Bharat Gaurav Mr. Chaman Lal Bhalla - Entrepreneur
Mr. Chaman Lal Bhalla’s journey from a hopeful entrepreneur to a cornerstone of Paris’s culinary scene encapsulates a tale of resilience, familial dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Born in Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab — a region torn by the upheavals of the India-Pakistan partition — Chaman Lal Bhalla’s family fled to India, settling in New Delhi. Here, amidst the challenges of displacement, they faced financial constraints and a significant loss of social status. Yet, these early adversities forged a resilience in young Chaman Lal, fueling a determination to restore his family’s dignity and standing. From a young age, he balanced his academic pursuits with work, understanding that both education and practical experience were crucial to overcoming the hardships his family faced. He tirelessly juggled his studies with various jobs, contributing to the family income while still attending school. This period of his life was not just about academic learning but also about gaining real-world experience that instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility. These qualities would later become the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial ventures and successes.
In 1973, Mr. Bhalla arrived in Paris with dreams of expanding his textile and garment business from Delhi. Despite initial setbacks, including language barriers that hampered his efforts, he persisted. His breakthrough came in 1976 when he secured a substantial order for 15,000 shirts, setting a foundation for his future ventures in the French capital.
Mr. Bhalla’s entrepreneurial journey took a significant turn towards the culinary world when he, along with two colleagues, noticed the success of a local Indian restaurant. Inspired, they opened their own restaurant near Rue de Louvre, which quickly became a popular spot among Parisians and tourists alike. This experience sparked the idea that would grow into a family-run restaurant empire.
In 1982, the opening of Tandoori in Montparnasse marked the beginning of the Bhalla family’s prominent presence in Paris’s restaurant industry. Over the years, their portfolio expanded to include multiple establishments, such as the prestigious Ashiana in Neuilly-sur-Seine (1985) and another in Montparnasse (1987), renowned for their authentic Indian cuisine and warm, inviting ambiance.
His restaurants became cultural hubs, attracting celebrities and dignitaries from both France and India, including French politicians like Nicolas Sarkozy, Indian leaders such as L.K. Advani, French singer Patrick Bruel, and Indian cinema stars like Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta.
Despite the demanding nature of his business, Mr. Bhalla’s success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of his wife, Veena Rani Bhalla. While he built his empire abroad, Veena Rani managed their household in India, ensuring a nurturing environment for their children and maintaining the family’s well-being. Her support allowed him to focus wholeheartedly on his business, knowing his family was in good hands.
Furthermore, driven by a spirit of exploration, he opened an Italian restaurant, Au Soleil Italien, around 2005 in Porte de Champerret and continued to innovate with new locations like Ratn near the Champs-Elysées in 2006 and another Ashiana at Ternes in 2016. Today, they are being managed by the family; the children as well as the grandchildren.
Mr. Bhalla’s commitment to cultural advocacy extended beyond his restaurants. He was a founding member of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) in France, which played a vital role in promoting Indian cultural and social interests abroad. Through GOPIO, he facilitated numerous initiatives that enriched the cultural dialogue between the two nations.
Today, his legacy is a testament to the successful fusion of French and Indian identities. His life’s work highlights how cuisine can serve as a powerful medium for cultural expression and integration. His restaurants do more than serve food; they weave together the fabrics of two distinct cultures, creating a rich mosaic that celebrates the best of both Indian and French traditions.
As we reflect on Mr. Bhalla’s remarkable journey, we see a vivid illustration of how dedication, coupled with a passion for one’s heritage, can transcend boundaries and foster mutual appreciation and respect between diverse communities. His story is not just one of achieving personal success; it is about creating a lasting impact on the cultural landscapes of two countries, proving that food truly is a universal language that brings people together.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Jean Yves Ramassamy - Entrepreneur
In the vibrant tapestry of Guadeloupe’s community, Jean Yves Ramassamy stands out as a beacon of leadership, entrepreneurship, and social advocacy. With a multifaceted approach to community development, he garnered admiration and respect, making him a prominent figure in both the political landscape and the social fabric of the island.
