From mule business to multi-crore enterprise: The inspiring journey of Bamdev Bhatta’s sons

Dhangadhi: The life story of Bamdev Bhatta, who came to India from Gadsera in Doti in 2016 with a dream of studying, stands as a testament to struggle, honesty, and perseverance. Bhatta initially studied at Lakshminarayan Sanskrit College in Punjab, but financial difficulties forced him to Delhi in search of work. He began working in a garage but soon turned to transporting goods by mule, a profession that would define his life.

For about 40 years, Bhatta transported daily necessities by mule from Tanakpur to remote villages in Doti, Achham, Bajhang, and Bajura, crossing rivers like the Budhi Ganga and enduring snow, rain, and scorching sun. Starting as a daily wage worker, he eventually purchased five mules and established his own business. Though it took a year and a half to repay his debts, Bhatt persevered.

Despite facing losses and betrayals, he maintained his honesty, never withholding payment even when some businessmen defaulted. His reputation for integrity made him a preferred choice, including opportunities to transport goods for government offices and Khaptad Baba’s ashram. Over 20 years, he earned a livelihood in the remotest regions, reclaiming land mortgaged by his grandfather through sheer hard work, despite societal criticism of a laborer’s son entering the mule business.

After the armed conflict, his mule business gradually declined due to age and labor shortages, leading the family to migrate to Dhangadhi. Inspired by their father’s struggle, his sons Dharma and Dilli embarked on their entrepreneurial journey amidst financial hardship. Dharma started working for Rs. 4,500 per month, while Dilli learned electronics by working in a shop for Rs. 30 per day. Using Rs. 10,000 earned from data entry, Dilli registered ‘S Computers and Suppliers,’ initially carrying products from office to office in a bag. Despite being teased as a ‘bag trader,’ he remained undeterred.

The business, which began with three lakh rupees in 2070 BS, has now grown into a multi-crore enterprise. Today, the brothers operate a wholesale and retail business, supplying electronics and office stationery, with plans to expand into production-oriented industries.

Dharma and Dilli credit their father’s struggle as the driving force behind their success, while Bamdev Bhatt reflects, “Seeing my children succeed today feels like I have witnessed heaven in this life.”