In the rapidly evolving landscape of the specialty chemical industry, one company has consistently stood out for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka, a visionary Managing Director whose strategic insights and leadership have propelled the company to new heights. In this exclusive cover story, we delve into the journey of Dr Aneel Murarka and explore how he has transformed Mirachem Industriies into an Industry powerhouse
A Visionary Leader with a Passion for Innovation
Dr Aneel Kashi Murarka’s journey in the specialty chemical industry began at a young age of 14 yrs when he was still a teenager. Under his father Mr Kashi Murarka’s mentorship and a keen interest in family business, he quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating an uncanny ability to foresee industry trends and respond with groundbreaking solutions. Since taking the reins as MD, Dr Murarka has been the driving force behind the company’s impressive growth and diversification
Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
Under Dr Murarka’s leadership, Mirachem Industriies has navigated numerous industry challenges, including fluctuating raw material prices, stringent regulatory environments, Covid-2019 lockdown and the ever-present demand for sustainable products. His strategic approach involves a blend of rigorous research and development, proactive regulatory compliance, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. “We see every challenge as an opportunity to innovate,” says Dr Murarka. “Our team is dedicated to developing products that not only meet our customers’ needs but also contribute to a more sustainable future. This philosophy has been central to our success.”
Innovating Sustainability: The Mirachem Industriies Story
Mirachem Industriies boasts a rich 45-year history of serving both the Indian and global textile markets. As one of the foremost manufacturers and suppliers of textile chemicals in the Indian subcontinent, Mirachem Industriies maintains a steadfast focus on quality, cost-effectiveness, and service excellence. The company has firmly established itself as a leader in the Indian specialty chemicals sector, distinguished by its innovative products and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. With operations spanning across India and South Asia, Mirachem has emerged as a premier supplier of specialty chemicals, particularly within the textile industry
Founded in 1969 by Mr Kashi Murarka, Mirachem Industriies embarked on its journey with a modest manufacturing unit producing laundry products. From these humble beginnings, the company has expanded exponentially. In 1981, Dr Aneel Murarka joined the family business, marking the beginning of a new era characterised by rapid infrastructure development and a steadfast commitment to innovation. “My father started his career as a salesperson in a clothing shop. Today, he is the founder and chairman of Mirachem Industriies. He is the brain behind our green chemistry and the driving force of operational efficiency. Following in his footsteps, my commitment to the team and organization remains steadfast,” says Dr Murarka
Mirachem’s Comprehensive Product Portfolio
Mirachem Industriies offers an extensive range of high-performance chemicals catering to various sectors. In textiles, their products serve applications for suiting, shirting, home textiles, denim, wool, synthetic fibers, knits and more. The agrochemical industry, Mirachem provides specialty chemicals for pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides
Notably, Mirachem is among the few companies whose chemical products are approved by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for organic textiles. All products comply with GOTS, Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC), REACH, European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), and Oeko-Tex standards, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability. Innovative Products and Cutting-Edge Technology. Mirachem Industriies is renowned for its diverse product portfolio, which caters to a wide range of top Industry brands. The company has driven a strong focus on research and development, leading to the creation of several innovative solutions. “Investing in R&D is crucial for our growth,” Dr Murarka notes. “We are constantly exploring new ways to improve our products and processes, leveraging the latest technologies to stay ahead of the curve.”