Jean Yves is born on the Christmas Day of 1958 at Point-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, an overseas department of France which is also called the Caribbean butterfly because it looks like two islands connected by bridges. The mountainous west wing named as Basse Terre (Low Land) was created by La Soufrière, a still active volcano. The east wing of the butterfly, called Grande Terre (High Land), includes the largest city, Pointe-à-Pitre, and thanks to its white sand beaches, resorts, and cute seaside towns it is the more touristic part of Guadeloupe. Jean Yves has grown up within the rich cultural diversity of Guadeloupe and has always been passionate about preserving the heritage of the Indian diaspora. His journey is marked by a deep attachment to his ancestral culture and an ardent desire to serve his island with dedication and compassion.
As a Deputy Mayor of Capesterre Belle Eau for 25 years, Jean Yves Ramassamy has demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication to the well-being of Guadeloupe’s residents. He was also the Departmental Advisor of Guadeloupe. He was appointed by the regional academic delegation for the professional training and Business Advisor for school, for the years 2024 to 2027. He was also the 2nd Vice President and founding member of SYMEG (Mixed Syndicate Electricity of Guadeloupe) for 10 years. In general, his tenure in serving the affairs of his region has been characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and effective governance. Through strategic policy initiatives and collaborative decision-making, he has worked tirelessly to address the diverse needs of the community and to foster a culture of civic engagement. Thus, fostering inclusive growth, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Jean Yves Ramsamy’s impact goes far beyond his individual achievements and his roles in politics and business are perhaps best known for his unwavering commitment to social welfare, clean environment, and community empowerment. As a dedicated social worker, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of marginalized populations, promoting access to education and healthcare, and fostering social cohesion around a common vision of progress and solidarity. Thanks to his actions, he insisted for the gas prices to be decreased and made affordable to everybody. His inspiring leadership and selfless dedication have made him a true role model for present and future generations in Guadeloupe and beyond. During his career he met President of France, Jacques Chirac on several occasions.
In addition to his public service role, Jean Yves Ramassamy is also a trailblazer in the realm of entrepreneurship. As a seasoned business manager, he brings a wealth of experience and insight to his ventures, driving innovation and growth across various sectors of the economy. His entrepreneurial endeavors not only contribute to job creation and economic diversification but also exemplify his visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. His diverse fields of business are the environment, buildings and constructions and has also his transport company. He is registered at the Chamber of Commerce of Guadeloupe for more than 45 years and was gold medalist for good services rendered. He was also rewarded with the certificate of artisanal excellence in recognition of the merits for his works in the craft sector. He is the President of the Caribbean Cooperation Commission and leading the organization of the Paris Trade Fair 2024.
Jean Yves Ramassamy’s entrepreneurial pursuits are deeply rooted in a desire to empower individuals and communities through economic opportunity. From fostering small and medium-sized enterprises to supporting innovation hubs and startup ecosystems, he champions initiatives that enable aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed. By nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship, he seeks to unleash the full potential of Guadeloupe’s human capital and drive sustainable economic development.
The synergy between Jean Yves Ramassamy’s roles as Deputy Mayor and business manager epitomizes the convergence of governance and entrepreneurship in driving positive change. By bridging the worlds of governance and entrepreneurship, he pioneers a holistic approach to socio-economic development that is both innovative and inclusive. In recognition of his many contributions, Jean Yves Ramsamy has received many accolades and recognitions, but for him, the true legacy lies in the hearts and minds of the people he touched and inspired.
As Jean Yves Ramassamy continues to navigate the complex landscape of governance and entrepreneurship, his legacy of impact reverberates throughout Guadeloupe and beyond. Through visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and unwavering dedication, he inspires individuals to dream boldly, act decisively, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society. In the narrative of Jean Yves Ramassamy, we find a testament to the transformative power of leadership and the boundless potential of human endeavor.
