“How This Visionary Transformed a Rs 100 Crore Tea Brand into a Rs 2,000 Crore Powerhouse”

Parag Desai was born into a family deeply entrenched in the tea business. His lineage traces back to the founding of Wagh Bakri in 1892 by Narandas Desai. Growing up, he was surrounded by the nuances of tea production, cultivation, and the intricacies of running a business. This environment cultivated his passion for tea, which would later become a defining aspect of his professional identity.

Parag Desai pursued higher education to equip himself with the necessary skills to lead the family business. He obtained an MBA from Long Island University in New York, where he honed his understanding of business management and marketing strategies.

Parag joined Wagh Bakri in 1995 when the company was facing significant challenges. At that time, its revenue was less than ₹100 crore. Under his leadership, the company’s fortunes changed dramatically, showcasing his exceptional management skills. Through strategic marketing and expansion efforts, he propelled the company’s revenue to over ₹1,500 crore, marking a substantial increase.

Parag took charge of various departments, including sales, marketing, and exports, ensuring that Wagh Bakri not only thrived domestically but also gained a foothold in international markets.

Parag Desai’s leadership style was characterized by a blend of innovation and tradition. He recognized the importance of modernizing business practices while respecting the brand’s heritage.

The impact of Parag Desai on Wagh Bakri and the tea industry is profound. His vision and dedication have left an indelible mark that will continue to influence future generations.

Parag Desai, tragically passed away on 22nd Oct 2023 after suffering a brain haemorrhage. Desai fell while trying to protect himself from a group of aggressive street dogs during his morning walk. He played a crucial role in the growth of the Wagh Bakri Tea Group, leading its sales, marketing, and exports division.

Today, Wagh Bakri stands as one of India’s leading packaged tea companies, a testament to Parag Desai’s leadership and vision. The company operates across 24 Indian states and boasts a turnover exceeding ₹2,000 crore