Business Remedies | Rajshree Upadhyaya | May 23,2025 | With a commitment to providing edible oils that preserve natural aroma, taste, and health benefits, Dr. Manoj Murarka launched the Kabira Handmade brand and created a benchmark among consumers. In 1998, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Dr. Manoj Murarka and his wife Nirmala Murarka founded Manishankar Oils Private Limited, a business rooted in purity and tradition. Believing in the nutritional value of cold-pressed oils, they chose to remain loyal to traditional extraction methods, avoiding any chemical processing or external heating. Their goal was to offer oils that retained their natural qualities without compromise.
After building a strong wholesale business and earning the trust of Indian households for several years, the Murarka family was ready to connect directly with health-conscious consumers. This led to the birth of Kabira Handmade, a brand aimed at making natural oils, flour, spices, and dairy products accessible in every Indian kitchen.
Valued at Rs. 20 crore on Shark Tank India
To expand their reach and validate their consumer-centric approach, they appeared on Shark Tank India Season 1, Episode 9. Seeking Rs. 1 crore for 5% equity, the brand was valued at Rs. 20 crore. The founders presented not only impressive numbers but also emotionally resonant packaging that honored Indian martyrs, catching the attention of shark Piyush Bansal.
Despite the brand’s authenticity, the financials told a more complex story. Though the parent company showed impressive growth, revenue rising from Rs. 42 crore in FY 2018-19 to Rs. 160 crore in FY 2020-21, the net profit margin was only 1%, which raised red flags. Concerns over low profitability led Namita Thapar and Ashneer Grover to opt out. Aman Gupta echoed similar concerns. Anupam Mittal showed interest and offered Rs. 25 lakh for 10% equity, with the rest as debt. However, Dr. Murarka declined, unwilling to dilute control or deviate from the company’s growth strategy. Ultimately, Kabira Handmade walked away without a deal.
Oils free of chemicals and rich in medicinal value
Failing to secure investment did not slow their momentum. If anything, the Shark Tank spotlight enhanced Kabira Handmade’s credibility and brand awareness. Dr. Murarka doubled down on his efforts-upholding traditional methods, ensuring quality control, and building trust through consistency. He continued to focus on wholesale operations under Manishankar Oils Pvt. Ltd. while gradually expanding his online presence via platforms like Amazon. Kabira Handmade’s product line, especially its cold-pressed mustard, peanut, and sesame oils, remains a favorite among health-conscious consumers who value authenticity. Each oil is double-filtered and packaged only after rigorous quality testing. The oils are available in various sizes to meet household and commercial needs. Not only are they chemical-free, but they are also believed to offer medicinal benefits.
Relevance of staying rooted in tradition
Kabira Handmade is more than just a food brand; it is a quiet yet powerful example of how staying true to one’s roots can remain relevant in today’s health-driven market. It’s a story of resilience, passion, and unwavering faith in traditional Indian wisdom, reflected in every drop of oil poured from their bottles into kitchens across the country.
Written & Edited By:
Rajshree Upadhyaya
