K-Lite Industries: Redefining India’s Lighting Industry

In the rapidly evolving world of business, Sharmila Kumbhat, Director, K-Lite Industries Pvt. Ltd. stands out as a visionary leader who has left an indelible mark on the lighting industry. Her story is one of perseverance, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Her professional journey spans continents and industries, driven by her passion for transforming the world around her, and breaking the barriers for women in business.

Path to success

Sharmila Kumbhat began her business journey at the young age of 16. Working in Metal Craft, a fabrication unit, she honed her technical and leadership skills. At just 19 years of age, she earned the prestigious “Best Female Entrepreneur Award” from the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, marking a significant milestone in her career.

Keen to expand her knowledge, she pursued her study of design in New York. During her years in the U.S., she founded and operated two successful export-oriented companies, gaining deep insights into the dynamics of global business. However, her desire to contribute to India, led her to join her family business (K-Lite Industries) in Chennai, a leading manufacturer of luminaires and decorative poles.

At K-Lite Industries, she introduced innovative design concepts, and streamlined operations, transforming the company into a modern, system-driven entity. Her emphasis on quality, modularity, and design not only strengthened the company’s position in India but also expanded its global footprint. Under her leadership, K-Lite began to supply custom lighting solutions to prestigious projects like the Indian Parliament area, the Parliament complex in Cairo, and religious sites like the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Ayodhya, and Varanasi. Her journey reflects her ability to blend design with innovation, driving K-Lite’s success both locally and internationally. A cherished memory of hers is spending time with Ratan Tata, whose leadership and values impacted her profoundly.

Shaping the future of smart lighting

Sharmila Kumbhat’s visionary approach to business led her to focus on smart lighting solutions, as cities around the world began to move towards energy-efficient and intelligent lighting systems. Recognizing the role that lighting plays in urban planning and smart city development, she led K-Lite’s expansion into this space. The result was the creation of K-Lite Europe in London, which is serving the growing European market with advanced lighting solutions. This expansion has positioned K-Lite as a leader in smart lighting, catering to the evolving needs of modern urban environments. Collaborating with international designers and consultants, she continues to push the boundaries of what lighting can achieve. Her philosophy of “taking one step at a time and giving the best” has guided K-Lite’s growth, ensuring the company stays at the forefront of innovation while maintaining sustainable business practices.

Empowering women

Sharmila Kumbhat is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and believes in creating equal opportunities for everyone. At K-Lite, over 50% of the workforce is female, which is remarkable in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Her commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment stems from her belief that everyone has unique strengths and potential. What sets her apart is her unwavering commitment to empowering others and promoting diversity.

She leads with a collaborative and empowering style, encouraging her team to embrace creativity and innovation. Her own journey, marked by resilience and determination, serves as an inspiration to women across industries. By breaking barriers in a male-dominated sector, she has shown that women can not only succeed but also lead in highly competitive industries. She actively mentors young professionals, both within and outside her organization. Her leadership has become a beacon of hope for women aspiring to break into entrepreneurship and business leadership.

Inspiring new generations

Sharmila Kumbhat’s vision for the future is to create lighting solutions that not only meet today’s needs but also anticipate tomorrow’s demands. Her work in smart city lighting, sustainable design, and global expansion has positioned K-Lite as a leader in next generation lighting solutions.

In a constantly evolving world, her leadership is a reminder of what can be achieved through determination, vision, and a focus on both business and social progress. As she continues to expand her horizons, she remains a guiding force in the lighting industry and a role model for aspiring businesswomen worldwide.