To conclude, Jean Yves Ramassamy remains an exceptional man of the Indian diaspora from Guadeloupe, a great social worker, whose legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of light and hope for generations to come. His unwavering dedication to his community and his passion for preserving Indian culture make him a true living treasure of Guadeloupe.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Mohan Singh Chauhan - Businessman
Mohan Singh Chauhan’s journey from India to Italy, in the early ’90s, is a story of ambition and cultural fusion. Born in the simplicity of Taliya village in Uttarakhand, Mohan’s foundation in hard work and perseverance was instilled by his parents, Kunwar Singh Chauhan and Saraswati Chauhan. His humble upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for life’s essence and encouraged him to pursue a brighter future for his family.
Upon embarking on his educational path in New Delhi, Mohan’s passion for hospitality led him to IHM Pusa, where he received his degree in Hotel Management, laying the groundwork for his future. His leadership potential emerged when he was elected president of PGDAV College in 1988, highlighting his interest in governance.
In 1990, at the age of 22, Mohan began his career with the Italian car company, Fiat. Recognizing his potential and enthusiasm for growth, his boss, Mr. Ugo Lanfranchi, along with Mrs. Lanfranchi encouraged him to relocate to Italy with his wife, Neeru, and son, Ashish Chauhan. Empowered by their support and motivation, three years later, Mohan embarked on a journey marked by challenges and victories.
In 1997, along with Neeru, and co-founder and dear friend Adam Cleary, Mohan realized his entrepreneurial dream by establishing Rangoli restaurant, an Indian culinary gem in the heart of Milan. Rangoli was a collaborative effort fueled by the tireless dedication of Neeru as well as her three younger sisters, Jeevanti, Geeta, and Kamla — together with Mohan they built something truly special. Their relentless efforts and boundless love have been instrumental in shaping Rangoli’s success. A decade later, in 2000, Mohan embarked on further endeavors to pursue his diverse interests and passions. He continued his leadership journey by assuming the role of president at the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Italy Shaka, solidifying his position as a community leader. Simultaneously, in the same year, Mohan, alongside Mr. Cleary, co-founded India Trading S.r.l., a prominent Indian wholesale business in Italy.
Mohan’s long and incredible journey is supported and enriched by his wife, Neeru, and their two children. Neeru’s role in their shared success goes beyond just logistical support; she is Mohan’s emotional and spiritual backbone. She has stood by him through thick and thin, celebrating successes and overcoming obstacles with grace and resilience. Together, they have not only built businesses but also a family that deeply values its multicultural heritage.
To this day, Mohan continues to grow his expertise, as he recently opened a smaller and cozier Indian restaurant in Milan called Banaras; along with many other successful businesses in India and Italy spanning the past 20 years. As the businesses flourished, Mohan’s philanthropic spirit remained high. He has long supported the Sarthak Foundation, which promotes and supports underprivileged children in Kanpur, India. He has provided two children with educational support from childhood to adulthood, witnessing their success as contributing members of society fills Mohan with pride.
Mohan’s deep connection to his origins extends beyond his culinary ventures. He lovingly restored his childhood home in Taliya village in Uttarakhand into a lovely resort, nestled among the beautiful mountains. This endeavor is a testament to his commitment to his roots and his eagerness to give back to the community.
As Mohan navigates the ups and downs of life, he finds solace and strength in the unwavering support of his family and close friends, whose love and devotion serve as his guiding light. Grateful for the opportunities and love, Mohan approaches each new day with humility and resilience, and a commitment to give back to society as sincerely as possible.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Kevat Patel - Businessman
Kevat Patel was born on June 22, 1990, to late Ramanbhai and Nimuben Patel in the state of Alabama, USA, and currently lives in Frisco, TX USA, a growing suburb of Dallas TX. He has two older sisters, Dimple and late Mayuari. Although he is currently a successful entrepreneur, the journey to success did not come easily. Success can be defined in many ways, however, his fascinating unique story about his life and upbringing inspired him to be successful.
