yet profound: “Don’t wait for the perfect product—just start.” He recounted how they launched Easy Rugs with just ₹50,000, relying on their keen sense of design and an understanding of customer needs.
The company is also exploring collaborations with interior designers and home décor brands to further strengthen its market presence. As part of future media engagements, Easy Rugs is set to collaborate with Indian Startup Times for broader exposure, including an introduction to Mr. Ramesh Chandra Purohit for potential synergies.
Conclusion
Easy Rugs is not just a brand; it is a movement towards making premium home furnishings accessible to Indian consumers. With a clear vision, a commitment to sustainability, and an evolving product line, Samrath and Harnaam are poised to redefine how Indian homes embrace stylish and functional décor. As they take bold steps forward, one thing is certain—Easy Rugs is on its way to becoming a household name in India’s home furnishing space.
-Interview conducted by Sandhya Bharti, Deputy editor, Indian Startup Times
