When 70-year-old H Lakshamamma and her 85-year-old husband, Thippeswamy decided to start a spice business in 1979, little did the couple know that their idea would prove to be lucrative 40 years later. Lakshmamma who is uneducated while her husband had studied up to class II, decided their venture needed something more than just the run-of-the-mill dried spices that are available in the markets.
A venture that began with an initial capital of INR 20,000 from their small house in Chikkagondanahalli, has now have a booming business with the latest equipment, which is one of the biggest masala-making outposts in Central Karnataka, and have plans to expand operations. In a statement to The New Indian Express, T Nagaraj, Lakshmamma and Thippeswamy’s son, said, “Supporting women was our aim. Some of these women have been with us for three decades and have worked hard for the success of the business. It is because of them that the industry has survived.”
Nagaraj, has witnessed first-hand the struggles of many women to make ends meet, and that’s when he knew that they would make great employees. He also discovered that women have better work skills, and are detail-oriented, and is a great way to ensure less waste.
Mehrunissa, an employee from Maradihalli, has worked with the company for four years. She says, “After facing a lot of hardship, I decided to start working. I heard of this masala unit which gave jobs only to women, and joined. Now, I not only take care of my children’s education, but also my entire family. We are indebted to Nagaraj.”
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