From the time Kevat was born, he has always been eager to explore and expand in learning and growing his knowledge in various subjects. Being surrounded with the environment of several types of family businesses from age 8 onwards, he has had the spirit to always have the growth mindset to become a successful entrepreneur. One specific example of many is during the latter part of middle school, a hurricane came and especially damaged the entire hotel Kevat, and his family were operating and residing. It was at this time where the family was at its lowest point financially and even sent Kevat counting quarters to have lunch at his school. The family had lost the business which provided them so much for 17+ years. At this time, Kevat and the family faced many challenges in finding other businesses, forcing the family to move 4 times in a 1 and year span, causing some disturbances in Kevat’s education as he attended 3 different high schools in a 14-month span. Finally, the family lived in Auburn, Alabama where he and his parents ran a convenience store and had bounced back and recouped a sizable portion of their losses. The city of Auburn was where Kevat completed his education.
From here, Kevat moved to Atlanta, Georgia and operated a gas station business. Unfortunately, the business did not perform as expected, facing many challenges with employees and stagnancy in growth and expansion. Growing up in these different traditional businesses, Kevat has been able to learn the necessary techniques to overcome challenges in day-to-day business operations and understand the difficulties of a business. From here, it was time for a different career path, and that’s when Kevat entered the financial industry.
Kevat assumed the financial industry in July 2015. He is a recipient of many financial awards after obtaining his education from Auburn University, Alabama USA. He is a true visionary, always dreaming big as a successful entrepreneur and paving the way for future generations as part of his legacy and by becoming a role model for many future entrepreneurs in the financial industry.
Kevat is a “Visionary” and focuses on excellence with thorough creativity, along with his work ethic full of passion, makes his wellbeing and leads a disciplined workforce under him. He obtains the incredible virtue of a positive attitude, never giving up mentality and caring nature to help his clients and team, not only for today, but also for many years ahead. He envisions a massive field force of financial educators in every state of US and Canada by having courage and exploring vibrant innovative ideas to continue to serve the community and educate them.
Kevat’s primary goal is to give back to the community and make it the most solid and united with thorough understanding of various aspects of financial literacy.
Kevat can easily be classified as an entrepreneur who cherishes challenges to make one stronger, and one who embraces change for future growth and one who always has a characteristic of upbeat hope. He nurtures a very united and healthy environment with all his colleagues, ensuring that the roots of his work are very solid and strong.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Amit Lath - Businessman, Poland
Amit Lath is a leading Indian face and entrepreneur residing in Poland for the last twenty-three years. An aspirational person and seasoned entrepreneur who grew from the ground up with a worldwide business presence in more than 30+ countries. His company ‘Sharda Group’ has achieved success in the European and Global markets and received several accolades and has been ranked No. 301 amongst the Top 500 in the list of FORBES Diamond 2012 and is also ranked No.1 for Imports in
Textile Sector from India and among Top 10 companies for trade between India-Poland by Poland Ministry of Economy.
Amit Lath has pioneered a number of initiatives to support the Indian Diaspora in Poland and the surrounding countries in Europe. During the height of the Covid pandemic, he transported 200+ Oxygen Concentrators to India and worked tirelessly with the Indian Embassy in Poland to support Diaspora. In collaboration with Rotary International, he was also engaged in the humanitarian activity, donating ambulances and dialysis machines to the state of Madhya Pradesh.
He was fully involved with the Government of India and the Embassy of India in Poland during #Operation Ganga to evacuate Indian students and citizens from Ukraine. Amit Lath was chosen to be part of the Indian contingent to virtually meet the Prime Minister of India Shri. Narendra Modi during his review of the support being provided to the Indians coming from Ukraine.
A well-known personality within the Indian community and the decision-makers and organizations in Poland, Amit Lath is widely respected for his network within the business fraternity in India, Europe, the United Kingdom, Middle East Africa, and ASEAN countries. Admired for his outstanding hospitality to Indians coming to Poland, Amit is highly respected for building a business relationship between the two countries in the capacity of Vice President of the Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce and Industry & Director for Central East Europe at the Europe-India Chamber of Commerce (EICC).