Cutting-Edge Research and Development
At the heart of Mirachem’s success lies its state-of-the-art R&D facility. The company invests in research and development to foster innovation and develop cutting-edge products. The R&D team, composed of skilled scientists and engineers, continuously explore new chemistries and refines existing formulations to meet evolving market needs. A significant focus for Mirachem is green chemistry. The company is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint through eco-friendly products and processes, utilizing renewable raw materials, energy-efficient manufacturing practices, and minimizing hazardous waste. This commitment to green chemistry ensures that Mirachem’s products are not only effective but also environmentally responsible
Sustainability: A Core Value
Sustainability is a core value at Mirachem Industriies. The company’s initiatives in this area are multifaceted. They emphasize sustainable sourcing, ensuring transparency and ethical practices in the supply chain. They implement energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources, engage in waste management practices aimed at reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, and support community engagement initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Mirachem’s commitment to sustainable development is evident in its adherence to the principles of “Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse.” This philosophy underpins the company’s efforts to optimise resources and minimize waste, ensuring long-term environmental and economic sustainability
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing
Mirachem’s manufacturing facility spans 50,000 square feet and is strategically located in the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) near Pune, Maharashtra. This location offers excellent connectivity to rail, air, and port services. The plant’s batch processes provide manufacturing flexibility, while the quality control labs employ dual testing methods to ensure the highest standards of product quality
Expansion and Future Prospects
Mirachem is poised for further growth, with plans to enter agro-based manufacturing and form joint collaborations with overseas companies for new innovations. The primary focus remains on expanding the R&D cell, which is crucial for the company’s future. This focus on research and development ensures that Mirachem continues to lead in innovation, bringing new and improved products to market. Continuous improvement in products with a focus on efficiency, ecology, and economy is an ongoing process at Mirachem. New product ideas are sourced from customer feedback, which is taken seriously and discussed in brainstorming sessions involving top management. Products are then developed, evaluated, refined, and launched, ensuring they meet market needs and environmental standards
Global Presence and Customer-Centric Focus
Mirachem has established itself as a formidable player in both domestic and international markets. Through strategic export initiatives, the company has expanded its reach beyond borders, capitalising on emerging market opportunities and diversifying its revenue streams. Mirachem’s overarching objective is not merely limited to revenue growth but extends to the enhancement of customer-centric experiences, reflecting its unwavering commitment to delivering value and satisfaction
This commitment is evident in the company’s proactive engagement with clients, seeking to understand their unique needs and preferences. Mirachem places significant emphasis on building and nurturing long-term relationships, recognizing that customer loyalty is a cornerstone of sustainable business success. Integral to its achievements is Mirachem’s robust distribution network, which ensures efficient and timely delivery of products to various corners of the country and globe. This proactive stance not only fortifies its market position but also positions Mirachem as a trusted partner in its customers’ growth journey
Strategic Partnership with Sciessent LLC, USA
Mirachem Industriies is proud to announce an exclusive distribution agreement with Sciessent LLC, USA, a global leader in specialty chemical finishes. This strategic partnership enhances Mirachem’s product portfolio and market presence, setting the stage for future collaborations and innovations. Both companies are committed to continuous improvement and joint R&D initiatives to create next-generation textile chemistries, addressing market needs and anticipating future trends. The partnership represents a strategic alliance that strengthens Mirachem’s market position and opens new opportunities. With a shared commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability, they are set to revolutionize the specialty chemical finishes market. Mirachem Managing Director Dr Aneel Murarka and Sciessent CEO Mr Paul Ford formalised this landmark agreement in Mumbai, highlighting their dedication to driving future success and innovation in the industry
Enhancing Client Engagement and Insights
Trade shows have evolved into essential platforms for communication and relationship-building with clients. In today’s competitive market, leveraging advanced marketing strategies is crucial. Team Mirachem has actively participated in selective major textile trade exhibitions across various cities in India, showcasing their latest product range and samples. The response has been phenomenal. They plan to maintain this momentum as these events provide valuable insights into the needs and expectations of the buyers. The direct feedback they received has been instrumental in refining their offerings
