Empowering Women Through Tradition: The Success of Lijjat Papad

The Lijjat Papad co-operative is a shining example of how a simple idea can empower women, leading to financial independence and community support.

On a chilly morning in Delhi, groups of women wrapped in vibrant saris gather outside an unassuming three-storey building, where an iconic social enterprise, Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad, continues to thrive. Founded in 1959 by seven housewives in Mumbai, this co-operative is known for producing papadums—a beloved Indian snack—and has grown to incorporate over 45,000 members across the nation with an impressive annual turnover of 16 billion rupees (approximately $186 million).

The cooperative model allows women to work primarily from home, creating a balanced lifestyle while earning an income. Simply referred to as Lijjat, it has become a vital force for women like Lakshmi, a 70-year-old manager who joined the enterprise after her husband's passing left her seeking work. "Lijjat is a temple for us. It helps us earn money and feed our families," she explains, having transformed her life through her involvement with the co-op.

Each day, Lijjat participants board a bus to collect pre-mixed dough prepared at the head office in Mumbai. They take this dough home to craft papadums, balancing these responsibilities with their family duties. The efficiency of these women has significantly improved over the years; what initially took Lakshmi four to five hours to complete has now been reduced to half an hour.

The co-operative’s success story begins in the 1950s when women confronted a patriarchal society that limited their opportunities. With a small loan from social worker Chhaganlal Karamshi Parekh, the women began selling their poppadums—initially struggling until local shops began to take an interest. Over the decades, the Lijjat brand evolved, garnering local and international demand for its products, including spices and detergents, bolstering its reputation.

A significant turning point came in 1966 when the women, urged by the Khadi Development and Village Industries Commission, decided to brand their products with a name that meant "taste" in Gujarati—Lijjat. This brand name would soon become synonymous with quality and authenticity.

The cooperative structure offers a unique approach, with every woman who joins becoming a co-owner, enabling them to partake in decision-making and shared profits. "We are like a co-operative and not a company; we all have equal rights," says Swati Paradkar, the current president, emphasizing the community-driven nature of the enterprise.

Generations of women have found financial independence through Lijjat, allowing them to support their families better. "Working here, I have found not just an income but respect," Lakshmi reflects, proud of how far she and her colleagues have come. Today, the co-operative not only reflects a triumphant entrepreneurial spirit but also stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of women uniting for a common cause.