Rooted in the cultural heritage of Uttarakhand, India, The Big Bhaang Theory pioneers a venture inspired by the traditional use of locally grown hemp. They aim to revive and celebrate the holistic benefits of hemp in modern lifestyles. Crafting products from hemp seeds to skincare oils, sourced ethically from the Himalayas, they preserve ancient wisdom through age-old methods.
With a mission to make healthy living accessible without compromising convenience, The Big Bhaang Theory seeks to ignite a widespread passion for hemp-based holistic health. Empowering Himalayan women, their primary workforce, with employment opportunities and economic freedom, they not only offer high-quality products but also drive social impact and sustainability. This commitment contributes to a healing era, harnessing hemp’s potential for positive environmental and societal change.
In an exclusive dialogue with The Interview World, Himanshu Kakerwal, CEO and Co-founder of The Big Bhaang Theory, sheds light on his inspiration to manufacture vegan products from hemp seeds and their health benefits. He accents the positive market response his venture has received, providing key insights from his interview.
Q: How did you come to develop products utilizing hemp seeds as a primary ingredient?
A: Allow me to provide some insight into my background. Originating from Uttarakhand, a state steeped in the traditional use of hemp seeds, my upbringing was enriched with its culinary heritage. From my earliest memories, I’ve relished bhaang chutney crafted from these very seeds, alongside enjoying hemp seed salt.
In our household, my grandmother diligently ground these seeds on a traditional stone grinder, presenting them to us as a culinary delight. When sharing this with friends, we’d proudly proclaim our consumption of bhaang ki chutney, often met with quizzical inquiries about its supposed intoxicating effects. Contrary to expectations, however, we experienced no such sensations.
As we matured, our understanding expanded to encompass the remarkable health benefits and nutritional value of hemp seeds. We also notice their widespread adoption in the global market, particularly in regions like the USA, Canada, and Europe.
Recognizing the potential to introduce hemp seeds into mainstream diets, we embarked on a journey to establish our brand, The Big Bhaang Theory. Through our range of products derived from hemp seeds, we aim to empower our customers to incorporate this nutritious ingredient into their daily culinary repertoire.
Q: How many products do you offer, and could you elaborate on the health benefits they provide?
A: Currently, we offer approximately 15 distinct SKUs. The health benefits of hemp seeds are profound. With a nutritional profile boasting 40% protein content, surpassing even that of eggs, hemp seeds emerge as an exceptional protein source. Additionally, they abound in essential fatty acids, notably alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a crucial omega-3. Often, diets skew towards excessive omega-6 consumption and inadequate omega-3 intake. However, integrating hemp seeds into one’s diet may foster equilibrium, thereby mitigating the risk of heart disease.
Fiber, integral for digestion and gut health, facilitates the breakdown of consumed substances, benefitting the heart, brain, and gastrointestinal system alike. Lowering cholesterol levels is a pivotal role of fiber, promoting cardiovascular well-being. Hemp seeds, rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, alongside the amino acid arginine, further support heart health.
Our aspiration is for all individuals to maintain a balanced, nourishing diet, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of society.
Q: How diverse is the response you’re receiving beyond your home state?
A: Our audience, being highly niche, seeks vegan or vegetarian alternatives for protein, as well as healthy and artisanal products. We’re meeting these demands and witnessing a positive reception.
Their repeated purchases underscore the exceptional nutritional value we offer. Additionally, our distribution channels span online sales, retail stores, and B2B operations, reflecting our comprehensive approach as manufacturers.
Q: How do you address the concerns of individuals who view hemp as an inedible commodity?
A: Our brand, The Big Bhaang Theory, utilizes hemp seeds to craft our products. There’s a common misconception that hemp seed and Bhaang are distinct entities. However, it’s crucial to clarify that hemp and Bhaang are essentially synonymous. Hemp seed lacks any intoxicating effects; instead, it boasts numerous nutritional and health benefits.
We encourage our audience to embrace indigenous alternatives, particularly those offering extensive health advantages. Therefore, we urge you to explore our range of products. Sourced from local artisans and empowered women from Uttarakhand, our offerings align with the ethos of ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make in Uttarakhand’.
These artisanal products are designed for daily use, ensuring you can incorporate them seamlessly into your routine. So, why not experience the benefits firsthand? Give our products a try and witness the difference they can make in your life.
Q: Why are hemp seeds considered consumable while hemp leaves are not?
A: Indeed, there’s a similarity in that regard. The hemp plant comprises five primary elements: leaf, seed, stem, bud, and flower. Among these, the leaf, bud, and flower contain Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for intoxication, while the seed and stem are devoid of THC entirely.
Speaking of the seed, let’s delve into its nutritional profile. Utilizing products derived from hemp seeds offers a myriad of health benefits. These include promoting healthy digestion, enhancing heart health, reducing inflammation, improving skin health, alleviating menopause symptoms, and bolstering brain health.
