Lijjat Papad is a household name in India. It’s a brand and a symbol of women’s empowerment and entrepreneurial spirit in India. The journey of Lijjat Papad from a small cooperative to a successful business is a story of determination, unity, and hard work. So here made an Inspiring Success Journey of Lijjat Papad for you.
About Lijjat Papad
Lijjat Papad is an extraordinary tale of female empowerment and entrepreneurship. The story of Lijjat Papad will rechristened Indian Women’s Empowerment across India and beyond. It is the heartwarming journey of Lijjat Papad. This company began with seven resourceful women and a modest loan of 80 rupees and grew to become a global icon. The company is now renowned for its delectable papads and unwavering commitment to social change. Here, we have prepared the inspiring success story of Lijjat Papad, including its unique ownership model.
A Humble Beginning on a Mumbai Rooftop
The successful journey of Lijjat Papad began in 1959 in Mumbai. The journey of Lijjat Papad started in a small apartment block in Mumbai by Seven women from a small locality in Girgaum. The seven women – Jaswantiben Jamnadas Popat, Parvatiben Ramdas Thodani, Ujamben Narandas Kundalia, Banuben N. Tanna, Laguben Amritlal Gokani, Jayaben V. Vithalani, and Diwaliben Lukka decided to make papads.
Papads are an Indian snack that is delicious and crunchy and the favorite fast food of most Indians. These 7 women, hailing from diverse backgrounds and possessing varying levels of education, decided to make a burning desire to support their families and improve their financial standing. For this, they decided to make papads.
Initially, they used to sell the papads to their neighborhood, and the word mout of publicity helped to get an excessive growth in demand. So later on, they named their household industry ‘Shri Mahila Griha Udhyog Lijjat Papad.’ The word ‘Lijjat’ means tasty in the Gujarati language.
For this, they have financed the Rs 80 Lakh Loan. When they bought basic ingredients and utensils and started making papads, these women, with no formal business training, relied on their skills, hard work, and vision to create something valuable.
Similarly, their cooperative was based on Gandhian self-reliance and collective ownership principles. Where every member of the cooperative, referred to as a ‘sister,’ had an equal share in the profits and responsibilities. This model ensured that the growth and success of the business directly benefited the women involved.
The Birth of a Lijjat Papad: Unity in Diversity
The demand grew steadily as their papads gained popularity for their exceptional taste and quality. So, the other women from the same community joined hands to expand the supply of Lijjat Papad in that area. So, with this, they have created a cooperative model group, ‘ Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad,’ to empower women and increase their productivity.
This unique cooperative model was the cornerstone of Lijjat’s success. It empowered women by giving them equal ownership and a voice in decision-making. Profits were shared equitably, and every member had a stake in the company’s growth. This collective model and equality in the organization’s values help contribute to shared and equal responsibility among all the women to grow the cooperative collectively.
Lijjat Papad Company: A Women-Led Powerhouse
Currently, more than 45,000 women are employed at this Lijjat Papad Cooperative. Starting from the small-scale rooftop industry to the topmost industry in papad production is an inspiring journey for all of us. The mutuality of seven women had uplifted this organization to the top level by providing tasty papads and empowering thousands of women.
The employees of this organization are affectionately called ‘Lijjat Sisters.’ They work across numerous branches throughout India, each operating as an independent unit responsible for producing and distributing Lijjat Papad.
Similarly, this decentralized model ensures efficient production and empowers women at the grassroots level. Each branch is managed by a dedicated team of women who oversee production, quality control, and distribution.
This management structure is the key to Lijjat’s success. Also, providing equality and mutuality fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among its employees.
A Recipe for Success: Quality, Consistency, and Community
The Success of Lijjat Papad recipient is more than a unique business model. The major recipe behind the success of this organization is quality and consistency. Using the finest ingredients, adherence to traditional recipes, and stringent quality checks on each papad kept them in the hearts of millions of Indian consumers. Also another prime reason for its success is a testament to its dedication to excellence.
Moreover, Lijjat Papad’s deep-rooted connection with the community has been a driving force behind its growth. The company outsources the RAM materials from the local level (farmers) to provide them with valuable rates for these raw materials. On the other hand, the direct raw materials from the farmer are fresh and chemical-free. With these steps, they support the farmers and provide them with a steady income and local economy. Lijjat’s commitment to social welfare initiatives, such as education and health care programs for its employees and their families, has strengthened its bond with the community.
Beyond Papads: A Diversified Portfolio
While papads remain Lijjat’s flagship product, the company has expanded its portfolio to include a diverse range of food products, including khakhra, masala, bakery items, and more.
This diversification has boosted the company’s revenue and provided consumers with wider options to intake delicious products from their favorite in-house brands. Also, these products are healthy and tasty.
A Global Phenomenon: Spreading the Taste of India
Lijjat Papad’s popularity has been spreading to the Global market, too. Most Nepalese consumers and the rest of the world trust the taste of Lijjat. This global reach has not only generated substantial revenue for the company.
The Lijjat Legacy: Empowering Women, Transforming Lives
The impact of Lijjat Papad extends far beyond its commercial success. The company has empowered more than 45,000 women, providing them employment opportunities. Also, their social contribution and welfare program have provided quality living for thousands of families, providing them with employment opportunities and financial independence.
Also, the Lijjat Papad becomes the platform to showcase their skills and talents. Lijjat’s commitment to social welfare has uplifted communities by empowering women and helping local farmers.
Lessons from Lijjat Papad: A Recipe for Empowerment
The Lijjat Papad story is a powerful reminder of women’s empowerment and their collaboration. They showed the best fruit from determination, collaboration, and focus on quality.
It inspires aspiring entrepreneurs, women’s empowerment groups, and anyone who believes in the transformative power of business.
