The Jyoti Kariwala Story: From Passion to a Pandemic-Proof Lemon Krust

Jyoti Kariwala never intended to build an empire.

She loved baking.

In a simple household in Kolkata, weekend treats for family and friends began to morph into something more. But then, orders came pouring in and news spread. At that point, Jyoti recognised that this was no longer just about baking; it was about business.

But there was a tiny obstacle: she didn't have a business background.

So she did what very few would likely do: she learned.

Jyoti enrolled in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women program at IIM Bangalore, with women who had MBAs and business plans. She brought some cake samples along.

And she came out with clarity.

Jyoti was never interested in selling only desserts. Her goal was to turn Lemon Krust into a bakery with pillars of quality, freshness, and trust—a name touted by mothers. Something that meant a bit more than a treat. It meant home.

And that's when the pandemic hit.

Like everyone else, Jyoti was pushed to the edge—nearly to the point of giving up. She pivoted quickly and managed to secure the license to operate under the "essentials" category. While everyone else sat still, Lemon Krust delivered.

Fresh bread. Homemade cakes. Drop-offs at apartments. 

Some folks started calling her "Ma Annapurna"—goddess of nourishment. 

Because they were not just ordering food—they were seeking comfort. 

And Jyoti delivered. 

Not a single employee was laid off. The business tripled in size during the lockdown. 

Because in times of crisis, Lemon Krust did not sell, it served. 

Today, Lemon Krust is not only for the regular folk, but also supplies high-profile clientele and mixes classic recipes with modern offerings. The brand has built a reputation for its offerings of unrelenting freshness and imagination.

But what will endure from Jyoti? 

Trust. 

"When I can't cook, I order from Lemon Krust—with no fear. And no guilt." 

Because Jyoti is more than a baker or even a CEO. 

She is a mother who created something that is home for hundreds of other mothers like herself. 

And now she's mentoring women who are standing in the same place she was—asking themselves, "Can I take my passion down that path?" 

And her answer. 

Yes. 

With love. With balance. With resilience.

A loud yes.

– As narrated by Jyoti Kariwala, penned by the Rolling Authors® team. Visit us at www.rollingauthors.com for book writing and editing.