Patna: Shravan Kumar Roy from Darbhanga has shown that with strong determination and a different way of thinking, even a local product like makhana can reach the world stage. He started his brand ‘Makhana Wala’ with just Rs 15,000 after leaving his Rs 8 lakh corporate job. Today, his brand sells makhana products across India and has reached customers in America.
Makhana, which comes from ponds in the Mithila region, is no longer just a traditional food. Shravan turned it into a healthy snack brand with items like Makhana Dosa, Makhana Cookies, and Makhana Kheer under his brand “MBA Makhanawala”. These unique products were also presented at global events like the G-20 conference. A Makhana Centre has even been opened at Darbhanga Airport to promote this superfood.
Shravan also tried something new by adding makhana flavours to popular dishes like dosa and dhokla, giving traditional foods a fresh twist. His innovative ideas helped spread the taste of Mithila’s makhana across India, while his startup gave direct and indirect jobs to more than 100 families.
Shravan’s journey was not easy. He failed the IIT entrance exam three times, which inspired him to start his own business. He faced struggles like family opposition, trouble getting bank loans, and the Covid lockdown. But he never gave up. His achievements have been recognised with awards like the MSME Honour Award 2021 and District Entrepreneurship Award 2022. Today, he is the first GI-authorised user of makhana, officially recognised by the Indian government for his contribution to this traditional crop.
