United States-based Sunny Bathela’s entrepreneurial journey began with a simple but powerful idea: just as people worldwide wear watches with Roman numerals, why not ones with Hindi numerals? In November 2023, he launched VIANI, a watch brand that pays tribute to South Asian mathematicians of the 6th and 7th centuries by incorporating Hindi numerals into its design.
A second-generation Indian American, Sunny was searching for a watch that reflected his Indian heritage but found none that met his vision. This sparked the idea to create his own. He spent a year and a half prototyping, using a computer numerical control (CNC) machine and laser printer before partnering with a Swiss manufacturer to bring VIANI to life.
Sunny’s passion for design started young. He learned Photoshop in the second grade and created a calendar that still hangs in his parents’ home in Raleigh. Encouraged by compliments on his prototype at events, he realized the market potential and committed himself to developing the brand.
What sets VIANI apart is not just its Hindi numeral design but also its solar-powered mechanism. Just two minutes of light can charge the watch for a full day, while six hours can sustain it for six months. Light penetrates through the dial face, reaching a solar panel sourced from Japan. The numerals, crafted from stainless steel, protrude from the watch face for a distinctive, elegant look.
Currently, 10 unisex models are available on VIANI’s website, priced at $380. Since launching, sales have primarily come from word of mouth and trade shows, but Sunny is working towards expanding into retail stores.
Despite his success in the watch industry, Sunny’s background is in science. He earned degrees in biochemistry and genetics from North Carolina State University in 2014, later pursuing a doctorate in optometry. Today, he practices in South Bronx, New York.
Sunny credits his entrepreneurial drive to his father, who owns a paint store in Raleigh, and his mother, who has a tailoring background. Outside of work, he also enjoys DJing for family and friends.
As he continues to refine VIANI, Sunny aims to expand the brand internationally while staying true to his passion for design, culture, and innovation.
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