Dharampal Gulati, MDH spice owner, passes away at 97

One of India’s most inspiring entrepreneurs Mahashay Dharampal Gulati passed away early morning on December 3.

He was the founder of India’s biggest spice brand MDH (Mahshian Di Hatti) and was popular with various nicknames such as MDH uncle’, ‘Dadaji’, ‘Masala King’, or ‘King of Spices’.

He was a popular face as he also used to give an appearance in MDH advertisements.

With a humble beginning in 1959 with an MDH spice producing unit in Delhi’s Kirti Nagar area, his sheer dedication and hard work made his spice brand an internationally-acclaimed product. Besides India, his wide variety of spices was popular globally.

He was born in 1919 in Pakistan’s Sialkot. His father had a small shop there but he chose to move to Delhi after the partition.

Many prominent leaders have expressed grief on his death and paid their tribute. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind said, “Dharm Pal ji was a very inspiring personality. He dedicated his life for the society. God bless his soul.”

Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Manish Sisodia, called him the most inspiring entrepreneur.

“India's most inspiring entrepreneur, MDH owner Dharm Pal Mahashay passed away this morning,” Sisodia informed on his Twitter handle.

He further wrote, “I have never met such an inspiring and lively soul. May his soul rest in peace.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that he felt saddened by the passing away of one of India's most respected businessmen, Mahasri Dharmapalji.

“He started his small business and made a mark of himself. He was very active in social work and remained active till the last moment. I express my condolences to his family,” Singh said.