Sarvash Kalra | Dayal Opticals
Did you know that over 2.5 billion pairs of eyewear were sold worldwide in 2024? From prescription glasses to stylish sunglasses, the eyewear industry has transformed into a dynamic blend of functionality and fashion. Finding the perfect pair of glasses can be as transformative as finding the perfect outfit. In India’s eyewear market, Dayal Opticals has been at the forefront of this revolution, setting the standard for luxury and innovation for over six decades. They have stood as a beacon of luxury, innovation, and craftsmanship for over six decades.
Established in 1961 by Shri Dayal Das Kalra, Dayal Opticals has pioneered the Indian luxury eyewear market. Today, under the leadership of Managing Director Navneet Kalra and Director Sarvash Kalra, one of India’s youngest visionaries, the company combines its rich heritage with modern sensibilities. Sarvash started initiatives like the launch of India’s first luxury eyewear pop-up store and the expansion of the brand’s online presence.
Dayal Opticals is synonymous with luxury, offering a curated selection of globally renowned brands such as Cartier, Maybach, Chanel and Dior, alongside exclusive boutique brands like Anna Karin Karlsson, John Dalia, and Sato. The company also provides different optical services, from custom lens fittings to advanced vision care solutions, for a personalized and comprehensive eyewear experience. Dayal Opticals has 16 stores across Delhi/NCR, Mohali, and Chandigarh, with plans for further expansion. As part of our ongoing expansion, we recently launched India’s first luxury eyewear pop-up store at CP-67 Mall in Mohali, Punjab.
The company prides itself on its personalized approach to helping customers find the perfect eyewear to complement their style and lifestyle. This dedication to customer service, with the commitment to the finest craftsmanship and advanced technology, has earned Dayal Opticals prestigious awards such as the You & Eye Best Eyewear Retailer (All India) Award and the Essilor Luxottica Partner Par Excellence Award. This blending of legacy with innovation has allowed the company to not only maintain its strong position in the market but also expand its reach and redefine the luxury eyewear experience in India.
In the spotlight is Director Sarvash Kalra in an interview for our prestigious “The Most Inspiring Business Leaders Of The Year 2025” edition. Learn from his insights and valuable lessons as an entrepreneur to excel and make it the best company. Stay tuned.
Prime Insights: Brief us on the inception story of the company.
Dayal Opticals was established in 1961 by Shri Dayal Das Kalra, driven by a vision to bring high-quality eyewear and advanced vision care to India. What began as a humble optical store quickly earned a reputation for its commitment to craftsmanship, precision, and exceptional customer service. Shri Dayal Das Kalra’s dedication laid the foundation for a brand that would go on to pioneer luxury eyewear in the country.
Today, this rich legacy of over six decades is carried forward by his son, Navneet Kalra, our Managing Director, whose leadership has expanded the brand’s presence across the capital of the country and solidified its position as a leader in the industry. Joining him is the newest member of the team, Sarvash Kalra, our Director and one of India’s youngest visionaries, who brings a fresh, modern perspective to the brand. Under his guidance, Dayal Opticals opened its first stores outside Delhi-NCR, in Punjab, and has also been one of the first opticians to launch an e-commerce website.
Our goal is to grow and spread the vision of luxury eyewear across India so that Dayal Opticals continues to excel for generations to come.
Prime Insights: How have you kept a balance between your personal life and professional one?
Balancing my personal and professional life has always been about setting priorities and maintaining a sense of discipline.
On the professional front, my role as Director at Dayal Opticals demands focus and dedication, especially as we continue to expand and innovate in the luxury eyewear space. I make it a point to stay fully present when I’m at work, making sure that I give my best to the team, the brand, and our vision for the future.
One thing that has significantly influenced how I approach challenges, both personally and professionally, is my love for sports. Sports teach resilience, strategy, and the importance of teamwork—for leadership. Whether it’s cricket, track & field, or a quick workout session, sports have instilled in me the ability to stay calm under pressure, analyze situations more effectively, and make decisions with clarity. Much like in sports, every decision in business needs focus, adaptability, and a readiness to take calculated risks.
At the same time, I value the time I spend with my family and close friends. Whether it’s pursuing hobbies, traveling, or simply spending quality time at home, I make space for the things that truly matter outside of work.
The key for me has been to maintain boundaries and understand the importance of delegation. I trust my team and their abilities, which allows me to focus on strategic decisions without being caught up in the minutiae. This helps my business while giving me time to nurture my personal life.
Ultimately, it’s about staying true to what matters most—whether it’s the relationships I hold dear, the goals I work toward professionally, or the lessons I’ve learned on the field.
