RPSC Syllabus cover: Ethics and human Values: Lessons from lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators. Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values. Cultural pride, Humility, Heritage brand building, GI product globalisation, Employment generation
Shiv Ratan Agarwal, popularly known as “Fanna Babu,” was a visionary entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in taking Bikaner’s traditional snack industry to the global stage. Born into the renowned Haldiram family, he was the grandson of Gangabishan “Haldiram” Agarwal, the legendary founder associated with the Haldiram brand. Fanna Babu passed away on 23 April 2026 at the age of 75 due to a heart attack while undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospital, Chennai. His demise marked the end of an era for India’s ethnic snacks industry, where he was widely respected for his business acumen, humility, and commitment to preserving traditional Indian flavors. His entrepreneurial journey began in 1986 with the establishment of Shivdeep Food Products, a co-partnership firm in Bikaner. In 1993, he launched the “Bikaji” brand, a name derived from Rao Bika, the founder of Bikaner, combined with the honorific suffix “Ji.” Under his leadership, Bikaji rapidly expanded beyond regional markets. In 1994, the company entered the international market by exporting its products to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking the beginning of its global presence. Over the years, Bikaji grew into one of India’s leading snack manufacturers, exporting products to more than 20 countries, including the United States and the UAE. In November 2022, Bikaji Foods International Ltd. achieved a major milestone by getting listed on Indian stock exchanges through a successful Initial Public Offering (IPO). Following Fanna Babu’s death in 2026, his son Deepak Agarwal assumed the role of Managing Director. Today, Bikaji Foods is recognized as India’s third-largest ethnic snacks company and the second-fastest-growing player in the organized snacks market. The company’s brand ambassador is Amitabh Bachchan, and its guiding vision, “Aslee Parampara” (True Tradition), reflects its commitment to authentic Indian tastes and heritage. Beyond business, Fanna Babu was celebrated as a great philanthropist and is often regarded as the modern-day “Bhamashah of Bikaner.” His family made significant contributions to healthcare, education, and social welfare. In 2010, the Haldiram Trust established the Haldiram Moolchand Government Cardiovascular Sciences and Research Center at PBM Hospital in Bikaner at a cost of approximately ₹20 crore. This contribution is considered one of the most significant philanthropic initiatives in the region since Maharaja Ganga Singh established the Prince Bijay Singh Memorial (PBM) Hospital in 1937. Fanna Babu also traveled extensively across the world to study and co-develop large-scale snack manufacturing technologies, becoming one of the pioneers in industrializing Bikaneri Bhujia production. Despite building a publicly listed FMCG empire, he remained known for his simple lifestyle, visionary outlook, and strong connection to his roots. His greatest legacy lies in putting “Made in Bikaner” on the global map and transforming a traditional local delicacy into an internationally recognized product. Through his entrepreneurial success and philanthropic efforts, Shiv Ratan Agarwal left an enduring impact on Rajasthan, Indian industry, and society.