Empowering Communities and Giving Back
The Murarkas are a successful Rajasthani family from Lachhmangarh, Sikar district, Rajasthan. However, unlike many business tycoons, Dr Aneel Murarka didn’t inherit his fortune. He worked hard to achieve his success, demonstrating a self-made journey marked by determination and effort. He attributes his entrepreneurial and philanthropic success to his father and to the influence of Rajasthani culture and heritage
As a Trustee of Samarpn, C.B. Murarka Charitable Trust, Dr Murarka has spearheaded several public utility projects. In Mumbai, these include the Shivdham Crematorium and a Multi-purpose Temple Complex in Lonavala. In Lachhmangarh, the Trust has built a fully air-conditioned bus stand, multi-storyed lady police living quarters, a multi-purpose community hall, a Hanuman temple, lawyers’ chambers, and public restrooms. The Trust also built new temples in Rajasthan for Saptashrungi Devi and Balaji Hanuman ji, and renovated a 127-year-old Sankat Mochan Hanumanji temple originally built by their ancestors. Post pandemic, they have built a crematorium in a remote village in Munger dist in Bihar, as there was no facility for last rites. Currently one more new crematorium and a Shiv temple is to be built in Mainpur Gazipur dist in UP this year for which work is underway
As a philanthropist, Dr Murarka uses his entrepreneurial skills to create sustainable income sources for marginalised communities, including acid attack survivors, transgender persons, physically disabled, and tribal communities. His social programs include educational initiatives for slum and rural children, Adivasi upliftment activities, sporting and talent hunt camps for tribal youth, hunger elimination programs, and showcasing transgender talent at Times fashion week twice. Dr Murarka also created rural healthcare facilities, advocates for anti-plastic movements, organizes large-scale tree plantation drives, fills potholes to prevent accidents, and conducts cleanliness workshops. His efforts provide equal opportunities for differently-abled individuals and more
Ample Missiion, the social organization founded by Dr Murarka and led by son Sidhaant, aims to catalyse collaborative and impactful giving in India, prioritising vulnerable communities and creating opportunities for them. The Ample Missiion’s “Awards of Inspiration” started in 2015 also celebrate the bravery of unsung heroes, honoring men in uniform from the defense forces like Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Police and Fire Brigade personnel who risk their lives to save others. Additionally, they recognize specially-abled achievers who have accomplished extraordinary feats despite their handicaps. More than three decades into philanthropy and social work, they continue to make a positive impact as a way of giving back to society
Producing Short Films for Social Awakening
Dr Murarka’s lesser known role as the Producer of many short films on Social Issues that made a lasting impact on the masses of our country and also gone viral in social media. Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji and PMO lauded his efforts in a tweet. These short films are based on current issues like Swachh Abhiyan – Cleanliness, Anti-Tobacco, Road Safety, Breast Cancer awareness and others. So far he had produced over two dozen Public awareness short films featuring leading Bollywood Stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Kangana Ranaut, Shaan, Sunny Leone, Alok Nath, Deepak Dobriyal, Isha Koppikar and many more who lent their support to his short films. In recognition of his efforts the Ministry of Urban development, Govt of India appointed him as the Brand Ambassador for the Swachh Abhiyan Mission
Passing the Baton: Next Generation Takes the Reins
The third generation of the Murarkas has embarked on the journey of steering the company’s day-to-day operations. Sidhaant Murarka, the young Jt Managing Director, son of Dr Aneel Murarka embodies dynamism and a go-getter attitude. With a background in chemical engineering and a MBA from a prestigious institute, Sidhaant brings a fresh perspective to the table, revitalizing the company for future dynamics. His keen focus on business development and swift execution are driving forces behind the company’s evolution
Forging a Sustainable Path Forward
Mirachem Industriies, under the visionary leadership of Dr Aneel Murarka, exemplifies the perfect blend of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. The company’s remarkable journey from a small manufacturing unit to a global leader in the specialty chemicals industry is a testament to its commitment to excellence and its ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic market. As Mirachem continues to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, it stands as a beacon of progress and a model for other companies to follow. Dr Murarka’s leadership, combined with the dedication of the Mirachem team, ensures that the company will remain at the forefront of the industry, setting new standards and creating a better, more sustainable future for all