At BrilliantRead Media, we always strive to bring meaningful and powerful stories from India and around the world to empower and motivate our growing community. As part of this endeavour, we invited Mitali Desai for an exclusive interview with us. Mitali is an Entrepreneur and Co-Founder & COO at Black White Orange Brands Pvt. Ltd. Let’s learn more about her background, journey and her advice for our community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Mitali:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
I have always been fascinated by brands, storytelling, and the power of entertainment to create emotional connections with people. Early in my career, I worked across the media and entertainment industry, which gave me a unique perspective on how stories, characters, and cultural moments travel far beyond the screen and become part of people’s lives.
In 2015, we founded Black White Orange Brands with the vision of building a strong and professional brand licensing ecosystem in India. At the time, licensing was still an emerging space in the country, but we believed that iconic entertainment properties had tremendous potential to connect with Indian consumers through products, collaborations, and immersive experiences.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of working with some incredible global brands — from Universal Studios’ Minions and Jurassic World, to classics like Jaws and Back to the Future. We have also collaborated on Netflix properties such as Stranger Things, Squid Game, and Bridgerton, along with timeless characters like Mr. Bean and Popeye. In addition, we have worked with some of the most celebrated names in the anime world, including Dragon Ball Z, Crunchyroll, and Demon Slayer.
What began as a small entrepreneurial venture has evolved into a platform that brings some of the world’s most beloved stories closer to fans across India and South Asia. For me personally, it has been a journey built on curiosity, persistence, and the joy of creating something meaningful alongside an incredible team.
How did you discover your passion?
My passion truly began with a deep love for iconic characters and the immersive worlds built around them.
Working in this industry often gives you access to incredibly exciting experiences — visiting film studios, watching early footage of films before their release, exploring immersive theme parks, and getting behind-the-scenes glimpses into how legendary characters and stories are created.
Being able to witness that magic up close is truly special.
What makes the work even more fulfilling is the opportunity to translate that magic into something tangible — whether it is a product, a collaboration, or an experience that fans can bring into their everyday lives.
Creating merchandise inspired by iconic films, globally loved series, and memorable characters is incredibly rewarding because these stories hold deep emotional value for people.
When you get to work with some of the most exciting intellectual properties in the world and create products that fans might cherish for years, it’s hard not to feel passionate about what you do.
Who do you believe has been the biggest source of motivation in your daily life?
My family has always been my greatest anchor. Entrepreneurship comes with its fair share of unpredictability, and having a strong support system helps keep you grounded through both the highs and the challenges.
My five-year-old son, in particular, has become an unexpected yet powerful source of motivation in my daily life. Children have a wonderful way of reminding us about curiosity, patience, and perspective. Seeing the world through his eyes constantly encourages me to stay curious, ask questions, and appreciate the small wins along the way.
He is also my biggest source of strength. No matter how demanding the day may be, coming home to him resets everything.
Professionally, my co-founders and team are a tremendous source of inspiration. Building a company from the ground up is never a solo effort — it requires collective belief, collaboration, and resilience. Watching people grow, take ownership, and bring ideas to life is incredibly motivating.
And of course, the industry itself keeps me energized. When you work in a world filled with creativity, storytelling, and global brands — from blockbuster film franchises to beloved characters — there is always something exciting on the horizon.
What are some strategies that have helped you grow as a person?
One of the most important things that has helped me grow is maintaining a sense of curiosity. The entertainment and brand landscape is constantly evolving, so staying open to learning and adapting is essential.
Another key lesson has been embracing challenges. Some of the most meaningful growth happens when things do not go as planned and you are forced to think differently.
For example, we recently launched our own e-commerce brand, a47.in, which is bold, disruptive, and deeply inspired by the spirit of India. At the same time, we are working on building our own original intellectual property this year — C.O.R.E., an experience designed to offer something entirely new to consumers.
Projects like these keep us energized and constantly pushing boundaries.
I have also learned the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people — mentors, collaborators, and team members who challenge you to think bigger and better.
And finally, staying grounded. No matter how exciting the work becomes — whether collaborating on global IPs or launching new initiatives — it is important to remain grateful for the journey and the people who make it possible.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
Success, in my view, is a combination of clarity, consistency, and resilience.
First, you need clarity about what you want to build and why it matters. Then comes consistency — the discipline to show up every day and keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow.
Integrity is equally important. Relationships and trust are at the heart of any successful venture, especially in industries built on partnerships.
And perhaps most importantly, resilience. Every entrepreneurial journey includes moments of uncertainty, but the ability to keep going, learning, and evolving makes all the difference.
What advice would you give to our readers?
Stay curious and never be afraid to follow unconventional paths.
Some of the most exciting opportunities today exist at the intersection of creativity, culture, and business. If something genuinely excites you — whether it is storytelling, technology, or building brands — explore it deeply.
Also, remember that success is rarely a straight line. There will be challenges and moments of doubt, but those experiences often shape your strongest lessons.
Most importantly, stay authentic and grounded. Build things you are proud of, work with integrity, and enjoy the journey along the way.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
