No interest in politics, says Nara Brahmani

Nara Brahmani, the Executive Director of Heritage Foods and wife of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) General Secretary Nara Lokesh, who also serves as Andhra Pradesh's IT Minister, has put to rest any speculation about her potential entry into politics. She stated unequivocally that she has no desire to pursue a career in public life.

Speaking at the recent Business Today's Most Powerful Women in Business awards ceremony held in Mumbai, Brahmani explained that politics simply doesn't appeal to her. She emphasized that she already has a fulfilling role where she can see the direct and significant impact of her work.

Brahmani referred to Heritage Foods as "my organization, my first child," highlighting the platform it provides for her to make a meaningful difference. She believes this impact surpasses what she could achieve in a political position.

A Stanford MBA graduate, Brahmani underscored the positive influence Heritage Foods has on the lives of hundreds of thousands of women farmers and millions of consumers across India. She has no intention of relinquishing this opportunity.

She also noted that her professional endeavors are closely aligned with her personal passion for health and nutrition. With operations spanning 19 states and milk procurement activities in seven to eight states, Heritage Foods prioritizes farmer empowerment. Women constitute nearly 80% of the company's producer base, a fact that Brahmani emphasized as crucial to her leadership approach.

In the 2024-25 financial year, Heritage Foods reported a turnover of ₹4,134.6 crore. Reflecting on her journey with the company, Brahmani recounted joining the dairy business, which was founded over three decades ago by her father-in-law, N Chandrababu Naidu, with the aim of supporting farmers in the Chittoor region.

As Heritage Foods evolved into a listed company navigating thin margins and a complex supply chain, Brahmani recognized the need for a more focused strategic direction. This involved a shift towards value-added products, which currently account for 32% of the company's revenue, with plans for continued growth in this area.

Brahmani credited her mother-in-law, Nara Bhuvaneswari, for fostering an inclusive environment that facilitated her entry into the business. She also described Chandrababu Naidu as her most influential mentor, noting that family council meetings are conducted with the same rigor as professional board meetings. Despite her family's strong political ties, Brahmani reiterated that her primary focus remains firmly on her business responsibilities.