Prime Insights: Being a business leader, is your story of struggle any different from others?
I wouldn’t call it a struggle—it’s a journey with its fair share of learning curves and opportunities. Carrying forward a 60-year-old legacy like Dayal Opticals comes with a deep sense of responsibility. Balancing the traditions laid by my grandfather, Shri Dayal Das Kalra, with the modern demands of the industry has been both challenging and rewarding. Adapting to the rapid shifts in consumer behavior, especially with the rise of e-commerce and digital trends, required us to step out of our comfort zone. But instead of seeing it as a hurdle, I’ve always approached it as a chance to innovate and grow. It’s been less about proving myself and more about ensuring that our vision for Dayal Opticals continues to inspire trust and admiration. whether it’s launching India’s first luxury eyewear pop-up store or expanding into new cities, has been guided by the belief that the best way to honor a legacy is to evolve with it.
Prime Insights: Prime Insights: How do you keep up the pace with the changing market trends?
Keeping up with changing market trends is all about staying curious and adaptable. I believe the key is to listen—whether it’s to our customers, our team, or what’s happening globally in the industry. Every bit of feedback and insight helps us make better decisions and stay relevant.
At Dayal Opticals, we focus on blending timeless values with modern ideas. Whether it’s launching new initiatives like India’s first luxury eyewear pop-up store or introducing tools to enhance the shopping experience, we approach change as an opportunity to grow while staying true to our legacy.
We keep up with the ever-changing market trends by doing research and development and taking calculated risks. This approach helps us to anticipate customer needs and adapt to industry shifts effectively.
I also rely on the incredible team around me. Their passion and fresh ideas constantly inspire new ways of thinking and doing things. Ultimately, it’s not about racing to keep up, but about steadily evolving and making sure that we provide the best experience for our customers. That’s what keeps us moving forward.
Prime Insights: Do you believe R&D is essential for the growth of the company?
Research and development are the backbone of any company’s growth, especially in a competitive and evolving industry like ours. At Dayal Opticals, R&D isn’t just about staying relevant—it’s about anticipating what’s next and creating solutions that meet the needs of our customers even before they realize them.
Through our research, we recognized a limited availability of high-quality prescription lenses in India. We introduced ZEISS prescription lenses in our stores and on our website, ensuring our customers have access to superior vision solutions.
We also take pride in being among the first eyewear brands in India to incorporate the ZEISS VISUCORE 500, one of the world’s most advanced eye-testing machines. This state-of-the-art equipment enhances our eye examination process, providing precise and comprehensive assessments for our clients.
For us, R&D goes beyond product innovation. It’s about understanding customer behavior, market trends, and technological advancements that can elevate the entire shopping experience. Whether it’s identifying the latest eyewear designs, integrating new lens technologies, or enhancing the retail experience with digital tools, R&D helps us push boundaries while staying true to our legacy of quality and craftsmanship.
I firmly believe that innovation driven by research helps companies to grow sustainably. It ensures we stay connected to our customers and continuously improve what we offer. Without R&D, it’s easy to fall behind; with it, we have the opportunity to lead and redefine what’s possible in the luxury eyewear space.
Prime Insights: How necessary do you feel is it to keep your employees content, how do you ensure it?
For me, the store environment and atmosphere are the most important part of work. I believe keeping employees’ content is incredibly important. A happy and motivated team is the reason behind any successful organization. At Dayal Opticals, we focus on building an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
For me, it’s about regular communication and understanding their needs. Listening to their ideas, appreciating their efforts, and making sure they feel a sense of belonging. I always emphasize the bond amongst the team members as well, because if the energies are positive, the results will follow.
We also try to provide growth opportunities and ensure a healthy work-life balance. Recognizing their contributions, even in small ways, helps create a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
Ultimately, it’s about fostering trust and teamwork. When employees feel content and connected to the vision of the company, everything else naturally falls into place.
Prime Insights: Who do you look up to and what do you convey further to the ones who look up to you?
I have learned from a lot of people in my early years but I have always looked up to my father, Navneet Kalra, whose dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping Dayal Opticals into the brand it is today.
To those who look up to me, I would say: stay true to your values, embrace continuous learning, remain resilient in the face of challenges, and most importantly, live what you do. No matter what you do, find joy in doing it, you will naturally improve in no time. I feel like success is a journey that requires patience, hard work, and a commitment to excellence.
Prime Insights: What are your thoughts on leader participation in the entrepreneurial world?
I believe leader participation in the entrepreneurial world is essential. Leaders bring experience, vision, and a sense of direction that can inspire and guide teams to achieve their goals. In the entrepreneurial space, this role becomes even more critical because it’s about taking calculated risks, navigating challenges, and setting the tone for innovation and growth.