A fluent Polish speaker, he has led several delegations from Poland promoting India during the IT Conference India Soft and led a number of delegations to large Textile Industry meet: Textiles India 2017, Knit Tex, Source India Srtepc, RSBM Ind Texpo Texprocil, Yarn Tex, IIHF, Weaves Texvalley, Vastra FICCI, Atexcon Citi India, IGF AEPC, Indian International Silk Fair, RSBM Council for Leather Exports, Tex-Styles India, RBSM ICC.
He has assisted the Indian Embassy in Poland over decades and is also an advisor to India's International Movement to Unite Nations (I.I.M.U.N), one of the world's largest Youth-Run organizations. He assisted in the formation of the organization's Poland Chapter, with the aim of boosting collaboration between Indian and Polish students.
Amit led the promotion of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program in Poland and sought the nomination of 8 people from various government organizations in participating in this program in order to explore opportunities and strengthen the trade relationship between the two countries.
He has been at the forefront of bringing the Indian community together by celebrating the ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Diwali’ and creating a buzz by installing large LED display screens wishing and welcoming the Indian Community and joining hands with the Indian Embassy for celebrating the events. As an ardent flyer around the globe, Amit has been exposed to a wide range of traditions and cultures and has been invited to speak at prestigious national and international trade exhibitions, economic conferences, and business symposiums. A prominent figure in the European region for the development of business between nations, Amit is an active member and holds key positions in the following organizations:
∙ CEO & Managing Partner, Sharda Group of Companies
∙ Vice President, Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IPCCI)
∙ Director, Europe India Chamber of Commerce | Central-East Europe
∙ Advisor, India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (I.I.M.U.N)
∙ Co-founder, British International School of University of Lodz (BISUL)
∙ Director, Indo-British Trade Council (IBTC)
∙ Mentor, Youth Business Poland (YBP)
∙ Vice Chair Poland, Europe India Center for Business and Industry (EICBI)
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Naresh Agarwal - Businessman
Naresh Agarwal was born in a middle-class family of 5 brothers and sisters & grew up in the town of Jhalda in the district of Purulia West Bengal. Late Shri Chiranjee Lal Agarwal Mr Naresh Agarwal’s father ran a Govt scheme ration distribution shop, as fate would have it Mr Agarwal lost his father at the tender age of 16 and had to assume responsibilities of the family as an elder son, while looking after distribution business and completing his studies surviving through hardships always felt a sense of gratitude towards the place that he called home and its people who were always his pillar support during his time of need.
More than 30 years through eventful journeys learning from his hardships into affluent management experience with a very successful track record of founding and managing of manifold wings of Manufacturing Industries, Hospitality, Real Estate, Dredging, Horticulture, Cold Chain & Storage, Agri financing and more. As the son of the land of Purulia, the most backward district of West Bengal, started his journey of business by trading cement and construction material, though girt and gratitude he found success in his 1st manufacturing unit eventually becoming one of India’s largest Cement bag manufacturing unit employing more than 4000 people in the backward district of Purulia. Moving forward he set up his own cement manufacturing unit in the same district enabling the company to be the supplier of major railways and Nation Highways projects in the country. He developed 4-star Hotels, shopping malls, and various real estate projects under his companies.
Mr Agarwal having felt the need to showcase Purulia’s local tribal culture invested more than Rs 100 Crores in Ajodhya Hills of Purulia to develop an eco-resort “Kushal Palli” Today the resort employs more than 250 locals tribals and provides them with soft skill training and education. He has undertaken to ensure that the tribes of Ajodhya hills are not neglected anymore so many years after independence and hence developed a free checkup clinic on the hills, also donating critical medical equipment to the local medical center to ensure timely first aid and care for all sorts of ailments.
He has also under its wings undertaken to ensure primary education for all local children and also provides scholarships and training to those wishing to further study and grow in respective fields all to bring more prosperity and lifestyle development amongst the tribal people of Purulia.
Mr. Naresh Agarwal’s engagement with the local communities has helped him create a niche for himself as an entrepreneur that has enabled local development of a rural region in the country through various socio-economic measure that has not only allowed his company to grow into a financial powerhouse but also be a flagbearer for positive change and social development in a place like Purulia, West Bengal.
