In 1971, Mahesh Chandra Gupta, one of the early Indian expatriate professionals in Fiji, moved with Mrs. Kusum Gupta and their family to serve as Town Engineer for Lautoka City Council. The family spent six years in Fiji during his tenure. Their Indian-style Holi and Diwali celebrations brought friends together to share and enjoy the family’s traditions.
Mahesh Chandra Gupta (third from left) and Mrs. Kusum Gupta (fourth from left), with their family
02
BACK IN INDIA
Friendships that stayed.
Their years in Fiji created a lasting bond that continued after they returned to India. Mahesh Chandra Gupta registered East West Export Corporation before his passing in 1982. Friends in Fiji then gave their support—and the orders that helped the family begin its business.
Mahesh Chandra Gupta (left) with Hari Punja (second from left)
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1983 · THE BEGINNING
Mrs. Kusum Gupta. The driving force.
Mrs. Kusum Gupta began building the business in India in 1983 and led it for many years as chairman. An entrepreneur with remarkable determination, she oversaw every part of the business—from sourcing and client relationships to staff, packing and accounts. After her husband’s passing, she faced the challenges of building a business with resolve. Her honesty and integrity earned lasting client trust. Together with her family, she developed the team, the packing operation and lasting relationships with buyers and suppliers.
Mrs. Kusum Gupta with her daughter
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1983–2010 · THE GROWTH YEARS
Built together over decades.
Working alongside her son-in-law, Mrs. Kusum Gupta built the foundation of the business their family carries forward today. They supplied products from India to Fiji, then added markets including New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Mauritius and South Africa.
Their travels across India built close ties with manufacturers, including those in smaller towns and remote locations. Some supplier partnerships continue after more than 20–25 years.
Mrs. Kusum Gupta with her son-in-law
TODAY
The next chapter. A wider world.
Kabir Jolly and Rishi Jolly, grandsons of Mrs. Kusum Gupta, joined the business in 2010 and now lead a global export business—growing exports and lasting buyer relationships across international markets. They strengthened the family’s Fiji connection by establishing a local distribution office.
The company became East West Brothers Limited in 2018. The tradition continues: travelling with samples, meeting buyers in person and earning trust over time.