Sunisha Naik
In an age where convenience often comes at the cost of the environment, 52-year-old Dhananjay Bhave, founder of Mangirish Manufacturers, chose a different path. While many entrepreneurs looked towards conventional disposable products, Bhave envisioned a business that would leave behind less waste and a greater impact.
Three years ago, he established Mangirish Manufacturers, a unit dedicated to producing eco-friendly plates and bowls from naturally fallen areca palm leaves. What began as a simple idea has today become a growing enterprise supplying sustainable tableware to spice plantations across Goa. He is now hoping to reach international markets as well.
Interestingly, Bhave's first business idea was to manufacture paper cups and plates. However, after studying the industry, he realised that paper plates are often coated with plastic and require trees to be cut for production. Moreover, paper disposables were already widely available in the market. Determined to create something that was both unique and environmentally responsible, he began to research alternatives.
He initially explored products made from sugarcane bagasse but soon realised that sugarcane was not available in sufficient quantities in Goa. His search eventually led him to Karnataka, where he learnt about manufacturing plates from areca palm leaves. Convinced that this was the right direction, he returned with knowledge, determination and a clear vision.
Like many entrepreneurs, Bhave's journey was not without challenges. One of his biggest hurdles was convincing customers that eco-friendly areca leaf plates could compete with cheaper paper and plastic alternatives. Many questioned whether such products had a future in today's market. Rather than giving up, Bhave personally marketed his products door-to-door, patiently building awareness and trust.
His breakthrough came when he started supplying his products to three spice plantations in Goa. This milestone not only provided a steady customer base but also validated his belief that quality and sustainability could create their own market.
Behind every plate lies a carefully maintained production process. Naturally fallen areca leaves are first soaked overnight to soften them before moulding. The softened leaves are then shaped using a multi-station semi-automatic hydraulic press machine, producing durable plates and bowls without the use of harmful chemicals.
(With inputs from: Rutuja Tambat, Saniya Vaigankar, Samata Rane and Bhavana Nayak)
