Cooking Up Success: Indian Grandmas Who Run Profitable Food Businesses

In recent years, a remarkable trend has emerged in the Indian food industry, spotlighting grandmothers who have turned their culinary passions into profitable businesses. These enterprising seniors have proven that age is no barrier to entrepreneurial success. Leveraging traditional recipes, family heritage, and a deep love for food, these grandmothers are redefining what it means to start a business in later life. From homemade pickles to artisanal snacks, their ventures are not only lucrative but also a celebration of India's rich culinary traditions.

1. Harbhajan Kaur

At 90 years old, Harbhajan Kaur, affectionately known as the "Barfi Queen", embarked on a remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Her business, Harbhajan's Made With Love, which focuses on traditional barfi sweets, began as a small-scale home operation and has blossomed into a successful venture. Kaur's barfis are celebrated for their authentic taste and quality, attracting a loyal customer base both locally and beyond.

Kaur’s entrepreneurial story is particularly inspiring given her advanced age. Despite facing challenges, she has managed to build a thriving business, demonstrating that passion and dedication can lead to success at any stage of life. Her venture has not only revived interest in traditional sweets but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of senior entrepreneurs. At 94, Kaur continues to lead her business with enthusiasm, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing one's dreams and achieving entrepreneurial success.

2. Usha Gupta

After the death of her husband and her own battle with COVID-19 during the pandemic, 88-year-old Usha Gupta, affectionately known as Naani ji, found a new calling. Motivated by a desire to support the underprivileged, Gupta launched Pickled With Love, a pickle business recommended by her grandchildren. This venture allowed her to channel her grief into something positive while continuing her passion for cooking. Gupta's efforts have provided substantial relief, with the business helping over 65,000 homeless individuals across four cities.

Supported by her granddaughter, Dr. Radhika Batra, Gupta has expanded her initial offerings of khatta aam (sour mango pickle), grated mango chutney, and gulabi meetha achaar (sweet pickle) to include a variety of flavours. Through this heartfelt initiative, Gupta not only honours her late husband but also makes a significant impact by using her culinary skills to aid those in need, demonstrating how personal hardship can be transformed into a powerful force for good.

3. Maiyya Thapa

Boju’s Kitchen, meaning 'Grandma’s Kitchen' in Nepali, is a heartwarming family venture born during the pandemic. Initiated by 87-year-old Maiyya Thapa, her daughter Arati, and granddaughter Chitrangada Gupta, the business began with a modest investment of Rs 2,000. The idea emerged when Chitrangada suggested transforming their shared passion for making momos into a home-based enterprise. The lockdown had left many craving their favourite snacks, leading to a surge in demand for Boju's Kitchen's momos.

Located in the vibrant 32nd Avenue in Gurugram, Boju’s Kitchen has become a celebrated spot for Northeastern cuisine. The menu showcases a variety of momos, along with other North Eastern specialties, Asian dishes, and refreshing beverages. This family-run establishment not only highlights the rich flavours of the Northeast but also stands as a testament to how traditional family recipes can adapt and thrive in challenging times.

4. Rajinder Kaur Chatha

The story of Rajinder Kaur Chatha, who started her culinary brand Ammiji’s at the age of 92, exemplifies that entrepreneurship knows no age limits. Rajinder, who was married in 1948, initially struggled with the flavourless chai in her new home. Determined to recreate the comforting taste of chai from her childhood in Amritsar, she began experimenting with spices purchased from the local bazaar. Her successful blend of flavours not only satisfied her own palate but eventually became beloved by many across India.

With her granddaughter, Amrita Chatwal, now leading the brand as the Chief Chopper and Bottle Washer, Ammiji’s continues to thrive. The brand, inspired by Rajinder’s initial chai experiments, has expanded to include a variety of products such as shikanji (lemonade), bullet mirchi (a spicy topping), Punjabi chicken pickle, and gudmirchi aachar (a green chili pickle with jaggery). This legacy of traditional recipes and entrepreneurial spirit highlights how family heritage and personal resilience can lead to successful ventures at any stage of life.

5. Urmila Asher

Urmila Asher, affectionately known as ‘Gujju Ben’, has transformed her passion for cooking into a thriving business with her brand, Gujju Ben Na Nasta. The journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when Asher, at the age of 75, decided to support herself and her grandson after he lost his business. Drawing on her expertise in traditional Gujarati recipes, she started by selling pickles and quickly expanded her offerings to include a variety of snacks such as khakhra, dhokla, and thepla. Her dedication to quality and homemade authenticity resonated with customers, leading to a successful enterprise.

Asher’s business, which now boasts annual revenues of Rs. 45 lakhs, has also seen significant growth, including the hiring of staff and leasing a commercial kitchen. Asher’s venture not only exemplifies perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit but also underscores the deep satisfaction she derives from seeing others enjoy her healthy, traditional snacks. Her journey continues to inspire many, highlighting how passion and resilience can lead to remarkable success later in life.

The success stories of these Indian grandmothers highlight the boundless potential of entrepreneurship, regardless of age. Their businesses are not only profitable but also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of India. By combining traditional recipes with modern business practices, these remarkable women have proven that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions and make a significant impact in the food industry. Their ventures continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of entrepreneurs.