Jobaaj Stories
Anmol Mangharam, the passionate founder of Baked In BLR, a 100% gluten-free bakery in Bangalore, India, is on a mission to bring the joy of baked goods to those with dietary restrictions. In a podcast with Jobaaj Stories, she shared her entrepreneurial journey inspired by her family's legacy in India’s food industry and her own brother's gluten intolerance.
Anmol's story isn't as simple as it may seem. Her great-grandfather, Jamnadas Mangharam, played a key role in India's Swadeshi movement by introducing the country to biscuits through the legendary JB Mangharam & Sons. "My great-grandfather was actually approached by Mahatma Gandhi at the time to start and cater to the growing biscuit need in India," she reveals.
For 72 years, the family business thrived, but in a twist of fate, the factory shut down overnight just five days before Anmol was born. Despite this, she felt a deep connection to her family's legacy and a calling to continue her grandfather's work.
While initially pursuing mass media, Anmol realized her true passion lay elsewhere. At 18, she dropped out of college and embarked on a culinary adventure to Switzerland. Drawn to the artistry and scientific precision of baking, she specialized at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in London.
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Exposure to California's allergy-conscious food scene ignited a spark of purpose. Realizing the immense demand for 'free-from' foods, Anmol started envisioning how to bring this concept to India. The profound struggles her brother faced with gluten intolerance fueled this desire. Witnessing the lack of quality and accessibility for those with dietary restrictions stirred a deep determination within her.
After a series of international culinary experiences, including an internship amidst the allergy-aware community in the mountains of California, Anmol returned to India. It was here she witnessed firsthand the need for allergy-friendly foods, especially gluten-free options.
Anmol's brother, a gluten-intolerant individual, struggled to find palatable gluten-free bread. Moved by his plight and determined to help, she dove into research and development. After several trials, she created a simple but satisfying gluten-free bread. "Instead of telling me that I'm good for nothing, he actually told me this is the best loaf of gluten-free bread I've ever eaten in my life," Anmol recalls proudly.
This pivotal moment in July 2020 marked the birth of Baked In BLR. The initial menu featured 13 gluten-free items that quickly evolved to accommodate other dietary restrictions like dairy-free, vegan, and eggless. "We make everyday food for specialized diets,” Anmol emphasizes.
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Launching Baked In BLR during the COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges, particularly sourcing raw materials. Additionally, Anmol had to relocate her kitchen from her home to accommodate cross-contamination concerns. But with grit and resourcefulness, she overcomes these obstacles.
Anmol believes that in a niche market like gluten-free, creating awareness is essential and emphasizes the value of collaboration. "If more players come in, it helps me only," she states, recognizing the importance of educating consumers. Baked In BLR partners with labs and other industry players to reach customers when they are first diagnosed with allergies.
While word-of-mouth has been the bakery's primary marketing tool, Anmol remains focused on ensuring the safety and quality of her products. Everything in the Baked In BLR kitchen is certified gluten-free, and every product is tested. Employees undergo rigorous training on food safety and cross-contamination prevention.
Anmol's vision extends beyond her Bangalore-based kitchen. She aims to launch a new on-the-shelf brand to reach a wider audience and establish cloud kitchens across India. Her commitment lies in serving those with genuine dietary needs, ensuring they have access to delicious and safe food options. "Our purpose is to make customers happy," she affirms.
When asked for a word or sentence that resonates with her, Anmol simply states, "Purpose-driven." This sums up the heart of Baked In BLR, a brand built with passion and the desire to create joy for those who often feel excluded from the simple pleasures of food.
If you are in Bangalore and have dietary restrictions, be sure to try Baked In BLR. Or, if you're inspired by Anmol's story, support local businesses catering to specialized diets in your own community.
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