In the symphony of Indian flavours, there’s a crisp little wonder that has stood the test of time—Papad. Served on every traditional thali, relished with pickles or chutneys, and savoured with evening tea—this crunchy delight isn’t just food… It’s emotion, it’s heritage!”
But beyond the crackle of this humble snack lies a story that’s even more flavourful—a tale of grit, grace, and groundbreaking unity. A story of seven ordinary women with an extraordinary dream… who turned a mere Rs. 80 into a Rs. 1600 crore empire, now known in every Indian home as Lijjat Papad.”
It all began in 1959, when the world doubted what women could do beyond their homes. But these seven bravehearts—armed not with degrees or business plans, but with belief, bond, and a rolling pin—changed the narrative forever.
Today, we revisit the crunchy, spicy, inspiring journey of Lijjat Papad—where every bite is a testament to women’s empowerment, unity, and timeless tradition. So, stay with us, as we unfold a story that’s not just made in kitchens… but carved in history.
Emergence of Lijjat Papad
The early days of the startup were quite smooth, starting with just four packets of papads, they managed to sell around Rs 6000 worth of products in the first year. Itself.
However, through tireless efforts and unwavering determination, they began to rise by 1962. They finally adopted a brand name, called Lijjat. The same year, the sales of the Lijjat papad soared to nearly Rs 2 Lakhs, marking a significant journey to become India’s popular brand.
Operated by the Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad, a women’s worker cooperative. This unique platform not only provided employment but also empowered women by offering them opportunities like ownership and financial independence.
Lijjat Papads skyrocketed in demand
The brand soon became synonymous with high-quality and delicious taste, and the demand for Lijjat Papad soared rapidly across the states.
Started by seven women in the early years, the organisation soon got over 45,000 women involved in papad-making.
Today, the Lijjat Papad brand has become the most familiar and consumer-trusted brand among people.
The company has more than 80 outlets across India and has already ventured into the global markets, and regular exports to countries like the USA and Singapore.
Roadblocks to Success
Meanwhile, Lijjat Papad, a remarkable journey filled with tons of challenges that were overcome through constant determination and will power. These challenges included
Initial Capital: Started with a modest investment of Rs 80, the 1600 crores empire was never a foreseen milestone.
Infrastructure: Started on the terrace of a building, with minimal infrastructure for manufacturing.
Consistency and support: Maintaining the product consistency and fulfilling the demands of the people was the toughest challenge to complete.
Technology: Due to the decentralised model of production, Lijjat preferred manual labour over machines, which could produce papads faster and at a lower cost.
Although despite these hurdles, Lijjat Papads’ success story is indeed an epitome of the collective women’s empowerment
Awards and Recognition
Over the decades, the Lijjat Papad has been a tremendous success and emerged as the most trusted and highly preferred brand by people across the world.
The brand has been bestowed with many awards and recognitions. In 2021, Jaswantiben Popat, one of the founders of Lijjat, was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri award, highlighting the impact of Lijjat Papad on women’s empowerment.
Additionally, the company has also received the Businesswoman of the Year award from the Economic Times in 2002. In 2003, it received the Best Cottage Industry award and Brand Equity from the former President of India, APJ Abdul Kalam, in 2005.
Nevertheless, breaking the age-old patriarchal doctrines and philosophies of a male-dominated society. The shining story of Lijjat Papad has proved the power of women’s empowerment to blossom into a giant bloom of success.