Born on 25 February 1984 in the small village of Waranghushi, Akole Taluka, Ahmednagar, Suraj Bhavari grew up in challenging circumstances. With farming proving unprofitable, young Suraj had to help tend the family livestock while continuing his education. Even as he pursued his secondary education, he knew he had to build a future where financial independence was possible.
His entrepreneurial instincts first surfaced while observing the village grocery store. Despite having little knowledge or capital, he opened his own grocery store in 2005. The business generated income but demanded immense effort, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., leaving little time for leisure or social life.
After running the store for four years while simultaneously applying for government jobs, Suraj secured a government position in 2009, temporarily pausing his entrepreneurial ambitions. Yet, his heart remained in business, and in 2012 he ventured into the tourism sector, acquiring a 7-seater car for operations. Despite facing operational challenges, including driver fraud and low profits, he learned vital lessons in resilience and management, eventually selling the vehicle in 2016.
Exploring New Ventures: Agriculture and Services
Suraj’s entrepreneurial spirit persisted. In 2018, he entered goat farming, managing both a personal and a partner-run farm. Though the partnership ended after two years, his personal farm was profitable. Growing up in a society where business was often dismissed, Suraj faced criticism and neglect but continued undeterred.
By 2020, recognizing the lower investment requirements in the service sector, Suraj established a private limited company, gaining valuable experience, though turnover was modest at around ₹10 lakh annually. He invested profits back into business knowledge and operations, laying the groundwork for future success.
Mentors and Support System
Suraj attributes a large part of his success to the guidance and support of mentors and colleagues. Key contributors include Shrikant Pawar, Gopal Kadal, Ravishankar Bari, who helped him secure office space and provided critical encouragement, as well as Ganesh Shinde and friends from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar—Harendra, Vijay Munna, Sanjay—who shared technical expertise and business insights. His wife, Manisha Bhavari (CEO), and co-CEO Nisha Kulal, provided consistent support in management and operations, ensuring the venture remained on a strategic, long-term path.
The Birth of ZIKSUM Elevator Pvt. Ltd.
After studying the elevator industry for several months and gaining technical knowledge, Suraj launched ZIKSUM Elevator Pvt. Ltd. in February 2025. Within just two months, the company secured its first project—a 16-floor, 2-tower residential development. Over the year, ZIKSUM expanded to two offices with an 11-member team, delivering high-quality, technical, and compliant elevator solutions to residential, commercial, and society projects.
Suraj’s mantra has always been:
“Not just to get work, but to build a brand based on quality, trust, and timely execution.”
Remarkable Growth in One Year
In an industry that demands technical expertise, safety standards, and client trust, ZIKSUM Elevator achieved a ₹1 crore turnover in just one year. This milestone reflects meticulous planning, efficient execution, client satisfaction, and stringent quality control. After-sales service, adherence to safety regulations, and long-term client relationships have ensured sustainable growth.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his entrepreneurial excellence, Suraj Bhavari received the prestigious Maharashtra Business Icon Award, honoring not just financial success but disciplined management, strategic growth, and relentless effort. The award celebrates leadership, teamwork, and operational excellence, and serves as motivation for future expansion.
Vision for the Future
Suraj’s vision goes beyond financial growth. He aims to incorporate modern technology, generate employment, and provide safe, environmentally conscious elevator solutions. Believing that local entrepreneurs can achieve global standards, he hopes to inspire a new generation of Indian business leaders.
Suraj Bhavari’s journey demonstrates that with vision, discipline, perseverance, and the right support system, any dream—no matter how modest the beginnings—can become a reality.
Selected for Maharashtra’s Prestigious Awards
Recognizing his dedication and achievements, he has been selected for the prestigious “Maharashtra Business Icon 2025 / Maharashtra Style Icon 2025 / Maharashtra Fashion Icon 2025” awards.
This honour is being presented by Reseal.in and India Fashion Icon Magazine, celebrating Maharashtra’s emerging entrepreneurs and artists.
The selection marks a proud moment not only for him, but also for the entire region.
Presence of Renowned Film Personalities
The grand award ceremony will be graced by celebrated film personalities:
-
Ms. Varsha Usgaonkar (Bollywood Actress)
-
Ms. Sonalee Kulkarni (Indian Actress)
-
Ms. Prarthana Behere (Indian Actress)
Event Hosted Under Expert Leadership
The event is organized under the leadership of Mr. Sudhir Kumar Pathade, Founder & CEO of Reseal.in (Sure Me Multipurpose Pvt. Ltd.), who continues to provide a national platform for Maharashtra’s rising entrepreneurs, designers, and creative talents.
For more style updates & exclusive fashion stories follow indiafashionicon.com
