Lijjat Papad: A Journey of Taste, Empowerment, and Transformation

In 1959, seven women from Mumbai came together with a simple dream: to support their families while staying true to their roots. With just ₹80 borrowed from a kind-hearted social worker, Chhaganlal Karamshi Parekh, they rolled out their first batch of papads. What started as a small venture on a terrace grew into something much bigger—a movement that has transformed the lives of thousands of women across India.

Today, Lijjat Papad is not just a brand but a symbol of women’s strength and unity. Over 45,000 women, lovingly called the “Lijjat Sisters,” work together to create papads and more, bringing smiles to families around the world.

The Start of Something Extraordinary

Back in the 1950s, opportunities for women were limited. But these seven housewives decided to change that. They started small—making papads by hand and selling them to local shops. With guidance from Chhaganlal Parekh, they managed to turn their skills into a growing business.

From the beginning, they had three clear goals:

• Empower Women: Help women gain financial independence and self-respect.
• Equality: Every woman involved was treated like a sister.
• Top Quality: Every papad had to be perfect.

Their dedication paid off. By the second year, hundreds of women had joined them, and their venture became known as Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad.

A Cooperative of Unity and Equality

Lijjat is more than a business—it’s a family of women. Every woman is an equal owner, and profits are shared among all members. This unique model allows women to work from home, balancing their jobs with household responsibilities.

Every morning, women collect dough from local Lijjat centers. They roll the papads at home and return them for packing. This flexible system has given countless women, like Lakshmi from Delhi, a chance to stand on their own feet. “Lijjat gave me a way to support my children and build a future for them,” she says.

A Brand That Became a Household Name

Lijjat Papad grew steadily through the years, but the 1980s brought a big breakthrough. The brand became a household name with its cheerful TV ads featuring a white rabbit, spreading joy and trust in every home.

As Lijjat grew, so did its range of products. Today, the organization offers 27+ products, including:

• Papads
• Traditional Masalas
• Ready-Mix Masalas
• Chapati and Gahu Atta (Wheat Flour)
• Detergents
• Dhokla and Thepla

Lijjat’s commitment to quality and tradition has made its products popular not just in India but in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia.

Awards and Recognition

Over the decades, Lijjat has been celebrated for its achievements and social impact. Here are a few milestones:

• Recognized as the Best Village Industry by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• Honored by President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam with the Brand Equity Award.
• Featured on National Geographic’s India’s Mega Kitchens, showcasing Lijjat as a powerhouse of women’s empowerment.
• Received the Businesswomen of the Year Award by The Economic Times.

Changing Lives, One Papad at a Time

Lijjat Papad is about more than just business. It’s about creating opportunities. Through scholarships for members’ children, community initiatives, and literacy programs, Lijjat has empowered thousands of women to dream big and achieve their goals.

What makes Lijjat truly special is its belief in self-reliance. The organization has never accepted donations or grants. Instead, its members contribute to causes, like building homes for earthquake victims and supporting flood relief efforts.

The Heart of Lijjat: Empowering Women

Lijjat’s story proves that small beginnings can lead to extraordinary success. From a handful of papads on a terrace to a global brand, Lijjat has shown what women can achieve when they unite.

Lakshmi, a long-time member, sums it up beautifully: “Lijjat gave me the strength to stand tall. It taught me that no dream is too big when you have support.”

A Legacy of Hope and Inspiration

Lijjat Papad is more than a crispy snack. It’s a legacy of hope, resilience, and empowerment. It’s a reminder that when women come together, they can change their lives—and the world.