Making and earning their bread

Kori Rotti is one of the special recipes of Mangalore. The cuisine comprises of a thin pappad like crackling rotti made of dry rice flakes dipped in gravy of chicken. A middle class housewife Shahsikala from Jokatte in Mangalore has made her fortune with the help of ‘kori rottis.’

As a member of Sadhana Sthree Shakthi Group, she realised the need for diversity to become financially empowered. Instead of going for the preparation of normal spices like pickles, happala, sendige, she thought of preparing and supplying kori rotti to the customers. She has been preparing Kori rotti and supplying to her customers in the name of Sri Manjunatha kori rotti.

She started her small business six to seven years ago after obtaining loan from the Sthree Shakthi group, in which she is a member. She has shown the world that with grit and determination, one can succeed in any business of her/his choice.

“As we are supplying hygeinic product, no one suspected our product. People have trusted me throughout and helped me in building a loyal and regular customer base,” she says with a smile on her face.

Kori rotti has a number of customers who come from far away places including Bangalore.
Shashikala said: “I do not participate in fairs and exhibitions to sell my produce often.
As I get enough orders to supply, I find it difficlut to participate in exhibitions.
Occasionally, I participate in exhibitions organised by Women and Child Welfare department. In fact, I get orders for the rotti daily. The speciality of my kori rotti is very thin and crispy.” She has not only empowered herself, but has given employment to four persons in and around her area, who have been helping her in supplying rotti as per the demand.

“There has been good demand for the rottis throughout the year. I have not felt disappointed for selecting the profession at any point of my life. I am satisfied with myself with the sale of product.”