A New Chapter Begins
In Ahmedabad, a remarkable woman named Prabhavati Bhagwati, now 98 years old, has rewritten the narrative of aging with her extraordinary entrepreneurial
spirit. At the age of 91, she embarked on a culinary adventure, establishing 'Nani's Nashta' in 2018. This home-based kitchen specializes in crafting traditional Gujarati snacks and beloved Mumbai street food. Prabhavati's journey into business began unexpectedly in 2017, sparked by a simple act of sharing her homemade Khandvi, a Gujarati delicacy. The overwhelmingly positive response and the offer to purchase her creation at a casual tea gathering planted the seed for what would become a thriving venture. This initiative is a testament to her enduring passion for cooking and her desire to connect with others through food, even after facing personal loss.
From Grief to Delight
Prabhavati Bhagwati's life, marked by 68 years of happy marriage to Praful Bhagwati, took a profound turn with his passing in 2017. The ensuing quiet in her home and kitchen, coupled with her grown children living elsewhere, left a void, especially for someone who expressed love and care through cooking. This feeling of emptiness, however, was temporarily bridged by a chance tasting of her signature Khandvi. The dish's success among friends, leading to requests for more and even offers of payment, was the catalyst. At 91, Prabhavati took a courageous leap into entrepreneurship, transforming her personal grief into a source of joy and fulfillment, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing one's passions and finding purpose.
Nani's Nashta Menu
At its heart, 'Nani's Nashta' is a vibrant celebration of Indian flavors, meticulously curated in Prabhavati Bhagwati's home kitchen. The menu harmoniously blends the rich, authentic tastes of Gujarat with the zesty, popular dishes of Mumbai's street food scene. Patrons can indulge in a variety of savory delights such as the crisp vada pav, tangy sev puri, fluffy dhokla, flavorful thepla, hearty bhakri, and the aromatic pav bhaji, among many other traditional treats. However, the undisputed star and the dish that ignited this entire enterprise is her renowned Khandvi. This celebrated establishment, which started as a humble endeavor, now proudly serves over 200 families, a significant achievement for a business run with such dedication and personal touch.
An Age-Defying Icon
Prabhavati Bhagwati, born in 1927, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that age is no barrier to achievement and reinvention. Prior to the establishment of 'Nani's Nashta,' she was primarily known within her family circle as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Today, she is celebrated as the dynamic founder of her own culinary brand, a title she earned at an age when many anticipate a slower pace of life. Her story transcends mere food; it embodies resilience, the pursuit of purpose after loss, and the powerful message that passion knows no age limit. 'Nani's Nashta' stands as a potent reminder for individuals of all generations, particularly grandparents, to discover new avenues for joy and fulfillment.