For me, leadership is not just about decision-making but also about being present—actively engaging with the team, understanding their perspectives, and building a collaborative environment.
Prime Insights: What message do you want to give to those business leader who give up on their dreams because of some stereotypes?
I understand that stereotypes can be discouraging, but your dreams are important and worth pursuing. Believing in yourself and your vision is key. Remember, many successful leaders have faced similar challenges and have overcome them by staying true to their goals. Tough times will always come, but it is important to overcome them by staying determined. Your perseverance can inspire others and help break down these barriers. Keep moving forward; your efforts can lead to meaningful change.
Prime Insights: What does the company hold for it in the future (Plans)?
At Dayal Opticals, we are dedicated to expanding our presence by entering new cities and introducing exclusive international luxury eyewear brands to the Indian market. Our ultimate goal is to transform Dayal Opticals into a globally recognized brand, providing customers with a vision of luxury that combines our rich heritage with modern innovation.
Prime Insights: What milestones and achievements do the company boast of?
Award Recognition: We are honored to have received the ZEISS ‘YOU&EYE’ AWARD 2024 for Best Eyewear Retailer – Retail Chains (All India), reflecting our dedication to providing exceptional service and quality to our customers. I am also deeply humbled to have been recognized by ZEISS as the GEN X Leader within the ‘YOU&EYE’ Awards category. This prestigious recognition is not just a personal milestone but also a powerful motivation to further elevate the brand’s presence and work towards making it a global name.
Pioneering Luxury Eyewear Pop-Up Studio: We proudly launched India’s first luxury eyewear pop-up studio, providing an exclusive and personalized shopping experience that brings premium eyewear closer to our clientele.
Exclusive Collaboration with John Dalia: We have collaborated with the renowned international brand John Dalia to create an exclusive range of high-end luxury eyewear, including the limited-edition ‘Amaru’ sunglasses. This partnership shows our commitment to bringing unparalleled craftsmanship and design to our customers.
Introduction of Boutique Eyewear Brands: We have introduced over 15 boutique eyewear brands in India, expanding the choices available to our discerning customers and setting new trends in the luxury eyewear market.
- Enhanced Accessibility to International Products: Through our extensive network, customers no longer need to travel abroad or incur additional costs to access premium eyewear. They can conveniently shop for the same high-quality products through our website or at our stores.
- IMAGES Retail Icon Award: Presented to Navneet Kalra, Managing Director of Dayal Opticals, at the IMAGES North India Retail Awards 2024, celebrating his leadership and significant contributions to the retail sector.
- Excellence in Customer Service – Boutique Stores Retail Chains (All India): Recognized by You&Eye Magazine, highlighting our commitment to delivering outstanding customer service.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Bestowed upon Shri Dayal Das Kalra, founder of Dayal Opticals, acknowledging his enduring impact on the optical industry.
- Excellence in Clinical Support – Retail Chains (All India): Awarded by VisionPlus Magazine, underscoring our dedication to providing superior clinical support in eyewear retail.
- Best Unisex Eyewear Online Store 2023 – Delhi: Conferred by Corporate Vision Magazine, recognizing our online store’s excellence in offering a diverse range of unisex eyewear.
These milestones reflect our ongoing dedication to enhancing the eyewear experience for our customers through innovation, quality, and exclusive offerings.
Prime Insights: How are you giving back to society (CSR)?
At Dayal Opticals, we are dedicated to contributing positively to society through various initiatives aimed at enhancing eye health, particularly in underserved rural regions of India.
In collaboration with the Aloka Vision Programme, a ZEISS initiative, we have undertaken efforts to provide high-quality optical frames to individuals in need. This partnership focuses on addressing the challenges of poor eyesight in rural areas, where access to eye care services is often limited.
Our approach involves engaging our customers in this mission. When visiting any Dayal Opticals branch, with each purchase, customer has the option of adding a nominal amount of 1rs to his/her invoice. That gives the consent to donate a frame to someone in need. This collective effort helps us extend the gift of clear vision to many, improving their quality of life and daily functioning.
We believe that by working together with our customers and partners, we can make a meaningful impact on eye health in rural India, ensuring that more individuals have access to the vision care they deserve.
Prime Insights: Lastly, is there a message you would like to give to Prime Insights readers?
I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your interest in Dayal Opticals. Your support inspires us to continue our journey of providing quality eyewear and exceptional service.
As we expand into new cities and introduce premium luxury eyewear brands in India, our goal remains to offer you the finest in vision care. We are committed to making Dayal Opticals a global brand, bringing luxury eyewear to discerning customers worldwide.