"Hira Birla opened the Bay Area's original Bharat Bazar in 1974 in the city of Santa Clara, making it the region's oldest Indian grocery chain."
"In the 1960s, Hira opened the first Bharat Bazar in Yuba City, importing ingredients from India and packaging them by hand."
"Together, the couple sold staples like lentils, spices and rice, with Veena making samosas by hand."
"My mom was a school teacher in India but also ended up being a great manager, while my dad was the ideas guy."
Bharat Bazar in Fremont offers a wide variety of lentils and Indian produce, reflecting its cultural significance. Founded in 1974 by Hira Birla, it is the oldest Indian grocery chain in the Bay Area. Hira, who immigrated from Punjab, initially worked in agriculture before opening a liquor store. The first Bharat Bazar was established in Yuba City, later moving to Santa Clara due to demand. Hira's wife, Veena, contributed significantly to the business, expanding it to include various services and products.
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