The Bisleri story is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance in building a successful business empire. Founded in 1965 by Ramesh Chauhan, Bisleri has become a household name in India, synonymous with packaged water. Chauhan, a visionary entrepreneur, introduced bottled mineral water to the Indian market at the age of 27, a concept that was virtually unheard of at the time. Under his leadership, the company expanded its offerings beyond bottled water, launching iconic beverage brands such as Thums Up, Gold Spot, Citra, Maaza, and Limca.
Ramesh Chauhan’s commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. In 1995, he pioneered PET recycling in India, which not only helps clean the environment but also generates income for rag pickers. The company’s initiative collects approximately 600 tonnes of PET annually. The Chauhan family’s dedication to the business has been instrumental in its success. Zainab Chauhan, Ramesh’s wife, played a crucial role in the company’s early days, laying the foundation for many of India’s beloved brands. She was one of the first female businesswomen to enter the market and build relationships with franchisees.
Today, Jayanti Chauhan, the daughter of Ramesh and Zainab, is at the helm of Bisleri. With her global exposure and diverse background in fashion, styling, and photography, she has brought a fresh perspective to the brand. Jayanti joined Bisleri at the age of 24 and has since streamlined operations, introduced automation, and strengthened the brand. She oversees sales and marketing, product development, and advertising strategies, ensuring the company’s continued success. Under her leadership, Bisleri continues to innovate and expand, with a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction.
In 2022, Ramesh Chauhan had agreed to sell Bisleri to the Tata Group for an estimated Rs 7,000 crore. However, Jayanti decided to retain ownership of the brand, choosing to keep it in the family. This decision reflects the Chauhan family’s emotional attachment to the business and their commitment to preserving its legacy. With a current valuation of Rs 7,000 crore, Bisleri is one of the largest packaged water companies in India, and its dominance in the market is a testament to the Chauhan family’s hard work and dedication. As Jayanti Chauhan looks to the future, she is focused on continuing to innovate and expand the business, while remaining true to the company’s core values of sustainability and customer satisfaction.