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Dmetian Sanjiv Kakkar: From Marine Engineer to India's Largest Mushroom Producer

Writer's picture: Prateek KhannaPrateek Khanna

Updated: Aug 1, 2024

Introduction to Sanjiv Kakkar: A DMETian Pioneer

Clearly Dmetian Sanjiv Kakkar stands out as a remarkable figure. Sanjiv, A graduate of DMET, Class of 1974-1978, Roll Number 2094 has transitioned from a marine engineer to become the largest producer of mushrooms in India and much more.


His journey is not just a testament to his resilience and innovation but also an inspiration to many in the DMET community.


Harder you work, Luckier you get! (Sanjiv's Mantra!)

A Chance Encounter

I had the pleasure of interacting with Sanjiv Kakkar, a 1978 DMET graduate, over the past couple of months on few occasions. Our conversations began unexpectedly when the DMET Club team reached out to him regarding a boiler issue he had posted on one of the alumni whatsapp groups, which later became a case study featured on our platform.



At the time, I had no idea about the extent of his achievements; we were simply helping a fellow DMETian, embodying the spirit of our community that always looks out for one another.
 

The Himalaya Food Company


Sanjiv Kakkar's Inspiring Journey with Himalaya Foods

Sanjiv Kakkar is the Co-Founder and President of Himalaya Foods International, a company known for its wide range of all-natural frozen food products. Founded with his brother-in-law, Man Mohan Malik, Himalaya Foods has grown to become India's largest frozen food manufacturer and distributor.

Sanjiv's journey with Himalaya Foods has been marked by resilience and determination.


The company faced significant challenges, including a devastating fire that destroyed all its process plants (french fries, appetizers, dairy, canning, and a large warehouse) along with the factory in Gujarat. Only the mushroom growing plants were saved from the fire. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic posed further difficulties.

However, under Sanjiv's leadership, Himalaya Foods not only survived these setbacks but also thrived, turning the company around with innovative strategies and a never-give-up attitude



Building a Global Brand

Sanjiv Kakkar's expertise in international business has been instrumental in Himalaya Foods' success, particularly in the North American market. Since 1996, he has been the architect behind the company's marketing strategy in the U.S. and Canada, establishing strong relationships and building Himalaya into a global brand.


Commitment to Quality and Community

Himalaya Foods is committed to providing high-quality, all-natural products without the use of preservatives. Their range includes mushrooms, French fries, appetisers, sweets, and more. The company also prioritises responsible farming practices and has created employment for over 1,200 people directly and more through contract farming.


Clearly Sanjiv's story is a lesson in resilience, innovation, and community. His journey from marine engineer to a leading figure in India's food industry exemplifies the diverse paths DMETians can take and the impact they can have on their chosen fields.


"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts."



While we will be doing a detailed blog and podcast with Sanjiv Kakkar in the coming months, you can learn more about his journey and Himalaya Foods through the links provided below:



Stay tuned for more insights and inspiring stories about DMETians on Spotlight!

 

The Philosophy of Success at DMET Club

At DMET Club, we believe every DMETian is unique and successful in their own way. Success is not just about monetary achievements but also about being a good person and contributing positively to the community.


As someone who has been at the helm of a venture-funded startups for nearly a decade, I can confidently say that while money is a tool, it is not the ultimate measure of success. True success lies in the impact we make and the relationships we build.


I believe that between our past, the present and the future, there is one common factor: Relationship and Trust that has been the reason and the foundation of our growth (Dmetians, in all walks of life).


So for all young cadets reading this, Build trust, build relationships everything else are just minor details!


For all the Dmet Club members, I would like to emphasise that the the greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members! So let's be a great community!

 


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