Every entrepreneur’s journey carries a personal story, and for Shubham Pille, it is one of vision, resilience, and purpose. At 29, Shubham runs Stay Ukiyo, a platform that curates verified homes across India, generating a GMV of ₹18 crores within three years. His story is not just about business success—it is about turning personal inspiration and challenges into a transformative hospitality brand.
Shubham grew up with an innate fascination for hospitality. Even before founding Stay Ukiyo, he was drawn to the ways spaces can make people feel safe and welcomed. The COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal moment. As the world came to a halt, he realized that travelers were no longer just seeking destinations—they wanted trusted, homely experiences that felt personal. This observation became the seed of Stay Ukiyo, launched in 2022 with an initial capital of ₹50 lakh.
From the outset, Shubham faced immense challenges. People management, operational coordination, and brand partnerships tested his abilities. Yet, personal adversity played a crucial role in shaping his approach. The loss of his father was deeply impactful, instilling in him a desire to step up for his family and build something enduring. Shubham says, “I can’t fill his shoes, but I want to create a legacy that honors the care and dedication he showed.” This personal motivation drives his tireless work ethic and commitment to quality.
Stay Ukiyo embodies Shubham’s philosophy that details define the experience. Every property is Ukiyo-verified, ensuring comfort, cleanliness, and design excellence. Homes are categorized into Classic, Luxe, and Elite, providing distinct experiences for families, couples, and corporate groups alike. Guests benefit from concierge-level services, including private chefs, chauffeurs, and curated local activities. Partnerships with brands such as Saffron Stay, Stay Vista, Anavrin, and Higher Villa provide diversity, ensuring that every traveler finds a space that resonates with their needs.
Shubham attributes much of his growth to mentorship and support networks. From his family to industry advisors and LinkedIn connections, he emphasizes that entrepreneurship is rarely a solo journey. Learning from others’ experiences, seeking guidance, and maintaining humility have been key to navigating obstacles and building a reliable platform.
The market opportunity became evident as travelers increasingly favored privacy, flexibility, and authenticity over standard hotel experiences. Stay Ukiyo not only addresses these demands but also empowers property owners, boosts tourism in smaller cities, and strengthens local economies. Shubham describes it as a win-win ecosystem where guests, owners, and the broader hospitality industry benefit.
His entrepreneurial uniqueness comes from a blend of innocence, patience, and gratitude. He sees work as a blessing, stays hungry to improve, and consistently prioritizes guest satisfaction and partner reliability. His advice to budding entrepreneurs is grounded: gain industry experience, embrace technology, maintain focus, and celebrate incremental wins.
Ultimately, Stay Ukiyo is more than a business; it is the manifestation of Shubham’s personal vision: to create spaces that feel like home, no matter where you travel. By blending meticulous verification, personalized services, and a deep understanding of guest needs, Shubham Pille has built a brand that redefines the Indian hospitality landscape.