A CHOCOLATE WHICH VANISHED
A Chocolate Which Vanished
In the early 1950’s toffees of the sugar boiled type
only was generally available in the market, and all of us were happy with them.
Imported Chocolate bars were also there, but only in the upper end of the
market.
Those who were in the school going age in that period
may remember a happy happening of the time. It was a delicious chocolate bar which
became available in the market.
An Indian Company - Sathe Biscuit & Chocolate
launched these chocolate bars. They started
business in 1949 and their chocolate bar and Drinking chocolate powder (for
mixing in milk) was in the market in a couple of years. They can rightly be
called the pioneers of chocolate business in India. Their several varieties of
chocolate bar in the 1950’s were available for only Rs 1.00 to Rs 3.00. Their
demand and production must have been good as they were available in general
stores even in small towns of India.
General merchants at the time sold confectionery,
stationery, gift items, toiletries, hosiery and a lot more. Pansari sold only
grains, masale, edible oil and the like.
It was in the late 1970’s or so that Pansaries saw a business opportunity and started
keeping most of the items of the general store such as toiletries etc, as a one stop shop for customers, thus wiping out
general merchants.
Cadbury started importing chocolates from Britain at
the time and could start production in India much later in the 1960’s, Upon Cadbury
entering the Indian market, Sathe sadly suffered setbacks and gradually
vanished from the market.

Nestle entered the Indian market much later in 1990.
Sathe Biscuit & Chocolate Company is now 80 years
old. It still exists from where it started in Pune, but with limited
production, accumulated losses and infighting to gain control of the company
and its 30 acres of land.
The now generation may not even have heard the name,
but for the 1940’s to 1950’s generation it is fondly remembered.
Yes, I remember. Eating Sathe chocolate was an "ummmm" feeling at that time. So many types of chocolates are available now in the market...but in our times Sathe was the most tasty chocolate.
ReplyDeleteYes, Sathe was available in Gorakhpur in 1950's, and it was so Yummy.
DeleteYes, I twice visited the Factory when I was in School. I still remember the chocolate piece was given to me . If the Products are available would like to buy and taste again .
ReplyDeleteGood to know you had the opportunity to visit the factory. I believe it is available in Pune only.
DeleteIt’s really great information for becoming a better Blogger. Keep sharing, Thanks. For more details to visit chocolate manufacturers in nagpur
ReplyDeleteThanks Sir. Please keep visiting my Blog.
DeleteThere son was in our school and with me in NCC . I have visited many times there factory.
ReplyDeleteI wish to taste this chocolate!
ReplyDelete