MBA Graduate Leaves Corporate Career to Launch Healthy Food Brand, Earns ₹4.5 Crore
Adithi Millet, a renowned healthy food brand co-founded in 2017 by Somashekar Pogula and Mohan Kadimpalli from Andhra Pradesh, has gained widespread recognition across India for its nutritious products.
Somashekar Pogula – Co-Founder, Adithi Millet
Somashekar Pogula’s life took a dramatic turn during his father’s battle with kidney failure. This experience made him realize the crucial role of diet and lifestyle in health. Motivated by a desire to help others avoid similar struggles, Somashekar transitioned from a successful corporate career to the millet fields.
During his father’s treatment, Somashekar noticed that many patients suffered from kidney failure and diabetes, often due to the consumption of polished rice and processed foods. “Doctors identified that these foods, which cause spikes in blood sugar levels, are significant contributors to kidney failure and diabetes,” Somashekar shared in an exclusive interview with Startup Pedia.
Inspired by the healthier millets once consumed by previous generations, Somashekar left his corporate job and, with a modest investment and support from childhood friend Mohan Kadimpalli, co-founded Adithi Millets. The name, meaning “mother of the sun,” reflects the ancient and life-sustaining properties of these grains.
Adithi Millet: A Vision for Health
Starting with Foxtail Millet in 2017, Adithi Millets has since expanded its product range to include Kodo millet, Little millet, Barnyard millet, Browntop millet, Proso Millet Rice, Ragi, Jowar, and Bajra. In 2020, responding to increasing demand, the brand introduced breakfast cereals and ready-to-eat mixes such as Millet Upma Rava, Millet Idli Rava, and Millet Dosa Mix.
“Today, Adithi Millets offers 48 product categories, from breakfast to dinner, with combo packs that include millet rotis and phulkas,” says Somashekar Pogula, founder and CEO.
The brand prides itself on affordability, with its unpolished millets priced competitively—just 15% more than commercially available unpolished rice, and 25-30% more than polished rice alternatives.
Adithi Millets’ “farm to plate” philosophy ensures that their 100% unpolished millet rice is free from impurities. By using a “reprocessing method” that combines traditional cleaning with modern processing, they preserve the nutritional value of the grains.
Growth and Impact
Adithi Millets began with a small investment of ₹3-4 lakh and a bicycle for distribution. Somashekar initially sold foxtail millet rice directly to street vendors, who recognized the value of this ancient grain. Today, the company collaborates with over 200 farmers in the Rayalaseema region and supports organic farming practices.
From humble beginnings, Adithi Millets has grown into a company with a team of 28 and a network of over 208 farmers. They now supply products to over 300 retail stores, 58 bulk buyers, and major corporations.
Manufacturing and Operations
Adithi Millets sources 90% of its raw materials from Andhra Pradesh’s Rayalaseema region and has expanded partnerships with growers in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Their Kurnool facility boasts a daily production capacity of 8 tons, meeting the growing demand for nutritious millet products.
Revenue and Social Responsibility
The brand has seen significant growth, with revenue rising from ₹1.5 crore pre-pandemic to ₹2.5 crore during the pandemic, and reaching ₹4.5 crore in 2023-24. A portion of the revenue supports the families of farmers who have faced hardship.
“Financial growth is essential, but our primary focus is on promoting healthier food options. The revenue reflects our growing customer base across India,” concludes Somashekar Pogula.
FAQ
- What is Adithi Millets?
Adithi Millets is a healthy food brand offering a wide range of millet products, including various types of millets and ready-to-eat mixes, with a total of 48 product categories. - Who is the founder of Adithi Millets?
The founder of Adithi Millets is Somashekar Pogula. - What has been Adithi Millets’ revenue?
Pre-pandemic revenue was ₹1.5 crore. During the pandemic, it increased to ₹2.5 crore, reaching ₹4.5 crore in 2023-24. - Where can I order Adithi Millet products?
Adithi Millet products are available on Amazon and Flipkart. For orders, you can contact the brand at 7386874239 or 9618515161.