Tucked away at Devnarayan Chowk in Khandwa, a spot locals also call Jalebi Chowk, sits Om Namkeen Bhandar, a name that today stands for taste and trust in equal measure. What started as a modest little venture out of a home kitchen has grown into a successful family enterprise, and the reins are now firmly in the hands of the second generation.
The foundation of this story was laid around 45 years ago by Mangilal Sawle. In his early days he worked at a hotel, where his skill at making namkeen was unmatched. People loved the flavour of what his hands produced so much that he decided to build something of his own. He first began making sev, mixture and other savouries at home, and then opened his shop at Devnarayan Chowk. Powered by hard work, quality and taste, the business kept growing until the shop carved out its own distinct identity across the city.
The Sons Now Carry It Forward
Today the business is being taken ahead by Mangilal Sawle's two sons, Ravindra Sawle and Jitendra Sawle. Both brothers have been part of the work for many years and are carrying their father's craft to new heights with a fresh approach.
Jitendra Sawle explains that the namkeen here is prepared at home every other day, so customers always get something fresh and flavourful. Purity and quality are given special care, which is exactly why customers keep coming back again and again.
What You Can Find Here
Om Namkeen Bhandar offers several varieties, including poha lahsun sev, laung sev, Kashmiri sev, Kashmiri papdi, dal dane, masoor dal and gathiya. Among all of these, the sev and the mixture are the most popular with customers.
The most striking thing about the shop is that it now draws in second and third generation customers. The children and grandchildren of people whose own grandfathers and great-grandfathers once ate namkeen made by Mangilal Sawle are just as devoted to the same taste today.
He Chose His Own Work Over a Job
Jitendra Sawle says that instead of taking up a job, he chose to run and grow his father's business. He believes the satisfaction that comes from doing your own work simply cannot be found anywhere else.
The namkeen here sells for around 280 rupees a kilo, a price considered affordable given the quality. That is perhaps why there is almost always a crowd of customers at the shop.
Today Om Namkeen Bhandar is more than just a shop; it is a living example of hard work, tradition and trust. A journey that began with a father is now touching new heights each day in the hands of his sons. The story makes one thing clear: with honesty and hard work, even a small beginning can turn into a big business.
