What makes some brands like Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers one of the Jewels of Leadership and pioneers in shaping the future of the jewellery industry? More than anything else, it comes to the brand’s enduring bond created over centuries with its loyal customers through a legacy of trust, transparency, culture, ethos, ethics, and resolute honesty.
Today, synonymous with India’s pioneering jewellery brands, Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers is the quintessential name for every jewellery-loving customer. The current Business Head, Neel Tushar Pethe, shares that legacy with us.
A Legacy of 116 Years
Neel recounts that Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers was founded in 1909 by two brothers, Ganesh Hari Pethe and Waman Hari Pethe, who built the brand on a foundation of mutual trust and integrity. Their vision extended beyond simply selling jewellery; they sought to establish a legacy based on craftsmanship and reliability. At the time, India was experiencing significant social and economic changes, and the brothers recognised an opportunity to create a business rooted in values that would endure for generations.
Over the years, the brand has evolved while remaining true to its core principles. What began as a small shop in Mumbai has now expanded to 29 stores, each embodying the same commitment to quality and customer service. The growth of Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers has not been solely about increasing the number of stores but also about preserving the personal touch and familial atmosphere instilled by its founders. As the business has adapted to changing tastes and technologies, it has never compromised on the quality of its materials or the skill of its artisans.
Rising Above the Challenges
Throughout its journey, the company has faced numerous challenges, including economic downturns, changing consumer preferences, and increasing competition. Neel shares, “Being in the retail sales industry, every day, there are challenges. We have been fortunate that whatever challenge we have faced, we have sailed through. We have seen various challenges, from the Gold Control Act to demonetization to the introduction of GST. Since we are compliant with all the rules and regulations set by the government, whatever challenge we face, there is always a way if you have a calm head on your shoulders.” However, the foundation of trust—both within the family and with customers—has remained its guiding force. The brand has consistently invested in its people, its community, and the enduring value of its name.
“We Uphold Our Values”
Neel, a fifth-generation entrepreneur and a leader in the jewellery industry, upholds these values. He emphasises the importance of accessibility, ensuring that most stores are conveniently located near public transport hubs such as bus stops and railway stations. He believes that jewellery should not be perceived as a distant luxury but as an integral part of the community, making it easier for customers to experience the tradition of Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers.
Embracing Modern Principles
The company has also expanded its reach beyond its traditional Maharashtrian clientele by opening stores in prominent shopping malls like R-City and Phoenix Marketcity. This move has allowed the brand to introduce its craftsmanship to a wider audience while maintaining its strong heritage. Balancing tradition with innovation, the brand continues to evolve by embracing new opportunities without losing sight of its roots.
Innovation
Innovation plays a key role in shaping the brand’s identity and growth. “It definitely does,” feels Neel. With the advent of artificial intelligence and technological advancements, Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers has incorporated AI-based tools to stay relevant and enhance efficiency. Neel says, “We are one of the design leaders in the industry. Our loyal customers love our designs.”
Novel Designs
However, innovation is not limited to technology; it is also reflected in the brand’s approach to design. The company leads the industry with its design brand, NAVINYA, which reinterprets traditional jewellery pieces with modern concepts. Launched annually during the Navratri festival, the NAVINYA collection exemplifies the seamless blend of heritage and contemporary flair.
A Deep-Rooted Leadership Philosophy
Neel attributes the brand’s success to leadership principles passed down through generations. “I’m a 5th Gen entrepreneur, what I have been learning from my previous generations is that you should always use the customer-first approach while following all the SOPs. See to it that you don’t overcommit and under-deliver. While doing all of the above, keep striving for excellence while not forgetting your roots and staying humble,” he says. He follows a customer-first approach while adhering to standard operating procedures, ensuring that promises made to customers are always honoured. His philosophy revolves around integrity, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement, all while staying humble and connected to the brand’s origins.
Prioritizing Sustainability
Sustainability and ethical sourcing are also key priorities for the company. Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers actively uses recycled gold and silver and supports local artisans. “We try to use a lot of recycled gold and silver. We see to it that we support local artisans. There are a few certifications without which some things can’t be traded, like Kimberly Process Certification, ethical mining practices etc.,” shares Neel.
The Advice “Trust is Paramount”
As competition in the jewellery sector intensifies, Neel emphasizes the importance of trust. He believes that success in this industry depends on maintaining the faith of consumers and advises emerging leaders never to compromise on this trust. “There is huge competition in the current jewellery sector. Being successful in this field requires much trust from your end consumer. My advice is don’t do anything that will break that trust,” he advises.
Inspiring the Future
Looking ahead, Neel envisions the continued growth of Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers while upholding the legacy established by its founders. He informs, “We just opened our 29th store in Mangaon (Dist- Raigad) on 7th Feb 2025.”
The overwhelming support from clients, customers, employees, and well-wishers serves as a reminder of the brand’s deep-rooted values. “We wish to have the continued support of our loyal clients, to have success, and to keep on growing to meet their demands,” he adds.
The new generation of custodians is committed to embracing change and overcoming challenges while preserving the brand’s essence. Their aspiration is to maintain Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers as a symbol of tradition and innovation, strengthening relationships with customers and making a lasting impact on the community. Ultimately, the brand strives to leave behind a legacy of integrity, excellence, and trust, inspiring future generations to uphold its enduring values.
