Rohit Parihar, a Jodhpur-based handcrafted gift manufacturer, has been in business since 2007. After graduating in 2005, he expanded into exports and created his own brand, 'Ethnic Clock Makers', in 2009. He exports exclusive clocks to various countries.

Hailing from Jodhpur, Rohit Parihar is the director and founder of Ethnic Clock Makers by Shree RoopShree Art Exports in Jodhpur. He is a manufacturer and exporter of handcrafted gift items. He has been in this business since 2007.

Earlier, Rohit used to sell his products locally only, but after his graduation in 2005, he expanded into exports. In 2009, he created his own brand, ‘Ethnic Clock Makers', and started exporting exclusive handcrafted clocks to many countries, including France, Italy, Germany, Turkey, the UK, the USA, Australia, and Japan.

Rohit was born and brought up in Jodhpur. He did his graduation in computer science. Then he entered into business. His father had been trading in rice, but Rohit ventured into a totally new field. Also, his education was in science, so initially he encountered some difficulties in understanding business but gradually overcame the hurdles.

Rohit was born into a business family, so he had a natural inclination for business. After completing his graduation in computer science, he decided to venture into business. Initially, it was difficult for him to understand the basics of business, as all he studied was science. However, he quickly adapted and learned the necessary skills to succeed.

During the COVID pandemic, Rohit says that everything went upside down, including his business. His business was locked down, and as it is a manufacturing business, it deals in mostly gift items and showpieces. Many of the labourers were migrating, and he made all his efforts to provide them with the best of their facilities, including giving them housing facilities and ensuring they had access to basic amenities. But as his company was not getting orders, it was a real challenge for him to continue to provide for his employees. But with his perseverance and determination, he was able to overcome this challenge and continue to support his employees. He was able to keep his business running and provide for their needs.

Speaking about his challenges, Rohit says that business was new for him, but fortunately, his product is unique, and soon it will have created its own niche in the handicraft market. As he manufactures antique ethnic clocks and other decorative items, he has been able to gain a loyal customer base. But Chinese products have been flooding the market, making it difficult for him to compete. But with his quality products, he is able to maintain his competitive edge.

Rohit says that with the help of the Jodhpur Handicraft Association, he and his fellow entrepreneurs are making their efforts to save the artisans. The new generation of artisans is leaving their art, but Rohit and the other members of the association are working towards creating awareness and providing support to encourage them to continue their craft. They are also exploring new markets and export opportunities to expand their reach and ensure the sustainability of the handicraft industry in Jodhpur.

When asked about whether education or experience is more important, Rohit says that education is equally important as experience is. He says that when he joined his business, as he was from the science field and had no experience in the industry, he had to learn everything from scratch. But because he was educated, it was easier for him to understand the industry and make informed decisions. So, he thinks education helps to learn and understand the industry more quickly and effectively.

Rohit admires his father and looks up to him as his role model. His father used to take him to exhibitions, shows, and other social gatherings and meetings so he could learn and develop his skills and knowledge in the industry. He is also influenced by his maternal grandfather, who used to make ethnic clocks. He is the real inspiration behind Rohit's passion for clockmaking. His grandfather's craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques have deeply influenced Rohit's own approach to creating unique and exquisite timepieces. With the combined guidance of his father and grandfather, Rohit has been able to successfully carry on the family legacy and establish himself as a renowned clock maker in the international market.

Talking about leadership, he says that he always listens to all his team leaders and other employees. He gives due importance to the opinions of all his employees. He believes every problem has a solution, which can be discovered through discussions and brainstorming sessions. He enjoys discussing problems and finding innovative solutions.

In his spare time, as Rohit loves traveling, he enjoys going on long drives with his family. He is an ardent foodie. He sometimes goes to different cities just to enjoy the food served in the restaurants there.

Rohit has also been a district-level cricket player and a state-level table tennis player. He enjoys playing games like chess, carom, etc. with his family members. He sometimes helps his wife with cooking.

Rohit’s message to all is “Stay healthy. Eat whatever you like, but burn away the extra calories.” He also says, “Learn from others; the best people are the people around you.” Taking advice from the people around you can help you grow and improve in various aspects of life. Additionally, he believes in the power of sharing knowledge and experiences, as it can lead to personal and collective growth. He also urges everyone to keep believing in the nation, government, and self.

Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and surrounding oneself with supportive and inspiring individuals. This can contribute to overall well-being and foster a sense of community and unity.