Bikaji Foods International Ltd announced the demise of its promoter, Chairman and Managing Director, Shiv Ratan Agarwal on Thursday, April 23. According to The Economic Times, the 74-year-old industrialist died in Chennai after complaining of uneasiness and being rushed to a private hospital. Agarwal was in Chennai to be with his wife who recently underwent surgery, with doctors having advised rest due to her heart bypass procedure. The company described Agarwal as a founder and entrepreneur who played a central role in building the company from its origins in Bikaner into a globally recognised packaged food enterprise. The company informed stock exchanges that Agarwal died on April 23, with the cause of death not disclosed in the regulatory filing.
With over five decades of experience in the ethnic snacks and sweets industry, Agarwal established a foundation focused on innovation, quality and consumer understanding. As reported by The Economic Times, his leadership approach included the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and expansion into global markets. What began as a small venture in 1993 grew into a major food brand, popular in India and abroad, particularly for Bikaneri bhujia. Under his guidance, Bikaji Foods expanded into one of India's leading fast-moving consumer goods companies with a diversified product portfolio and increasing international presence. The company has grown its presence across multiple product segments, including bhujia, namkeen, packaged sweets and ready-to-eat offerings, positioning itself among established players in the organised snacks space.
The company expressed its deepest condolences to Agarwal's family and loved ones, stating that his passing marks the loss of a pioneering industry leader. According to The Economic Times, Bikaji Foods International remains committed to carrying forward his vision and values as it continues its journey of growth and innovation. The company stated that it remains focused on ensuring business stability and long-term value creation during the transition. In line with regulatory requirements, Agarwal will cease to be part of the promoter and promoter group following his demise, as disclosed in the regulatory filing. His demise has been mourned by many, including former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who described it as an irreparable loss to the industry.
Agrawal was widely respected not only for his business acumen but also for his humility, resilience and unwavering commitment to excellence. As reported by The Economic Times, his entrepreneurial journey from building a venture from the ground up to leading a publicly listed organisation remains a source of inspiration across the industry. His contribution through the Bikaji brand brought global recognition to Bikaneri bhujia, with his demise being deeply saddening news for the noted industrialist. The company stated that his contribution shaped the company's growth trajectory and institutional development over the years, with his legacy continuing to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs in the packaged food sector. His journey began in 1986 when he founded Shivdeep Products, named after his son Deepak, and later changed the name to Bikaji in 1993, inspired by Bika Rao, the founder of the city of Bikaner.
