Kashmir Shikara branding of Su-kam
The crisp mountain air whipped through the open window of the car as it snaked its way through the winding roads of Kashmir. Inside, Mr. Kunwer Sachdev, founder of Su-Kam Power Systems, sat engrossed in a map, his eyes scanning the route to their next destination. Beside him, I, his young marketing executive, felt a mix of anticipation and trepidation. This wasn't just another dealer meet; it was a journey into the heart of Kashmir, a land of breathtaking beauty and untapped potential. https://invertermanofindia.com/2025/03/25/the-heart-of-indias-inverter-independence-the-legacy-of-kunwer-sachdev/
As we reached Srinagar, the city unfolded before us like a watercolor painting. The vibrant hues of the houses, the shimmering Dal Lake, and the colorful shikaras gliding across its surface created a mesmerizing spectacle. But as we delved deeper into the local market, a different picture emerged. The shikaras, once a symbol of Kashmir's vibrant culture, appeared weathered and neglected, their wooden frames bearing the scars of time and neglect.
Mr. Sachdev, ever the keen observer, noticed this immediately. He stepped off the car, his gaze drawn to a group of shikaras moored by the shore. Their owners, men with weathered faces and calloused hands, sat idly by, their eyes reflecting a hint of despair.
"Why do they look so… defeated?" Mr. Sachdev asked, his voice laced with concern.
I explained that the shikara owners faced numerous challenges, from the rising cost of maintenance to the unpredictable weather. The lack of proper coverings for their boats exacerbated their woes, leading to frequent repairs and reduced income.

Mr. Sachdev, however, saw an opportunity. "We can help them," he declared, his eyes twinkling with a mischievous glint.
And so, the Su-Kam Shikara Project was born. Within days, our marketing team, working tirelessly, arranged for the procurement and distribution of high-quality, weather-resistant covers for every shikara on the lake. Each cover bore the Su-Kam logo, a subtle yet impactful branding strategy.
The response was overwhelming. The shikara owners, initially hesitant, were overjoyed. The new covers not only protected their boats but also added a touch of vibrancy to the lake, transforming the fleet into a floating canvas for the Su-Kam brand. Tourists, intrigued by the colorful covers, would often inquire about the logo, creating a ripple effect of brand awareness.
The Shikara Project was more than just a marketing campaign; it was a testament to Mr. Sachdev's unique philosophy. He believed in empowering communities, in finding innovative ways to connect with people on a deeper level. He understood that true brand loyalty stemmed from shared values and a genuine desire to make a difference.
News of the initiative spread like wildfire, attracting the attention of other businesses. Soon, competitors followed suit, offering their own versions of branded shikara covers. But Su-Kam, as the pioneer, had already etched its name into the hearts and minds of the people of Kashmir.
The Shikara Project was not just a marketing success; it was a human story, a story of empathy, innovation, and the power of a single spark to ignite a wave of positive change. And as I watched the shikaras glide across the lake, their vibrant colors reflecting the sunlight, I knew that the legacy of Mr. Kunwer Sachdev, the man who saw not just a business opportunity but a chance to uplift a community, would continue to inspire generations to come.