From Humble Beginnings To Spice Empire Of Rs 15,000 Crore: The Legacy of MDH's Dharampal Gulati

“Kitchen King ho ya garam masala, paav bhaji ya chunky chaat masala. Asli masale sach sach, MDH MDH”

If you sang the above line instead of reading it, then you my friend, belong to the elite class!

Remember Spice King and MDH uncle Dharampal Gulati, who was regularly seen in MDH masala ads? He has been an unforgettable part of our collective childhoods.?

MDH

Dharampal Gulati, born on March 27, 1923, in Sialkot (now Pakistan), came from a family with strong ties to the spice industry. His father owned a well-known spice shop called Mahashian Di Hatti(MDH), famously known as Deggi Mirch Wale. However, when he was 24 years old, the traumatic events of Partition disrupted their lives, compelling them to abandon their ancestral home and business due to the violent upheavals and riots.

Dharampal Gulati’s Early Struggles

Upon arriving in Delhi, Gulati encountered the daunting task of rebuilding his life, resorting to various odd jobs to sustain his family. Despite the formidable challenges, he drew upon his heritage and eventually founded the renowned MDH spice brand, marking a remarkable return to his roots in the spice trade.

Building His Spice Empire - MDH

As per The Financial Express report, Gulati embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with just Rs. 1500, exploring diverse business avenues until he secured a modest shop in Karol Bagh, Delhi. This marked the inception of Mahashian Di Hatti, later renowned as MDH, earning the moniker "DEGGI MIRCH WALE."

TOI

In the course of time, MDH ascended to prominence, emerging as India's second-largest spice producer and distributor, boasting a significant market share of 12 percent. With a diverse portfolio comprising over 60 products, exported to 100 nations, MDH garnered acclaim for its superior quality and rich flavor, enhancing both culinary experiences and international relations.

Gulati Was Bestowed With The Prestigious Padma Bhushan Award

Gulati's remarkable contributions to the spice industry were recognized with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 2019, underscoring his enduring commitment and profound influence. Moreover, he garnered attention as the highest-paid CEO in the FMCG sector at the remarkable age of 94, surpassing established industry figures.

On December 3, 2020, at the age of 97, Dharampal Gulati passed away, leaving behind an enduring legacy of entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Despite his demise, MDH, valued between Rs 10,000-15,000 crore according to various media reports, continues to flourish, serving as a testament to Gulati's visionary leadership and enduring legacy.

MDH Masalas Court Controversy

Pinterest

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the food safety regulator, has mandated quality inspections on the products of well-known Indian spice brands MDH and Everest Group. This directive comes in response to allegations of these products containing a cancer-causing pesticide.?

If you want to know more about, read this -?Explained: Why Are MDH And Everest Spices Under The Spotlight? What Is Ethylene Oxide?" Explained: Why Are MDH And Everest Spices Under The Spotlight? What Is Ethylene Oxide?/b>