As a social activist, I extended as part of various Public offices (as Councilor, Jhalda Municipality), as well as of different Forums and Chamber of Indian Industries like Vice President, Federation of Small & Medium Scale Industries, Regional Member of CII Eastern Chapter, Executive Member of Indian Plastic Federation, Vice President, West Bengal Table Tennis Association, Purulia Unit and many more which give him more responsibilities to deliver more to the society.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Paul Ghotra - CEO of CIMtech Mfg Inc., Canada
Paul Ghotra, Founder & CEO of CIMtech Mfg Inc., has been making headlines for his remarkable contributions to the industry. With years of experience in manufacturing, Paul has established himself as a thought leader and influencer in the field. He has been recognized for his innovative ideas, exceptional leadership, and ability to drive growth and profitability for the organizations he works with. Paul's extensive knowledge and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the future of manufacturing, and his insights and strategies have helped numerous companies achieve unparalleled success.
In 1988, Paul moved to Vancouver, Canada, where he began working as a manufacturing engineer for one of the top high-tech firms in British Columbia, Canada. His involvement in a start-up company that expanded from 10 to 5000 employees over the course of 15 years enabled him to develop a profound grasp of how to optimize manufacturing cost reduction early in the design process. This experience has enhanced his passion for growing his own business and pushing through obstacles.
During his childhood, his father had a great desire to educate him to become a pioneer in the engineering field. His father passed away when he was a young boy. Since then, he made it his lifelong mission to pursue this profession to fulfill his father’s passion for engineering. Paul was trained in one of the top technical institutes in precision mechanics, instrumentation, and manufacturing engineering.
Paul, who by now had championed the use of renewable energy, hydrogen, and fuel cell stood up to the challenge and founded his global pioneering company in 2006 - CIMtech Mfg., a Canada-based Hydrogen fuel cell and electrolyzer manufacturer with supply chain and multi-plant facilities in North America and Asia. When Paul started CIMtech two decades ago he has been instrumental in guiding engineers in high-technology companies on DFM processes. The objective is to design economically. Because cost is driven by time, the design must minimize not only the time required to manufacture but also optimize development time to reduce time to market.
Paul's manufacturing expertise helped guide engineers in high-technology companies to optimize part design for manufacturing. Over his 30 years carrier, Paul has been part of many new development cycles assisting companies to develop innovative products cost-effectively.
Paul’s reputation has been drawing global attention throughout space. It has allowed him to become the recipient of several noteworthy awards and recognitions. The list of received awards for Paul is as follows-
- Indian Achievers Award 2022 for Business Leadership.
- Canada’s 10 Best Manufacturing Companies 2021.
- 30 Innovative Brands of the Year 2022.
- 10 Smartest Companies to Watch in 2022 (The Chief’s Digest), etc.
- The Most Admired Global Indians 2022 (Passion Vista)
“Countries around the world are setting net zero targets and accelerating the move towards clean energy alternatives in vehicles and equipment. We are proud to be supporting these targets and this expansion and investment in new, advanced equipment will allow us to continue being a key global supply chain player in this space,” says Paul Ghotra
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Rahul Puranik - Chairman Sawnee Group of Companies - USA
Rahul Puranik is the chairman of the Sawnee Group of companies, a global multinational company that specializes in seven core industries: Hospitality, Distillery, Beverage Retail, Real Estate Investments, Strategic Procurement for the United Nations, Aviation Cargo, and Healthcare Supplies Distribution. Sawnee Group is based in Atlanta with offices in France, Ireland, and Singapore.
Rahul grew up in a middle-class, educated joint family in Vile Parle in Mumbai. His grandparents had a heavy influence on his upbringing and values, which include family, integrity, modesty, ethics, and giving back to the community. In 1990, at the age of 18, Rahul went to the United States for his undergraduate studies with just enough money for his first year. While working several side jobs, Rahul graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. After completing his education and working as an electrical engineer, he studied to be a commercial pilot and got his certified commercial license on a multi-engine plane. Soon after, Rahul developed an interest in winemaking and the backend processes that go into it. After moving to Atlanta, Rahul joined the School of Horticulture in Buckhead, which allowed him to venture into foreign vineyards. He ended up investing in vineyards in Australia, which was very profitable and helped him kick off his entrepreneurship journey.
