Looking for a post workout snack or something to spice up your food? Look no further than Bandar Foods! From squeezable chutney to naan chips to Bombay Ketchup, Bandar Foods is sure to put a modern spin on Indian classics. Check out our interview with co-founder, Lalit Kalani, and try some Bandar snacks for yourself!
Q: When did you first know you wanted to start Bandar Foods and what was the point that really made you go for it?
A: My partner, Dan Garblik, and I came up with the idea for Bandar while we were in grad school in 2011. We wanted to create the first food brand that took all the authentic flavors of my youth, but was able to incorporate them into everyday American foods – like pizza, salads, etc. We did this as a side-project for two years until we got into most Whole Foods regions. At that point, we went full-time and have grown the brand into new stores and with new products.
Q: What is the inspiration behind Bandar Foods? 
A: Food is one of the strongest representations of a culture; and we wanted to create a brand that reflected the growing ethnic influences in everyday American society. We reimagine traditional global foods to be ubiquitous here in the US. For example, we realized that mango achaar is amazingly delicious, but unfamiliar for most people who didn’t grow up eating chutney. By pureeing it down and using clean, Non-GMO ingredients, we created an amazingly delicious, versatile hot sauce.
Q: How would you describe your brand in three words?
A: Bold, modern, everyday
Q: What’s your favorite Bandar Food product right now and why?
A: Bombay Ketchup. I was just in out in Mumbai visiting some of the farmers who grow the crops for our products. I had a wonderful conversation with our tomato farmer and was inspired by the pride that he takes with growing the tastiest products possible Our ketchup is awesome.
Q: What makes your product different from other brands and why would you recommend it to BollyX lovers?
A: Like BollyX, we are inspired by traditional Indian culture but completely make it our own. We’re silly, we go nuts, and have a blast. Also, our products are better-for-you, perfect after a BollyX workout. Our sauces are very low in calories and are a great way to add bold flavor to grilled chicken or vegetables. Our Naan Chips are only 2g of fat per serving – a wonderful post-workout snack!
Q: How does Bandar Foods encourage its customers to “unleash their inner rockstars?”
A: Travel! Get out in the world and experience the joy of all cultures around you! In fact, put our single-serve sauce packets in your bag so you can spice up that airplane food on the way!
Q: What’s in the future for Bandar Foods?
A: Lots of new flavors and products. Expect us to transform the “International Aisle” in your grocery into something more modern and special.