Converting Adversity into An Advantage - Chiranjeev Restaurants and Foods

Set in January 2020, this case explores the journey of Praful Chandawarkar, the founder director of Chiranjeev Restaurants and Foods Private Limited, and his core team as they transform their business. After a successful career as an investment banker, Chandawarkar, and his wife, Cheeru, a highly talented chef, decided to pursue their passion and embark on the journey of entrepreneurship. In 1997, they established Malaka Spice, a restaurant specializing in Southeast Asian cuisine, in Pune. Over the course of a decade, they expanded rapidly across multiple cities in India. However, Chandawarkar confronted a personal tragedy when his wife succumbed to cancer. This loss made him take a step back to reflect and reevaluate his approach, crystallizing his personal belief that the primary purpose of an enterprise must be the well-being of people. He realized that he needed not only personal transformation as a leader but also a shift in his approach. Seeking the guidance of a leadership coach, he underwent a personal transformation and introduced new work practices to enhance both employee and organizational performance. He placed a strong emphasis on collective well-being and introduced business practices aimed at enhancing the well-being of all stakeholders, both within and outside the organization. The case presents the story of how Chandawarkar and his team changed their approach and work practices, which led to significant changes such as diversification of the group and accelerated growth. The case concludes with the challenge faced by the organization, especially within the context of the hospitality industry, as the threat of lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic looms large.

Learning Objectives