This venture led him into a new set of endeavors. With his newfound knowledge of the liquor industry, a few years of experience shadowing at liquor stores, and the strong support of his wife, Swapna, he started building beverage malls in South Georgia. He started with Lagrange Beverage. He built the store from scratch and developed a working business model for it based on the customers. A few years later, once the business had become a successful well-oiled machine, he sold it to build a new store. This process continued with his next couple of beverage outlets: Columbus Beverage and Global Beverage. He currently owns both locations of the Macon Beverage outlet, one of which is the largest liquor store in Georgia.
While pursuing the beverage business, Rahul also ventured into the hospitality industry in a similar way. He started by investing in a Hyatt Place, then followed through by building a Courtyard by Marriott, a Wingate by Wyndham in Ohio, and a Ramada Suites in Georgia. Along a similar timeline, Rahul also attempted to further his interest in the aviation industry by launching three startup airlines in Southeast Asia.
Through his experience over the years, Rahul has come to believe that failures should not be seen as discouragement, but rather opportunities to get back up and try again. Like many other entrepreneurs, Rahul’s business career has had its fair share of failed projects, but each one taught Rahul something new and showed him how to propel himself forward. 
Currently, Rahul’s main focus is his distilling company Maison D’ Puranique, which is based in Southern France. The first product, a liquor made from Indian Alphonso mangos (Jus D’ Manguier), was launched in 2012 and won the first prize at the Atlanta Battle of the Bottles in 2014. Since then, the company has started distilling more spirits, including Mangeaux (an Alphonso mango liqueur made from Cognac), Puranique Vodka, Sweet Croissant wines, and more. Puranique Vodka won the Best Vodka Award, the Best Spirit Award, and the Best in the Category (from France) Award at the London Spirit Competition in 2018. The newest and most successful launch was of the Puranique Cognac which launched in Spring 2022.
Aside from his business endeavors, Rahul has also been very involved in giving back both globally and on a community level. Rahul has been working with the United Nations peacekeeping forces with individuals from all over the world since 2015.
Furthermore, when the pandemic hit in 2020, Rahul channeled his efforts and resources to create a healthcare company, Sawnee Healthcare, to support the State of Georgia emergency services. Sawnee Healthcare efficiently imported hand sanitizers, medical kits, masks, and other personal protection equipment from foreign nations and distributed them to hospitals all over Georgia.
Johns Creek, Georgia has been Rahul and Swapna’s home for the past twenty years, where they have built a strong and supportive friend circle and raised two kids. For the past eight years, Rahul has been mentoring high school and college students from the community. So far, he has worked with over 150 students. Rahul advises them to follow their dreams and keep their goals in mind, as he has, rather than just doing what others do. Through this mentoring, Rahul hopes to continue to help the next generation channel their efforts to realize their aspirations.
Bharat Gaurav Mr. Sandip Sali - Businessman, London UK
Sandip Sali is a senior executive with vast experience in renewable energy and sustainable solutions; based in the UK. He has previously sold and managed major projects in Energy and utility sectors in the UK and Europe and is now the founder and MD of Ampergia Ltd., a sustainable energy solutions company.
Sandip was awarded the license to supply electricity and gas in England, Wales, and Scotland and has supplied these services close to 50,000 business customers. Sandip is always supported by his wife Trupta Sali in his projects in his capacity as a Director. 
After receiving his degree in Electrical Engineer Sandip worked with many energy and technology companies in India; has also supported energy companies in Australia, Europe, and the United States. Sandip has a passion for providing cleaner energy solutions to everyone. This is possible through his company based in the UK, leading an innovative and talented team of engineers and staff.
