I am a retired officer from BMC and a true Mumbaikar. The transition from being employed to unemployed was difficult at first. Initially there was a feeling of freedom followed by anxiety and boredom. I was not enjoying my retirement as I thought I would, so my son called me to US to spend some time with him. We travelled together to many other countries for vacation. During our trip to Europe I realized Idli Dosa sambhar had become international. Being a Maharashtrian I asked my son why is Misal Pav not global? To which he replied we can make it happen, let’s give it a try.

At first I thought my son was just kidding but as we returned back to India he delved to know more about the authentic dish, yes he was pretty serious about it. Having travelled different cities across Maharashtra we decided to infuse different ingredients and recipes into our venture. We did eventually start from home but every time we would go out, we observed the demand there was in the market for authentic misal. This gave us hope and confidence to start our own venture. It was daunting, as we had no experience in food and hospitality.

The launch of the first outlet was overwhelming and the response thereafter led to more outlets, 13 in all, across Mumbai.

It’s always said behind every successful man there is a woman, but in my case it’s a man behind mine, my son. I completely invested myself into the art of different recipes that would cater to all age groups. I start my day at 4 am and cook more than 800 plates of Misal for our different outlets. I have people who help me with chopping and other kitchen chores. But the secret masala is been put by me. My friends and family has always been supportive they keep saying, ‘Ghar baithney ki umar mein, tum business kar rahi ho’ and I tell them I am living my dream.

My son has been my greatest influencer when it comes to doing business and he has supported me completely. I started my venture at 67 so I feel it’s never too late to begin again dream again and my dream is to make Maharshtrian Missal Pav world famous!!

(Written by Raavya Sarda)