Spice Kitchen co-founder Shashi Aggarwal is living proof that entrepreneurship doesn’t come with an age limit. Appearing alongside her son, Sanjay, on an upcoming episode of Dragons’ Den, at 76 Ms Aggarwal is believed to be among the oldest entrepreneurs ever to take part in the programme.
Founded by mother and son Shashi and Sanjay Aggarwal, Spice Kitchen is a family-run business inspired by Shashi’s Indian heritage and a lifelong passion for sharing spices, recipes and stories around the table. Since launching, the business has grown from a small family venture into an internationally recognised brand, receiving multiple awards for its commitment to craftsmanship, customer experience and social impact.
Now, the mother-and-son team will step forward on BBC One to share the story behind the business they have built together. For Ms Aggarwal, the opportunity represents far more than a television appearance. It is another chapter in a remarkable journey that began later in life and has become a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs of all ages. Her story is a reminder that new beginnings don’t belong to the young alone, and that passion, curiosity and determination never have an expiry date.
As Spice Kitchen has grown from conversations around the kitchen table into an internationally recognised brand, it has remeained rooted in the values that inspired it from the very beginning: bringing people together, celebrating culture and sharing meaningful experiences.
“We’re absolutely delighted to have had the opportunity to face this together,” said Shashi Aggarwal. “Whatever happens, it was a very special experience for our family and one we’ll always treasure.”
“Standing as the lift doors opened alongside my mum is something I’ll never forget,” added Sanjay Aggarwal. “Spice Kitchen has always been about mum, her knowledge and her phenomenal spice cookery. She has always shown me that it’s never too late to try something new, keep learning or take a leap of faith. I hope people watching at home see that too.”
Tune in to watch Shashi and Sanjay’s appearance on BBC One on 20 August at 8pm, or catch up afterwards on BBC iPlayer.
Find more stories from inspiring entrepeneurs from the food and drink sector here…