NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Jan 18(NVI): Maqbool Hussain, from Sonwar in Srinagar, has made a name for himself as Kashmir’s “Nadru King,” transforming the local lotus stem into a global delicacy.
Exporting more than 32 quintals each month, Hussain’s premium-quality Nadru is now in high demand not just across major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, but also in international markets such as Dubai and Germany.
Hussain’s journey began with a deep connection to his family’s long-standing involvement in the Nadru trade, which was started by his grandfather. However, it was Maqbool’s innovation and entrepreneurial drive that elevated the business. In 2019, he began by testing the market with a modest supply of lotus stems. His breakthrough came when he met a group of Kashmiri Pandit brothers in Delhi, whose encouragement helped him gain confidence. By 2020, demand for his product had exploded, making him the only Kashmiri exporter of Nadru to both India and international destinations.
A pivotal moment in his rise came when Hussain served a cooked Nadru dish to Union Minister Anurag Thakur during a meeting. The minister was so impressed with the dish that he introduced it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his “Mann Ki Baat” address, Modi praised Hussain’s efforts, which significantly raised the profile of his brand.
Hussain’s attention to detail and commitment to preserving quality set him apart. He carefully selects the finest Nadru and uses a unique method of packaging—sealing the lotus stem in airtight bags filled with water to keep it fresh for up to ten days. This ensures that his product can be shipped over long distances without losing its quality. In international markets like Dubai and Germany, a pack of his Nadru can be sold for as much as Rs 1,000, while in Indian cities, the price ranges between Rs 400 and Rs 700.
Maqbool Hussain’s success story blends tradition with innovation and hard work with dedication. Today, he stands as a proud representative of Kashmiri cuisine on the global stage, bringing the distinctive flavors of Kashmir’s lotus stem to the world, one export at a time. (News Vibes of India)
