In a courageous leap of faith, Sonu Saini left behind a secure, decade-long career as a Deputy Manager at the State Bank of India to pursue her true passion — celebrating Indian culinary heritage. With a bold vision and an entrepreneurial spirit, she founded Little Indian Spice (LIS), a brand that not only delivers authentic, handcrafted regional pickles but also uplifts and empowers women across the diverse landscapes of India.
Preserving Heritage Through Flavor
Launched in August 2023 and based in Jaipur, Little Indian Spice was born out of Sonu’s heartfelt mission: to preserve and promote India’s rich culinary traditions for future generations. Drawing inspiration from recipes passed down through generations, LIS curates a diverse palette of authentic flavors from different states of India.
From Rajasthan’s fiery Teekhi Mirch Ka Achar (spicy green chili pickle) to Punjab’s beloved Aam Ka Achaar (mango pickle) and Gujarat’s iconic Methiya Keri (fenugreek-infused mango pickle), each jar encapsulates the distinctive flavors and cultural heritage of each region.
Through her brand, Sonu offers a delicious way for people to stay connected to their roots, especially those who have moved away from their hometowns but still long for a taste of home.
Empowering Women, One Pickle at a Time
Beyond creating mouthwatering pickles, Little Indian
Spice stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women in rural and semi-urban India.
Sonu has built a thriving network of homemakers across six states — Bihar, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh — transforming them into micro-entrepreneurs.
These women, many of whom had limited access to formal employment, now have a platform to showcase their skills, contribute to their household income, and gain newfound independence. Through traditional recipes and their incredible craftsmanship, these women play a vital role in keeping regional flavors alive while shaping a better future for themselves and their families.
Navigating Challenges and Achieving Growth
Sonu’s transition from the stability of a government job to the uncertainty of entrepreneurship was not without its hurdles. Skepticism from peers, logistical challenges, and the complexities of building a reliable supply chain across multiple states tested her resilience.
Yet, Sonu remained steadfast, driven by her unwavering belief in her vision and the transformative power of empowering women.
Her hard work has paid off — by the end of fiscal year 2024, Little Indian Spice had served over 2,500 happy customers, generating ₹15 lakh in revenue. With the momentum steadily building, Sonu aims to scale the business to ₹1.5 crore in the upcoming financial year, expanding her reach and impact even further.
A Vision for the Future
At its core, Little Indian Spice is more than just a business — it’s a movement to preserve traditions, empower communities, and celebrate India’s cultural diversity.
Every jar of pickle captures a tale of resilience, skilled craftsmanship, and the vibrant heritage of Indian culture. For customers, it’s not just about savoring a product; it’s about reconnecting with their heritage, reliving memories, and supporting a larger cause.
As LIS continues to bring the taste of home to doorsteps across India and beyond, Sonu’s dream of fostering a network of empowered women and celebrating India’s culinary heritage is coming true, one flavorful jar at a time.
The Spirit Behind the Spice
Sonu Saini’s remarkable journey stands as a testament to how courage, passion, and a strong bond with one’s heritage can pave the way for extraordinary success.
Her story reminds us that when dreams are fueled by purpose — and a dash of spice — they have the power to transform not just individual lives but entire communities.
Little Indian Spice is not merely a brand; it is a tribute to India’s timeless flavors, the spirit of entrepreneurship, and the incredible strength of women across the country.
