Rasiya who fought facial tumour, ended up a skincare entrepreneur

Rasiya prefers to be known as a practitioner of traditional medicine, than an entrepreneur. Even at the age of 60, Rasiya considers this knowledge, handed over to her by her ancestors, the real treasure. Meanwhile, she owns an Ayurvedic skincare and cosmetic brand called Sifa Naturals. Rasiya who is an experienced practitioner of traditional or indigenous medicine, sees her business as an opportunity to help others. That is the reason why she has been energetically leading this brand and is committed to sending her products to her customers from all around the globe. For Rasiya, these customers are her ‘own’ people because they never bothered to look for other brands in the market since they started purchasing products from Rasiya.

However, there was a time when Rasiya thought that she couldn’t return from the painful clutches of tumour. It was only her confidence and determination that helped her bounce back to life. Even though surviving the tumour was difficult, Rasiya was determined to live. She is extremely grateful to her husband and two daughters for their incredible support during those days of pain and struggle.

When her grit beat the tumour
Tumour made a distasteful entry as Rasiya was living a blissful life with her husband and daughters. When she learned that the tumour had affected her face, Rasiya began studying in depth about the condition. The doctors advised her to remove the parotid gland; but, she was determined to overcome the disease.

“As the tumour was on my face, I had done some research on Google to know the side effects and also the changes that would happen on my face. I realised that the tumour would affect most parts of my face including my ears, nose and eyes and my problems would continue even if the tumour is removed surgically. Even the doctor told me the same things. My ears would be completely closed and I would not be able to shut my eyes. She told me that I would struggle to overcome these difficulties at least for some time after the surgery. Nevertheless, I got ready for the surgery.

I still have the photograph of my face after the surgery, because I want to remind myself what I have endured and this is my second life. My face drooped, speech became unclear and I couldn’t shut my eyes. I even thought that my life was ending. But, I kept telling myself that I should move on. That strength from within has helped me regain my life. Even the doctors were surprised at seeing my recovery. My face improved significantly within two months after the surgery. I soon began my journey back to myself,” says Rasiya.

Age is not a bar
Rasiya began thinking about doing something on her own after her recovery. She decided to sell skincare and haircare products as knowledge of traditional medicine was in her blood. She began her business by selling herbal hair oil in 2-litre bottles. She started her business enterprise during the pandemic times. More than a lucrative business, Rasiya wanted to share her knowledge with a few people whom she knew. Rasiya family are traditional vaidyars or practitioners of indigenous medicine. So, she didn’t have to think twice before choosing the path that was shown by her ancestors.

“The first product was a hair oil. When that oil began getting good reviews, I made beetroot oil. I made beetroot oil after I got a few orders from the friends of my elder daughter who is settled abroad. I had to make beetroot oil up to three times a week to meet those orders. Even though I didn’t have any idea about running a business in the initial days, I learned the basics of business from my friend in Australia. Besides, I didn’t have to think twice before naming the brand after my mother. The officials at the Indian Institute of Spices and Research and the panchayat members have been supportive, giving me instructions and other help,” notes Rasiya.

Rasiya’s products began gaining popularity after she became a member of QGB, a community of women entrepreneurs. She says that the community helps and supports even old women like her to find a niche for themselves in the market. She soon began making many kinds of products and shared them in their group. The products were instant hits and Rasiya began getting orders not just from Kerala but also from outside the country. Now, Rasiya’s skincare and other herbal products have regular takers from various parts of the world. Moreover, these customers often recommend these products to their family and friends.

Lover of traditions
Rasiya began concentrating on traditional medicine after she got married. She recalls how she had struggled hard during the initial days. She went to Nasik to learn soap making after she had her first child. During those days, she had to take all the products herself to the market to sell as the facilities were limited. She then tried her hands in many businesses along with her husband. Rasiya advises that anyone could shine in business or any other enterprise if they have the heart and willingness to work hard.

Besides skincare and haircare products, Rasiya sells instant masala powders too. Moreover, she is a successful entrepreneur who gives employment to hundreds of people. Her radiant glow face oil was chosen as the third-best innovative product at the exhibition held at the Indian Institute of Spices and Research. Rasiya says she was so excited as it was an unexpected honour. The demand for her radiant glow face oil skyrocketed with this incredible achievement. Now, this face oil is the flagship product of Sifa Naturals.

“My greatest achievement after starting this business is that the customers who purchase my products have now become my close friends. I was able to win their trust and my heart fills with joy when they give me positive feedback. I feel the same happiness when someone praises our children. Age is not a barrier, for trying anything in life. There is nothing we can’t achieve if we have the heart to work hard. I believe that if we give our 90 percent then God will help us with his 10 percent, says Rasiya.

Rasiya is also the acting president of the Ayurveda Traditional Medical Union (ATMA) of Kozhikode.