Sandip has spoken about the importance of sustainable energy solutions to meet the net zero target at various platforms. In 2018 he was interviewed on the radio in Milton Keynes, regarding clean and sustainable energy adoption and the future of energy. Through his work, he had opportunities to interact and convey his passion with many dignitaries, policy, and decision-makers in the UK that include the former UK Defence Secretary, former Chairman of the Tory party, Leader of the democratic party, former Police commissioner of the Bedfordshire, various mayors, and other leaders in the UK.
Sandip had opportunities to be a chief guest at various functions organized by the Indian diaspora in the UK like Bedford Asian Business Associations, Leicestershire Asian Business Association, and Rainbow Charity. He was also invited as a chief guest at various Indian Independence celebrations in the UK. Because of his roots being in India and as a proud overseas citizen of India, Sandip is on a mission to contribute to the UK-India trades in renewable technologies and renewable products. Sandip has installed the first smart EV Chargers in Pune, Maharashtra exporting UK technology to India and now planning to manufacture and import good quality renewable hardware like Solar Panels, Inverters, Energy Storage, and EV Chargers at competitive prices to the UK and Europe.
His company’s first smart (Make in India) EV Charger would arrive in the UK and Europe markets in July this year. Through his company, Sandip is helping thousands of customers in the UK in reducing their costs of energy and carbon footprint which is key to achieving the UK Govt net zero target. His vision is to expand his business internationally, and the registration process of the subsidiaries in the Australia and USA is already underway.
Bharat Gaurav Star Pacific Company - London, UK
Star Pacific UK Ltd is a British company engaged in the marketing and distribution of fast-moving consumer goods. Founded in 2010, it is based in the bustling business district of West London, close to Heathrow Airport. Since its inception, it has rapidly emerged as a key player in the FMCG export industry and prospered tremendously in the last few years through investment in infrastructure and personnel.
Working with meticulously picked suppliers and manufacturers, Star Pacific has established a high-quality coverage across the retail, discount, and wholesale market globally showcasing the best of Great Britain to the wider world.
Having recognition for supplying great merchandising at competitive prices, making it a favored provider for many top-tier brands such as Coca-Cola, Red Bull, Ferrero, Nestle, and P&G, to name a few. Star Pacific’s success is a testament to its dedication to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Their motto of “complete source and solutions” has set them apart enabling them to have staggering growth in the export market with highly effective market penetration.
In the year 2021, Star Pacific won the most coveted British business award, The Queen’s Award for Enterprise - International Trade for Outstanding Growth. Referred as the ‘Knighthood for Businesses’- Queen’s Award is known to be the highest official award, where the awardees are recommended by the Prime Minister. This award is an acknowledgment of the substantial growth over the years with staggering results and sustaining hundreds of British jobs with its export activities.
Star Pacific is also the proud recipient of the Asian Business Award – Fastest Growth Business of the Year 2021. As it has been from the beginning, Star Pacific’s purpose goes far beyond profit. They believe in having a positive impact on the communities they serve. Their aspiration of investing in humanity and the well-being of everyone they connect with is what truly makes them distinctive and special.
Star Pacific, is run by the dynamic trios as the joint CEOs. Gajraj Singh Rathore, Shyam Bajaj, and Satyam Ahuja. All share a common vision for driving the company’s growth and success by focusing on innovation, collaboration, and customer-centricity. The trios bring board-level support to the organization providing strategy, operational change, value engineering & organizational transformational solutions.
Gajraj Singh Rathore (Finance Director), - A fearless and assertive personality with bags of optimism. A visionary and highly analytical and detail-oriented individual who has been involved in the business since the very beginning, prioritizing the company’s financial growth, quality, and compliance.
Shyam Bajaj (Trading Director) – A charismatic and imaginative individual with a natural ability to spot opportunities. He thrives on connections and possesses a deep understanding of market trends as well as identifies opportunities for profitable trades. With excellent communication skills, he tends to build strong long-term relationships with suppliers and customers.
Satyam Ahuja (Operations Director) – A confident and pleasing professional who is motivated by a strong sense of right and wrong. A calm and self-motivated individual with strong analytical and management skills and one who has the ability to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to optimize performance for working in frontline roles and increasing business efficiency.