MARGAO: Mahesh Naik Kaskar, a resident of Malbhat, Margao, has embarked on an incredible entrepreneurial journey inspired by his grandfather and father. Starting with wholesale watermelon sales, he expanded into the vegetable supply and spice trade before venturing into the hospitality industry. Today, he satisfies the hunger of many by offering delicious homemade meals from the comfort of his residence.
Mahesh, deeply rooted in his Goan heritage, believes that locals should reclaim their businesses instead of letting non-Goenkars dominate the market. He proudly shares his family’s entrepreneurial history, tracing its roots back across the Terekhol river in North Goa. In 1945, nearly 78 years ago, his grandfather settled in Margao and commenced a transportation business, delivering goods using bullock carts. His father, Babal Naik Kaskar, embarked on a journey to Hubli via a small boat from Goa. He began wholesaling lemons to Goa and expanded his operations to Margao, Panaji, Mapusa, and other locations. After several years in the lemon business, his father seized an opportunity in the watermelon trade, procuring substantial quantities from Casaulim, Nuvem, and other regions of Salcete. Subsequently, his father ventured into the hotel industry and opened Pushpa Hotel in Margao. Mahesh actively participated in this venture, immersing himself in the hospitality sector. In 1985, after completing his 10th grade, he pursued admission to 11th grade but deferred his enrollment. Instead, he began supplying vegetables and fruits to Zuari Agro Chemicals canteen in Zuarinagar, until 2002.
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Although the company’s canteen closed, Mahesh continued his vegetable supply business in Margao’s New Market, serving local hotels. In 2005, he expanded his business further by establishing a shop for selling chillies and spices, and around the same time, Mahesh, alongside his wife, began serving tea and snacks at their residence. Encouraged by the positive response, they took the plunge in 2015, and started providing homemade vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals.
The business thrived until the Covid-19 pandemic caused a temporary decline in orders. Despite the challenges, Mahesh remains dedicated to satisfying the hunger of his customers, finding joy in their gratitude.
