Lala Kedarnath Aggarwal, the visionary entrepreneur behind the popular sweets and snacks brand Bikanervala, breathed his last on Monday at the age of 86. Fondly known as Kakaji, Aggarwal began his journey by selling bhujia and rasgullas in buckets on the streets of old Delhi before establishing the renowned brand.
The passing of Kakaji is described as the “end of an era that has enriched palates and touched countless lives,” according to a statement from Bikanervala. The company, with a presence in over 60 outlets in India and countries like the USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Nepal, and the UAE, expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
Shyam Sunder Aggarwal, the Managing Director of Bikanervala, remarked, “Kakaji’s departure is not just a loss to Bikanervala; it’s a void in the culinary landscape. His vision and leadership will forever guide our culinary journey.”
Kedarnath Aggarwal initiated his entrepreneurial venture in Delhi, coming from a family in Bikaner that owned a sweet shop since 1905. Originally named Bikaner Namkeen Bhandar, the shop sold a limited range of sweets and snacks.
In the early ’50s, Aggarwal, along with his brother Satyanarayan Aggarwal, moved to Delhi, bringing the family’s recipes with them. Initially facing challenges, the brothers sold bhujia and rasgulla in the streets of old Delhi, gradually gaining recognition for the unique taste of Bikaner.
The Aggarwal brothers’ hard work led to the establishment of a shop in Delhi’s Chandini Chowk, where they used traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Bikaner Namkeen Bhandar transformed into Bikanervala, renowned for delicacies like Moong Dal Halwa, Bikaneri Bhujia, and Kaju Katli.
Radhey Mohan Aggarwal, Director of Bikanervala Group and eldest son of Kakaji, expressed, “As we bid farewell to a legend, we carry forward his legacy with a deep sense of responsibility. Bikanervala will continue to be a reflection of his values – a place where every dish tells a story, and every customer is part of our extended family.”
