Shiv Sagar Restaurant

Shiv Sagar

A part of S.P Group, Since 1981

Mr. Shankar R Poojary (1954-2007)

(Late) Mr. Shankar Rama Poojary (1954-2007)

The Man Who Dreamed Beyond Boundaries

A Dream Sparked by Love and Tradition

In 1954, in the serene coastal village of Padukone, Karnataka, a boy named Shankar was born with a heart full of dreams. Growing up in a humble riverside home, Shankar was surrounded by the warmth of family and the comforting aroma of hearty South Indian meals prepared by his mother in a firewood kitchen.

It was here that his love for food took root—a love inspired not just by the flavours of home but by his desire to provide for his beloved siblings. Many nights, Shankar lay awake, dreaming of a brighter future where his family had more than enough to thrive and to share. His dreams were as simple as they were profound: a life of abundance, joy, and togetherness.

A Journey of a Lifetime

At the tender age of 12, with stars in his eyes and hope in his heart, Shankar left the comfort of his village in 1966 and ventured to the bustling metropolis of Bombay—the city of dreams. With only Rs. 25 in his pocket and an unshakable determination, he set out to build a life not just for himself, but for those he loved.

Before setting foot on this life-changing journey, Shankar visited the temple of Lord Shiva, his guiding force and source of strength. He made a sacred vow that he wouldn’t return to his village until he had fulfilled his dreams and transformed his aspirations into reality. With the Lord’s blessings and unwavering faith, he embarked on a journey that would shape his destiny and leave an indelible mark on the world.

Lord Shiva Pooja during inauguration of Shiv Sagar, Vile Parle (East), Bombay (1981)

From Humble Beginnings to Rising Dreams

Bombay’s vibrant energy, teeming with its rich culture, diverse cuisine, arts, and music, became the perfect catalyst for Shankar’s ambitions. With an open heart and an eagerness to learn, he began his journey by taking up odd jobs in the bustling food and beverage industry, shuffling between roles to make ends meet.

His defining moment came when he joined his uncle and mentor, Mr. Suresh Poojari, the visionary behind the iconic Sukh Sagar restaurant in Chowpatty. Shankar’s relentless work ethic shone through as he toiled during the day, attended night school, and faithfully sent money back home every month, a testament to his unwavering devotion to his family.

(From Left to Right) Mr Suresh Poojari (mentor), Mr & Mrs Lachu Seth, Mr Shankar R Poojary (1981)

The Spark of a Culinary Legacy

True entrepreneurship thrives on risk and resilience, and Shankar embodied both. After gaining hands-on experience, he set out to carve his own path. In 1978, he took his first bold step by opening a modest Fruit Juice House near Liberty Cinema in New Marine Lines, Bombay.

Balancing this new venture with his role at Sukh Sagar, Shankar didn’t shy away from hard work. He managed operations, interacted warmly with guests, and exchanged stories and ideas that left lasting impressions. Working tirelessly for 16 to 18 hours a day, Shankar became a man defined by humility, passion, and an undeniable drive for excellence—a foundation for what would become a remarkable journey in the world of hospitality.

Mrs Kokila Ben, Society Member and guest (1981)

The Birth of Shiv Sagar

In 1981, after years of perseverance, Mr. Shankar Poojary took a leap of faith and transformed his small Fruit Juice House into a full-fledged vegetarian restaurant in Vile Parle (East), Bombay. He named it Shiv Sagar—a tribute to his devotion to Lord Shiva and his love for wholesome food.

Starting with fresh fruit juices, the restaurant gradually expanded its menu to include an array of flavourful dishes and diverse cuisines. Every item on the menu reflected Shankar’s unwavering passion for serving healthy, fresh, and lovingly handcrafted food, alongside his commitment to quality and exceptional service.

The Storm Before the Sunshine

Every great journey has its challenges, and Shiv Sagar’s story was no different. Six months into the business, the dream began to waver as sales struggled to pick up. Losses mounted, and the weight of disappointment began to take its toll.

Shankar, a man of immense drive, found himself questioning the future. But just when he considered giving up, his family and friends rallied behind him. They believed in his vision and knew that a dream so pure and a man so passionate couldn’t falter. Their support became the wind beneath his wings, reigniting his hope and determination.

Opening Ceremony Shiv Sagar Vile Parle (East) 1981

The Game Changer

The turning point came not long after, thanks to one of Shankar’s trusted staff members, Chef Manohar—fondly known as Babu Bhai. Together, they decided to introduce a bold new dish: the iconic Pav Bhaji.

The timing was perfect. Navratri had begun, and as blessings poured in, so did curious guests. The mouth-watering aroma, the perfect blend of spices, and the sheer affordability of the dish turned Pav Bhaji into an instant hit. Guests flocked to Shiv Sagar, eager to indulge in the now-famous delicacy that would go on to define the restaurant’s legacy.

From that moment, there was no looking back. Shiv Sagar became synonymous with the irresistible Pav Bhaji, winning hearts and palates alike.

The Rise of Shiv Sagar

As Shiv Sagar flourished, its offerings expanded beyond imagination. Guests could now indulge in an extensive menu featuring Pav Bhaji, South Indian, North Indian, Chinese, Italian, and Mexican cuisines, alongside refreshing Faloodas, Fresh Fruit Juices, and Milkshakes, all infused with a delightful Indian twist. Iconic dishes like Bombay Pizza, Chinese Bhel, Idli Chilly, and the beloved Pav Bhaji became timeless favourites, drawing diners from all walks of life.

With the unwavering support of loyal patrons, Mr. Shankar Poojary opened a second Shiv Sagar in Juhu and a third in Pune. This was only the beginning of a remarkable journey, as he later expanded to Goa, Bangalore, and even ventured internationally with a world-class branch in Dubai.

When Dreams Take Flight

The journey of a young boy from the quaint village of Padukone to an international stage is nothing short of extraordinary. Perhaps it was the rich soil of Padukone, known for nurturing greatness like Guru Dutt and Deepika Padukone. Or perhaps it was the love and encouragement of Shankar’s family, friends, guests, and staff who stood by him unwaveringly.

But most of all, it was his humble spirit and unyielding determination that propelled him forward, turning dreams into reality. Shankar Poojary didn’t just overcome challenges—he transcended them, earning the respect and goodwill of everyone he encountered.

A Legacy of Purpose and Passion

Shiv Sagar is not just a restaurant; it is a home built on vision, ethics, and compassion. Mr. Shankar Poojary was a friend to all, a legend to many, and a man whose simplicity and kindness left an indelible mark. His philanthropy extended far and wide, supporting causes like housing, education, and marriage, while his care for family and staff set a shining example for others.

His resilience and grit were a source of inspiration, overcoming every obstacle to build something extraordinary. Today, Shiv Sagar continues to reflect the values of a dream that began with a boy in a small village—a dream that became a symbol of hope and determination.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

The vision of Mr. Shankar Poojary lives on through his sons, Mr. Sunil S. Poojary and Mr. Shridhar S. Poojary. United by their father’s passion for vegetarian cuisine and impeccable service, the two brothers lead Shiv Sagar into the future.

Sunil focuses on strengthening the foundation and ensuring the brand’s quality and values remain intact, while Shridhar scales the business to new heights, bringing Shiv Sagar to an ever-growing audience. Together, they are committed to preserving their father’s legacy of flavours and nostalgia, keeping Shiv Sagar as a beacon of culinary excellence for generations to come.

Founder's Story

Shiv Sagar