How to Build with Purpose: A Roadmap

March 2, 2024
by Anisha Singh
A historic photo of Lijjat Papad’s origins and women hand-rolling papads, showcasing its purpose-driven legacy

A Snack-Sized Lesson in Meaningful Entrepreneurship

I love a plate of crispy Lijjat Papad, a dollop of cool dahi, and a generous swirl of green chutney. It's more than just a snack it's a testament to how to build with purpose, a story of entrepreneurship that goes far beyond the humble papad.

The Unexpected Origins of a Purpose-Driven Business

When seven ordinary women gathered with just 80 rupees and a dream, they weren't just starting a business. They were pioneering a blueprint for how to build with purpose that would inspire generations to come.

More Than Just a Snack: A Social Movement

These women weren't looking for traditional success. They were seeking something far more meaningful:

  • Financial independence
  • Flexible work opportunities
  • Building stronger communities
  • A chance to support their families

Decoding the Brand Purpose: Beyond Profit

The Core of Purposeful Business Building

How to build with purpose isn't about grand gestures. It's about:

  • Solving real community problems
  • Creating sustainable opportunities
  • Valuing human potential over monetary gain
  • Designing a business model that uplifts entire communities

Key Principles of Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship

  • Prioritize people over profits
  • Create inclusive economic opportunities
  • Build collective ownership
  • Provide sustainable income solutions
A Business Model That Defies Traditional Logic

In an era of technological disruption, Lijjat Papad proved that a purpose-driven business model from the 1960s could not only survive but thrive. Their approach to how to build with purpose became a masterclass in social entrepreneurship.

The Numbers That Tell a Purpose-Driven Story

Remarkable Achievements
  • Over 43,000 Lijjat Sisters across India
  • 81 branches, 27 divisions pan-India
  • Exports to USA, Australia, UK
  • One of India's largest papad manufacturers
  • Sold more than 5.5 billion papads
  • Generated over 1,600 crore in business

Breaking Down the Purpose-Driven Business Strategy

1. Collective Ownership Model

The Lijjat Sisters weren't employees. They were stakeholders. This innovative approach meant:

  • Daily wages
  • Bonuses in long-term assets like gold
  • Shared economic growth
  • Dignified work opportunities
2. Inclusive Hiring Practices

Their hiring wasn't about cost-cutting. It was about:

  • Enabling women
  • Providing work-from-home opportunities
  • Supporting entire families
  • Creating economic mobility

The Secret Sauce: Authentic Brand Purpose

How to build with purpose isn't just a strategy—it's a philosophy. Lijjat Papad demonstrated that true business success comes from:

  • Genuine community impact
  • Transparent operations
  • Shared economic growth
  • Respect for human potential
Lessons for Modern Entrepreneurs

If Lijjat Papad teaches us anything, it's that:

  • Purpose trumps profit
  • Community matters
  • Every business can be a force for good
  • Innovation isn't just about technology

My Personal Connection: More Than Just a Snack

Every time I enjoy my papad, dahi, and green chutney, I'm not just having a meal. I'm celebrating a remarkable story of how to build with purpose.

A Bite-Sized Inspiration

In a world of celebrated tech founders and disruptive startups, there are quiet revolutionaries like the Lijjat Sisters. They prove that true entrepreneurship is about lifting people, creating opportunities, and building something larger than ourselves.

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