Deepak Nirula, former co-managing director of Delhi's iconic fast food chain Nirula's, died at the age of 70 on Oct. 4.
The chain, known for its hot chocolate fudge, pizzas, burgers and mutton chops, was founded by brother duo Lakshmi Chand Nirula and Madan Gopal Nirula. Deepak was the son of Madan Nirula.
A obituary published in TOI's Delhi edition on Oct. 6.
While the brand traces its origin back to 1934, Deepak Nirula and Lakshmi Chand Nirula's son Lalit helped Nirula's take shape the way it is known today and established it as Delhi's first fast-food restaurant. The first outlet was opened in Connaught Place in 1977.
Through the years, the two brothers ran operations at the chain as co-managing directors. In 2006, private equity firm Navis Capital bought Nirula's from family ownership and remained invested till 2012.
During Navis' ownership, Nirula's entered new formats such as casual dining, ice-cream stores and snacks. Also, a franchise model was developed that allowed stores to be opened and operated by franchisees across the country. According to Navis, Nirula's grew to 80 outlets across the country, up from 20 in 2006.
In June 2012, Navis sold Nirula's to A2Z Excursions Pvt., a private business group with interests in hotel, real estate, travel and tourism sectors in India, run by businessman Pradeep Chadha.
As news of Nirula's demise broke, several took to Twitter to reminisce their memories of the fast-food brand.
Today paid my homage and said goodbye to Deepak Nirula - the man who revolutionised QSRS in the country. Mentored hundreds of managers in the restaurant industry. Triple Hot Chocolate Sundae, Mutton Chops, Pizza and Ice Cream - the man brought so much joy to our childhood
Nirulas. The place we went to from school and college to celebrate. The place where we took our children to relive the many happy memories linked with Nirulas. Can only thank them for thinking ahead of their time and giving us memories of a lifetime. RIP Deepak Nirula.
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