When Ashish Ranjan dropped out of college, he wasn’t quite sure where life was headed. But a heartfelt promise to his late mother became the turning point in his journey. In 2017, Ashish, along with his childhood friend Buddhisen Bittu, launched a humble startup called OCB—Online Cake Bhejo, in Patna. Today, the venture is valued at over Rs 1.5 crore and is transforming lives across rural Bihar—especially the lives of women farmers.

Ashish’s mother had always encouraged him to do something meaningful, to give back to society. Before her untimely passing, she expressed her desire to see Ashish create something of his own—something that would bring pride and help others. That final wish stayed with him. It became the inspiration behind OCB, a brand that not only delivers sweet treats but also delivers on a bigger purpose.

Instead of opting for the conventional bakery ingredients, Ashish chose to focus on millets—a nutritious and eco-friendly alternative to refined flour. This decision wasn't just about health or trend. It was a strategic move to support local millet farmers and revive traditional grains that were slowly disappearing from Indian kitchens.

What sets OCB apart is its deep community involvement. The startup employs over 50 women from farming communities in Bihar who are trained in baking millet-based products such as cookies, muffins, brownies, and cakes. These women are not just employees; they are stakeholders in a movement that brings dignity, purpose, and income to their families.

The brand’s model is simple yet powerful: blend health, tradition, and empowerment into every product. Each item is handcrafted, free from maida (refined flour), and uses locally sourced millets like ragi, bajra, and jowar. The treats are not just delicious—they're guilt-free and packed with nutritional value.

OCB started with online orders through social media and WhatsApp and eventually expanded into a full-fledged chain of millet bakeries in Patna and nearby towns. Today, the brand is not just a bakery—it’s a story of hope, resilience, and grassroots innovation.

Ashish’s dedication has won OCB several accolades and even the attention of food-tech investors. But for him, the real reward is seeing his mother's dream live on—not just in his success but in the smiles of the women who bake, the children who eat healthier, and the villages that feel seen and empowered.

As India rediscovers the value of its indigenous grains, ventures like Online Cake Bhejo show that entrepreneurship is not just about profit—it’s about purpose.

Ashish Ranjan didn’t just build a brand. He built a legacy—one that started with a mother’s love and continues with every millet cookie that leaves his bakery.