The fire engulfed Tirupati Ink factory in Panki industrial area, following which 15 fire tenders were pressed into service.
"It was a major fire that triggered several explosions when the drums inside the factory, containing highly inflammable solvents, burst one by one after coming in contact with the blaze," Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Kunwar Pal Singh told reporters in Kanpur, some 80 km from Lucknow.
"The situation is now under control," he said.
The fire occurred at around 4 a.m., officials said.
"When we reached the site, a few employees were present inside the factory. With the assistance of police, we managed to rescue all of them," said Singh.
Pigments used in paints and other chemicals were produced in the factory.
"We are yet to establish the exact cause behind the fire, but it appears the incident would have taken place due to an electric short circuit in the factory," said Singh.