In the vibrant world of culinary excellence, Jayaram Banan stands out as a beacon of Indian cuisine. The visionary owner of the iconic restaurant chain, Sagar Ratna, comes with a deep-rooted passion for food and an unwavering commitment to quality. Banan’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic that can happen when dreams are pursued with dedication.
The Life of Jayaram Banan
- Jayaram was born on 7th April 1954 in Uddapi near Mangalore, Karnataka.
- Strict parents surrounded Jayaram Banan’s family aura. His father, Soorappa, was a driver and was very strict while his son was growing up.
- Banan was beaten up by his father every time he failed school examinations. Fearlessly being scolded again, he stole money from his father’s pocket and ran away from home at 13.
- With its first-ever branch in Defence Colony, Sagar Ratna currently stands worth 300 crore business, with over 100 outlets nationwide and globally with its presence in Canada, Singapore, and Bangkok. However, Jayaram Banan’s net worth isn’t publicly disclosed.
- He worked as a dishwasher at the canteen for almost eight years before becoming a server and eventually reaching the position of manager. He was paid Rs. 200 every month. During this time, he learned how a South Indian food restaurant operates, and he chose to create his first location in Mumbai. But he quickly changed his mind after realizing the city had far too many restaurants and chose Delhi as an ideal place, to begin with.
- Being an esteemed member of the Jayaram Banan Group, he owns a chain of restaurants, star-category hotels, budget hotels, and canteens at industrial establishments.
- Jayaram Banan’s lifestyle is rooted in his simplicity and humbleness, even after gaining much recognition and fame.
- Renaming the restaurant from Sagar to Sagar Ratna, Jayaram Banan has taken the brand to be named among the top 10 South Indian restaurants in Delhi.
- Below is the chronology of his life & career trajectory:
| YEAR | EVENTS |
| 1973 | Moved to Delhi and married his wife, Mrs. Prema |
| 1974 | Cracked Central Electronics canteen tender, Ghaziabad |
| 1986 | Opened a restaurant named ‘SAGAR’ |
| 1991 | Took over Woodland Restaurant (Popular for South-Indian eateries in Delhi back then) |
| Late 90s | Took over Dasprakasa (Popular for South-Indian eateries in Delhi back then) |
| Late 90s or early 2000s | The restaurant’s name changed from ‘SAGAR’ to ‘SAGAR RATNA’ |
The Man with a Taste for Success: Jayaram Banan and Sagar Ratna’s Legacy
- With a humble beginning and limited resources, Banan’s journey as the owner of Sagar Ratna has been marked by remarkable achievements and undeniable hardships.
- Some of Jayaram Banan’s hardships were Overcoming financial constraints, managing operational complexities, and navigating market fluctuations.
- However, his unyielding determination and passion for South Indian cuisine propelled him forward. Banan turned Sagar Ratna into an iconic culinary brand through relentless efforts and a commitment to quality.
- His ability to persevere through tough times exemplifies the indomitable spirit of an entrepreneur, inspiring others to face their struggles with courage.
- Jayaram Banan’s struggles demonstrate the resilience and determination required to succeed, making his story all the more inspiring to aspiring entrepreneurs and food enthusiasts alike.
- The core principles of Sagar Ratna were deeply ingrained in Banan’s vision – to serve wholesome, traditional dishes prepared with love and care.