Bhavana Srivastava, Founder of Neochef Foods (OPC) Pvt. Ltd., is a dynamic entrepreneur committed to offering healthy, authentic food products such as sattu, pickles, murabba, and aloo papad. A native of Varanasi and an alumna of Banaras Hindu University, Bhavana initially forged a successful career in the pharmaceutical sales industry, accumulating over 15 years of corporate experience. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to shift gears, and she established her venture in Ahmedabad, where she now thrives as a passionate and influential business leader.
Her accomplishments are exceptional. Bhavana has been honored with the prestigious IM Happiness Award, recognizing her philanthropic endeavors and significant social impact. On the global stage, she has represented Gujarat at the World Food Exhibition, showcasing the state’s rich culinary heritage. Moreover, her seven signature products have made it to the Rajya Sabha, further cementing her reputation. Her collaborations span across prominent sectors, including commercials with Magson Foods, TV appearances with Praveg, and pop-up events with renowned brands like the Adani Group. Additionally, she has earned a nomination for the Nari Ratna Award, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the food industry.
In an exclusive conversation with The Interview World, Bhavana delves into her diverse culinary offerings, shares the inspiration behind her sattu products, reveals exciting new product launches, and discusses her impactful social initiatives. Here are the key insights from her engaging conversation.
Q: How do your culinary products stand out in terms of quality and uniqueness compared to others in the market?
A: I create all my products in close collaboration with specially-abled individuals and women facing severe social and economic challenges. This inclusive approach not only harnesses their unique talents but also empowers them through meaningful employment and financial independence. Together, we craft a range of traditional items, such as sattu, pickles, murabba, and aloo papad, ensuring the highest standards of quality and authenticity in every product.
This initiative goes beyond business; it is a mission to promote inclusivity and uplift marginalized communities. By involving them directly in the production process, we help them build self-confidence, develop valuable skills, and challenge the stereotypes surrounding their potential. Our collaborative model demonstrates that, with the right opportunities, these individuals can thrive, making substantial contributions to both the economy and society. It stands as a powerful example of empowerment, where creating sustainable livelihoods leads to transformative change in their lives and the communities they belong to.
Q: What inspired you to focus on promoting sattu products, and what unique benefits do they offer to consumers?
A: My mission is to raise awareness and foster appreciation for Sattu, a traditional Indian superfood, across western India, with a focus on Gujarat. Despite its remarkable health benefits, many people in this region remain unaware of it. I am deeply committed to changing that. Sattu, made from roasted gram flour, is not only a nutritional powerhouse but also a versatile and affordable source of natural protein.
In today’s health-conscious world, there is an increasing demand for natural alternatives to processed protein supplements. This shift is especially urgent given recent studies that have exposed the shortcomings of many popular protein brands, which often fail to deliver the quality they promise.
Sattu emerges as an outstanding alternative—rich in essential nutrients, easy to digest, and accessible to all. Its versatility only enhances its appeal, as there are 16 distinct varieties, each catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing drink, in hearty parathas, or in nourishing porridges, Sattu offers something for everyone.
My goal is to encourage a dietary shift towards this nutrient-dense superfood, one that not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also supports sustainable eating practices. Through the promotion of Sattu, I aim to empower individuals to make informed, healthier food choices that benefit both their well-being and the environment.
Q: Can you share insights into the upcoming products you’re planning to launch and how they align with your brand’s vision?
A: I am excited to introduce my Sattu Drink tricycle—an innovative venture that will be the first of its kind in India. This initiative is deeply personal to me, as it merges my passion for promoting traditional, locally sourced products with my profound love for my city. By taking the nutritious benefits of Sattu—a cornerstone of our regional cuisine—directly to the streets, I aim to honor our rich culinary heritage while supporting local farmers and vendors.
My mission extends far beyond business. I seek to uplift my community by spreading health, joy, and a renewed sense of pride in our cultural roots. This project is my way of giving back to the city that has shaped me into who I am today.
Q: Could you elaborate on the social initiatives your organization is involved in and how they contribute to the community?
A: Beyond my passion for cooking, I am a cancer survivor on a mission to raise awareness and offer support to others facing similar challenges. My personal battle with cancer fueled my determination to make a difference. Since then, I have trained over 300 women in self-examination techniques and cancer prevention, collaborating with corporate partners to amplify these initiatives. Giving back is at the core of my food business, where a portion of the proceeds goes towards providing financial and emotional support to cancer patients.
Additionally, I advocate for women dealing with infertility. After becoming a mother at 38, I experienced firsthand the emotional and physical challenges of late pregnancies. This personal journey inspired me to offer counseling and support to women navigating infertility, helping them understand the significance of their biological clocks. Through my efforts, I aim to empower women with the knowledge and resources they need, fostering a community rooted in resilience, awareness, and hope.
