
In the bustling town of Modinagar, Uttar Pradesh, a refreshing beverage known as Jain Shikanji has been a household name since 1957. Founded by the late Shri Parmatma Sharan Jain and his wife, late Smt. Shakuntala Jain, this traditional lemonade has quenched the thirst of many travelers and locals alike. Today, the legacy is being carried forward by their great-grandson, Anubhav Jain, who has infused modern entrepreneurial spirit into this age-old family business.
Early Life and Background
Born into a family with a rich heritage in the beverage industry, Anubhav Jain was exposed to the nuances of the business from a young age. His upbringing in Modinagar, a town renowned for its traditional crafts and industries, instilled in him a deep appreciation for his family’s legacy. Despite the allure of modern career paths, Anubhav felt a compelling duty to uphold and expand the family tradition of serving authentic Shikanji.
The Evolution of Jain Shikanji
Recognizing the potential to reach a broader audience, Anubhav co-founded HBMB Foods Private Limited, aiming to modernize the brand while preserving its traditional essence. Under his leadership, Jain Shikanji expanded its presence beyond local kiosks to a wider market, introducing innovative products like instant Shikanji masala. This move not only catered to the evolving tastes of consumers but also honored the original recipe crafted by his great-grandparents.
Shark Tank India Experience
In a bid to scale operations and introduce Jain Shikanji to new markets, Anubhav appeared on Shark Tank India. He sought an investment of ₹40 lakhs in exchange for an 8% equity stake in HBMB Foods. After intense deliberations, he secured the investment from prominent sharks—Anupam Mittal, Aman Gupta, Vineeta Singh, and Ashneer Grover—in exchange for a 30% equity share. This partnership aimed to fund the opening of new kiosks in states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, as well as to explore packaging the beverage in metal cans for wider distribution.
Upholding Tradition Amidst Modernization
While embracing modern business strategies, Anubhav remains steadfast in preserving the authenticity of Jain Shikanji. The brand continues to use fresh lemons and a unique blend of spices, staying true to the original recipe that has delighted customers for over six decades. This commitment to quality and tradition has been pivotal in maintaining the brand’s esteemed reputation.
Future Endeavors
With the infusion of new capital and strategic partnerships, Anubhav Jain envisions a future where Jain Shikanji becomes a household name across India and beyond. Plans are underway to expand the franchise model, ensuring that the refreshing taste of Jain Shikanji is accessible to a wider audience. By blending tradition with innovation, Anubhav aims to honor his family’s legacy while adapting to contemporary market dynamics.