Lijjat Papad's Success Story: How 7 Ordinary Women Built Rs 1600 Crore Empire With Just Rs 80

Not only in India, but women across the world are shining in different sectors. They are breaking age-old patriarchal doctrines and raiding what was traditionally considered male bastions. In the heart of India's entrepreneurial landscape lies a remarkable story of perseverance, solidarity, and the empowerment of ordinary women that spans generations.

Lijjat Papad, a beloved household staple, isn't just a tasty treat; it's a symbol of resilience and opportunity. Let's know the inspiring journey of how seven remarkable women turned a mere Rs 80 investment into a thriving Rs 1600 crore empire.

Even today, whenever we see different types of papads placed in the supermarket, those memories become fresh again. Similarly, when we look at Lijjat Papad, we feel a sense of trust and women empowerment in them. There might be hardly anyone in India who is unaware of the delicious Lijjat Papad. The popularity of Lijjat Papad is as great as the story of its success. Started by seven friends and housewives - Jaswantiben Jamnadas Popat, Parvatiben Ramdas Thodani, Ujamben Narandas Kundalia, Bhanuben N. Tanna, Laguben Amritlal Gokani, Jayaben V. Vithalani, and Diwaliben Lukka, Lijjat Papad has now become a successful and inspiring story.

The journey of Lijjat Papad:

Lijjat Papad sucess story

The year was 1959, a time when India grappled with significant developmental challenges. Illiteracy, especially among women, was rampant, and economic opportunities were scarce. It was against this backdrop that seven visionary women from Mumbai, armed with determination and a simple yet revolutionary idea, embarked on a journey to transform their lives.

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The Vision Takes Shape:

With just Rs 80 and a shared dream, these enterprising women set out to breathe new life into a struggling papad-making business. Their plan was ingenious: to create a product that required minimal investment and could be made within the confines of their homes. Thus, Lijjat Papad was born.

Overcoming Initial Hurdles:

The early days were filled with challenges. With only four packets of papads and a meager Rs 6,000 in sales during the first year, the road to success seemed daunting. However, fueled by unwavering determination and relentless effort, they persevered.

The Rise of Lijjat Papad:

By 1962, the tide began to turn. Adopting the name "Lijjat" through a contest, the brand started gaining traction. Sales surged to nearly Rs 2 lakh, marking the beginning of their ascent to prominence.

Empowering Women through Cooperative Model:

Lijjat Papad operates as the Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad, a women's worker cooperative. This unique model not only provides employment but also empowers women by offering them ownership opportunities and fostering financial independence.

Expanding Horizons:

As word of Lijjat's delicious, high-quality papads spread, demand soared. From a small group of women, the organisation has now grown to include over 45,000 members. Today, Lijjat Papad has a presence in 82 branches across India and has ventured into international markets, exporting to countries like the US and Singapore.

Awards:

Lijjat Papad received the Business Woman of the Year award from The Economic Times in 2002, the Best Cottage Industry Award in 2003, and the Brand Equity Award from the then President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, in 2005.

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Recognition and Honours:

In 2021, Jaswantiben Popat, one of the co-founders, received the prestigious Padma Shri award, highlighting the significant impact of Lijjat Papad on women's empowerment and the manufacturing sector.

The success story of Lijjat Papad is a testament to the power of determination, unity, and women's empowerment. What began as a modest venture by seven ordinary women has blossomed into a Rs 1600 crore empire, providing employment and financial autonomy to thousands. Lijjat Papad not only satisfies taste buds but also embodies hope, opportunity, and the unwavering spirit of women, inspiring us to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Note: Details mentioned here are as per the information available.

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