Surya Prakash and VenkataKollu say it was always their dream to bring the goodness of India to the shores of Australia
Sweet India was set up at a time when good Indian sweets were something of a rarity in Melbourne. The shipments from India were your best bet.
Venkat and Prakash wanted to change this. Like all good ideas, the implementation was long and difficult. But in the end they pulled it off.
“In 2007 we started thinking about it and by May that year we had rented out the property at Kilmur Road in Hoppers Crossing,” says Surya.
The toughest part was getting sweet makers who could speak English and meet all the visa requirements.
Some of the best sweet makers are known for their skill because it’s a family tradition. “They learn it from their dads or uncles,” says Surya.
He says that apart from the high quality of the product, management plays a big role in the success of Sweet India. “We managed to maintain our high quality. We did this by not cutting costs. We also committed to a particular product and we stuck to it. We have the same range. Of course, on special occasions, we bring a couple of new products on,” he says.
Sweet India has now opened branches in Geelong and Lyndhurst.
Published in The Indian Sun (Indian Magazine in Melbourne)
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
