Biography
K. Lakshminarayana Bhattar, popularly known as Bhima Bhattar, was an Indian businessman and founder of Bhima Jewellers. 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. He was the co-founder of All Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants Association. Born: 27 July 1904 Died: 16 December 1985 Birth place: Udyavara, Udupi, Madras Presidency, British India (present day Karnataka, India) Death place: Alappuzha, Kerala, India Occupation: Business Spouse: Vanaja Children: 12 }} Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhima_Bhattar Early life: He was born in a Shivalli Madhwa Brahmin family in Udyavara, near Udupi in 1904. 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: Bhattar recognised the potential in Alleppey for 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 was sold well. He was the first ready-made gold ornament jeweller in Kerala. He was one of the first diamond merchants in the Kerala state and also introduced Navaratna jewellery.date=January 2016