Wagh Bakri executive director (49) dies after street dog attack
What's the story
The executive director of Wagh Bakri Tea Group, Parag Desai, passed away on Sunday, aged 49, the company announced on social media on Monday. He was attacked by stray dogs outside his residence on October 15. He suffered grave injuries trying to ward off the attack, Ahmedabad Mirror reported. He died of a brain hemorrhage while undergoing treatment at Zydus Hospital in Gujarat's Ahmedabad.
Twitter Post
Prominent leaders condole with Desai's family
Very sad news coming in. Parag Desai, Director and owner Wagh Bakri Tea passed away. He had a brain haemorrhage following a fall.
— Shaktisinh Gohil MP (@shaktisinhgohil) October 22, 2023
May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to the entire Wagh Bakri family across India. pic.twitter.com/Md0xLppL2X
Details
Desai was on ventilator after attack
Reportedly, Desai was on ventilator support for the last few days as he suffered a brain hemorrhage. On October 15, a security guard outside Desai's residence alerted his family members after he suffered the fatal injury. He was initially rushed to Shelby Hospital in Ahmedabad. After keeping him under observation for a day, the doctors referred him to Zydus Hospital for surgery.
Information
Survived by wife, daughter
Desai is survived by his wife, Vidisha, and daughter Parisha. His last rites were reportedly conducted at Ahmedabad's Thaltej Crematorium on Monday morning. He was associated with several charities, including the Blind People's Association and Jivdaya Charitable Trust, which has a veterinary hospital in Ahmedabad.
Details
Desai modernized the Wagh Bakri brand
Reportedly, Desai headed Wagh Bakri's sales, marketing, and exports, while his father, Rashesh Desai, is the managing director. After pursuing an MBA from Long Island University, US, he returned to modernize the century-old tea company—founded by his great grandfather Narandas Desai—which currently has a turnover of Rs. 2,000 crore. The company has a presence across India and recently ventured into Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
Company
Expanded brand by introducing new products
Wagh Bakri is the third biggest packaged tea brand in India, per NDTV. Desai was dubbed a tea evangelist, teaching foreigners the art of preparing a good cup of tea. Notably, he expanded the company by launching tea lounges and new products such as iced tea and coffee. He was an active participant in leading industry forums, including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).