In a somber announcement, Bikanervala Group shared the news of the passing of its esteemed chairman, Kedarnath Aggarwal, on Monday at the age of 86. Recognized as a key figure in India’s packaged snacks and sweets sector, Aggarwal leaves behind a formidable legacy characterized by resilience and determination.
Bikanervala, initiated by Kedarnath and his brother Satyanarayan Aggarwal as street vendors in Old Delhi during the 1950s, started with a modest sweet shop in Bikaner known as Bikaner Namkeen Bhandar. Undeterred by early challenges, the duo ventured into selling bhujia and rasgulla on the streets of Old Delhi. Overcoming obstacles, they eventually established a shop in Delhi’s Chandni Chowk, gradually expanding the business with perseverance and recipes from Bikaner.
The Bikanervala Group, under Kedarnath Aggarwal’s leadership, has flourished into a behemoth with a turnover of Rs. 1,300 crore. Boasting over 150 outlets in India and overseas, Bikanervala restaurants witness a staggering one crore footfalls in a month, a number that swells during festive seasons.
The legacy crafted by Kedarnath Aggarwal extends beyond the business realm. Fondly known as Kakaji by family and friends, his departure marks not only a loss to Bikanervala but also a void in the culinary landscape. Shyam Sunder Aggarwal, Managing Director of Bikanervala Group, expressed, “Kakaji’s departure is not just a loss to Bikanervala; it’s a void in the culinary landscape. His vision and leadership will forever guide our culinary journey.”
In a market where rivals like PepsiCo, ITC, Prataap Snacks, or Parle Products have attempted to challenge the dominance of Bikanervala, Haldiram’s, and Bikano, the trio remains resilient. The snacks industry, currently valued at Rs 1.5 lakh crore, sees only 55% as organized, making it an intensely competitive arena.
Despite offers from large corporate houses and private equity firms for stake buy-outs, the new generation of entrepreneurs within the Bikanervala family remains steadfast in preserving the company’s independence.
Kedarnath Aggarwal’s influence extends globally, with the group’s presence spanning across the US, New Zealand, Singapore, Nepal, and the Middle East. As Bikanervala mourns the loss of its visionary leader, the industry reflects on the enduring legacy of a man who transformed a humble beginning into a snacking empire.