Sukhada Chaudhary
| 159 views | 4 min read
In an engaging conversation, Sagar Khade, a seasoned Chartered Accountant, shares his transformative experience with social investing through Rang De.
With over two decades of expertise in business transformation, strategy development and financial performance management, Sagar has leveraged his skills to impact lives across India. Here’s a look into his journey and the significant strides he has made in the field of social investment.
Sukhada: Sagar, you’ve had an impressive career in finance and strategy. What inspired you to start social investing with Rang De?
Sagar Khade: My background in economics always fueled my interest in public policy and governance matters. Despite actively engaging in debates over social and economic priorities, I felt a disconnect between our discussions and the visible impact on the ground. The rural distress seemed almost invisible from our urban perspective. I realised the futility of mere intention without action. That was a turning point for me—I wanted to actively contribute rather than just talk.
Sukhada: How did you start your social investment journey?
Sagar Khade: I began by investing monthly with Rang De. In fact, I started social investing on my birthday last year (2023). It was fascinating to see the diversity of needs across the country. On my own, I could have never thought of supporting farmers of Marathwada in Maharashtra, farmers involved in animal husbandry in Assam, shopkeepers of Uttar Pradesh and artisans of Tamil Nadu sheerly due to the physical distance. Rang De provided me with a unique platform where I could lend support to small and micro entrepreneurs across the country.
Sukhada: That sounds quite impactful. How many states have you invested in so far, and what has the experience been like?
Sagar Khade: As of the last count, I've invested in projects across 18 states, creating numerous days of livelihood. It has been a year, and I can see that the repayment track record has been fairly good. Yes, there were some delays here and there. Rang De proactively communicated about such delays and shared the relevant information when needed.
Sukhada: How has your interaction been with the Rang De Investees?
Sagar Khade: I had an eye-opening experience during a field trip near Mumbai organised by Rang De. Meeting the investees personally showed me the tangible impact of my investments on marginalised communities. It’s one thing to see numbers and another to witness real-life changes.
Sukhada: Beyond direct social investing, have you explored other avenues to support Rang De?
Sagar Khade: Yes, I recently subscribed to a couple of rounds of equity funding raised by Rang De. This investment was a significant one as it differed from my other equity investments, focusing more on sustainable impact rather than immediate financial returns.
Sukhada: What drives you to continue your support through social investing?
Sagar Khade: I am deeply aware of my privilege. I want to use my privilege for the greater good and express my gratitude towards the society where I come from. I am inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s view on success.
What is success? To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate the beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!
As I reflect, my heart is filled with immense joy that I started social investing. I look forward to this journey of creating a virtuous cycle.
Sagar Khade’s journey is a testament to the power of combining professional expertise with a passion for social change. You too can join this journey of creating change and impact in rural India through social investing.
Invest in farmers, rural entrepreneurs and artisans today at rangde.in - create impact and get repaid with interest!
