India Untold

A women-led international business of Rs 1600 crore

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Contributing to family’s expenses

In March 1959, 7 women from South Mumbai embarked on a business venture with hopes of making their family’s financial condition stable. 
 

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Becoming independent

This group of women generated additional income by making papads (deep fried Indian wafers). 
 

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Overcoming challenges

During a financial crisis, a social worker Chhaganlal Parekh lent them a loan of Rs 80 to continue their business. 
 

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Story behind the name

The business was named ‘Lijjat.’ In Gujarati language, the word ‘Lijjat’ translates to ‘delicious.’ 
 

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The beginnings

Only four packets of papad were sold in the beginning. But the unmatched taste of Lijjat Papad quickly garnered appreciation and the demands began to grow. 
 

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Gradually, the business transformed into a co-operative system.

Many women joined the business and started working together.
 

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45 thousand women working together

Today, the Lijjat Papad co-operative system boasts a workforce of over 45 thousand women. All the women are referred to as ‘Lijjat Sisters.’
 

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Shri Mahila Grah Udyog Lijjat Papad

In 1962, the organization officially got registered as ‘Shri Mahila Grah Udyog Lijjat Papad.’
 

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Global recognition

Presently, the turnover of Lijjat Papad is Rs 1600 crore and the products are exported to over 25 countries.

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