The iconic Parle-G biscuit has been a staple in Indian households for generations, evoking memories of childhood, school, and comforting tea-time rituals. The biscuit’s recognizable yellow-and-white packaging has become synonymous with nostalgia, but few people know the story behind the ‘G’ in Parle-G. Contrary to popular assumption, ‘G’ doesn’t stand for ‘Glucose’, but rather ‘Genius’, reflecting the innovation and ingenuity that went into creating the biscuit.
Parle Products, the company behind Parle-G, was established in 1929 by Mohanlal Dayal during British rule in India. During the Second World War, when food was scarce and rationed, Parle developed a biscuit that was affordable, energy-rich, and made from simple ingredients. The biscuit, originally branded as the ‘Genius Biscuit’, became a lifeline for many families, providing nourishment and sustenance during a difficult time.
Over the years, Parle-G has remained largely unchanged, with the same packaging, flavor, and iconic image of a little girl designed by artist Maganlal Dahiya. The biscuit’s accessibility and affordability have been key to its success, with Parle consistently pricing it to remain within reach of the average Indian consumer. In fact, Parle-G is still available for just Rs 5 in many parts of rural India, making it one of the most widely consumed biscuits in the country.
Parle’s legacy extends beyond biscuits, with the company launching popular soft drink brands like Thums Up, Limca, and Frooti in the 1980s. These brands gained massive popularity and eventually prompted Coca-Cola’s return to the Indian market. Today, Parle-G remains relevant due to its low cost, consistent taste, and emotional connection with consumers. The biscuit has become a symbol of homegrown comfort, evoking memories of childhood and nostalgia for generations of Indians.
According to a 2011 Nielsen report, Parle-G became the world’s largest-selling biscuit, a testament to its enduring popularity. The biscuit’s success can be attributed to its ability to transcend time and generations, remaining a staple in Indian households despite changing market trends and consumer preferences. As a result, Parle-G continues to be a beloved and iconic brand, synonymous with Indian culture and nostalgia.