Bhima Bhattar
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27 July 1904
Bhima Bhattar | |
|---|---|
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| Born | K. Lakshminarayana Bhattar 27 July 1904 |
| Died | 16 December 1985 (aged 81) |
| Occupation | Business |
| Years active | 1924 – 1985 |
| Spouse | Vanaja |
| Children | 12 |
K. Lakshminarayana Bhattar (27 July 1904 – 16 December 1985), popularly known as Bhima Bhattar, was an Indian businessman and founder of Bhima Jewellers.[1] He pioneered the concept of ready made jewellery in Kerala with the establishment of Bhima Jewellers with his brothers at Mullakkal, Alleppey, the first of its kind in Kerala.[2] He was the co-founder of All Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants Association.[3]
He was born in a Shivalli Madhwa Brahmin family in Udyavara, near Udupi in 1904.[4] Later he moved to Alleppey to live with his brother-in-law, and used to help out at his restaurant, Girija Nivas, after school hours. He started a small business of selling perfumes and cosmetics at Girija Nivas while working there.
Career
Bhatter realized that Alleppey had a market for silver jewellery, cutlery, and puja articles. He created a silver tumbler that proved popular. The business grew, and 22 carat gold jewellery sold well. He was the first ready-made gold ornament jeweller in Kerala.[5] He was one of the first diamond merchants in the Kerala state and also introduced Navaratna jewellery.[citation needed]