A group of women residing in Balod district has scripted an inspiring tale of financial independence through sheer hard work and culinary skill. Once confined to domestic chores and preparing meals exclusively for their families, these women have transformed into successful entrepreneurs. By commercializing traditional local recipes, they have established a thriving livelihood model that generates substantial income.
Reviving Traditional Recipes for Business
Thirteen women belonging to the Prachi Self Help Group have embraced Chhattisgarh's rich culinary heritage as their business foundation. Sohdra Chandrakar, an active member of the group, stated that they began producing traditional food items back in the year 2019. Today, the women craft an array of delicacies including small Badi, Channouri Badi, Rakhiya Badi, Adouri Badi, Ledga Badi, Phula Badi, along with Chakli, Arsa, Pidia, and Chithan Laddu, ensuring authentic regional flavors in every batch.
Unique Varieties and Steady Market Demand
The group takes meticulous care in preparing diverse types of items to cater to consumer preferences. Sohdra Chandrakar explained that they make Ponga Badi using yam stalks, Pumpkin Badi, and Channouri Badi using black gram dal. These indigenous products enjoy robust demand in the local marketplace, encouraging the artisans to continuously produce fresh batches to satisfy their growing customer base.
Premium Pricing for Specialty Items
The pricing of these homemade goods reflects their unique preparation methods and quality ingredients. In the market, Rakhiya Badi is retailed at 500 rupees per kilo, Channouri Badi at 400 rupees per kilo, and Ponga Badi commands a price of up to 1200 rupees per kilo. To maximize their reach, the women set up stalls at block-level exhibitions and community events, while also directly serving customers who visit or order from their homes.
Surpassing 8 Lakhs in Annual Turnover
What started in 2019 as a modest initiative has now blossomed into a powerful economic engine for these 13 women. Together, the group generates an annual revenue exceeding 8 lakh rupees. Once restricted to household responsibilities, these individuals now independently manage every facet of the enterprise, ranging from manufacturing the goods to overseeing their direct sale to consumers.
