Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai, the driving force behind the ‘Pitambari Group of Industries’ in Thane, is well-known for his sense of social responsibility as an entrepreneur. But beyond business, he is also a devoted follower of the trinity of “God, Nation, and Religion.” A true swayamsevak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he is a staunch patriot who upholds Hindutva and is always prepared to protect dharma, while considering service to the nation as the highest duty.
From childhood, he has been imbued with the ideology of the Sangh. Under his leadership, the ‘Pitambari’ group upholds not only professional excellence but also integrity, cultural values, and national ideals. Dr. Prabhudesai maintains a fine balance between business and national service. His work stands as an inspiring story of an ideal patriot contributing to the making of a New India.
This article unveils the radiant personality and deep patriotism of Dr Ravindra Prabhudesai.
Special Column
The sacrifice by the soldiers and generals for the Hindavi Swarajya as envisaged by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is supreme. Similarly, in the present times, many devout Hindus and patriotic citizens of this country have been striving to protect the Nation and Dharma. The ‘Warriors of Hindutva’ is a series of articles that sheds light on their life and their struggle to protect Hindu Dharma. We hope that it serves as a catalyst for the mission of establishing Hindu Rashtra and inspires many others. – Editor
1. True Religious Service Lies in Fully Supporting Those Engaged in Spreading Dharma and Serving the Nation
Ravindraji’s father, the late Vamanrao Prabhudesai, was a devoted member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). As a result, from childhood, RSS shakhas (local branches) became an integral part of Ravindraji’s life.
The shakha is like a workshop for shaping one’s character. If Ravindra Ji ever missed a session, his father would discipline him by making him either stand in a bent posture or skip a meal. These early impressions of Sangh culture instilled a lifelong discipline and a strong commitment to national service in him.
In his younger days, Ravindraji used to play the bugle at the shakha. Today, that same victorious sound of the bugle metaphorically resonates on a global stage through the achievements of the Pitambari industrial group.
While managing his own business, Ravindra Prabhudesai has consistently continued his association with the Sangh (RSS). In recent times, as topics like Hindutva and nationalism have come to the forefront, many entrepreneurs prefer to keep a safe distance from such sensitive issues—understandably, due to professional necessities. However, Ravindra Prabhudesai approaches these matters of Hindutva and nationalism with clear vision and conviction.
He fearlessly and loyally expresses views he believes to be right. Hindutva is the very foundation of the Sangh’s ideology, and Ravindraji remains fully committed to supporting it in every possible way. He has consistently provided both financial and intellectual support to the cause.
A. A prime example of this commitment was when he provided full support, encouragement, and resources to karsevaks from Thane as well as Pitambari employees during the demolition of the Babri structure. Even today, he has generously contributed toward the construction of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
B. To spread the thoughts of Swatantryaveer Savarkar to a wider audience, Ravindra Prabhudesai booked the Aradhana cinema hall in Thane to screen the film Veer Savarkar by Shri Sudhir Phadke free of cost for all Bajrang Dal volunteers. During that period, many Bajrang Dal activists in Thane were frequently arrested due to various social and religious issues. False police complaints were often filed against several of them, attempting to destroy their lives. In those challenging times, Ravindraji took the initiative to post cash bail to secure their immediate release. His unwavering support gave the volunteers the confidence that Ravindraji would always stand firmly behind them. As a result, Bajrang Dal workers in Thane were able to confront socio-religious issues with courage. Additionally, he provided employment opportunities to many such volunteers within the Pitambari business group.
C. Ravindra Prabhudesai has shouldered several responsibilities with great ease and dedication — he has been a volunteer at the Chhatrapati Sangh Shakha, the Vice President of the Konkan region of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and the former President and current Patron of Sanskar Bharati in Thane city.
Likewise, he is actively associated with several esteemed organizations such as Sanatan Sanstha, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Sanskar Bharati, and the Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad.
D. Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai is always ready to extend both financial and intellectual support by offering “Satpatri Daan” (donations to righteous causes) to organizations actively engaged in the propagation of Dharma and national service.
To mention a few recent examples — he has contributed towards the construction of the new office of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, supported blood banks, the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, the establishment of the Research Center of Maharshi Adhyatma Vishwavidyalay, and the ‘Shankhnaad’ program of Sanatan Sanstha.
He actively promotes spiritual and religious initiatives such as assisting in the renovation of temples across Maharashtra and organizing satsangs at Tamhane-Sakhaloli through Sanatan Sanstha.
Further, by embracing the vision of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family — he supports institutions and organizations in metropolitan areas that strive to uphold cultural pride. He aids them to the best of his ability in carrying forward their missions. Under this broad vision, he has been providing financial assistance for years — and also personally participating — in events and programs centered on Indian festivals, traditions, and celebrations such as dramatics, dance, music, storytelling, rangoli art, New Year processions, Gudhi Padwa, Gokulashtami, Diwali, and initiatives rooted in science, history, and environmental awareness.
Shri (Dr.) Ravindra Prabhudesai, MD of Pitambari Group of Industries, was honored with a civic felicitation for his leadership in industry, generating employment for Marathi youth & promoting entrepreneurship.
✨ Dignitaries at the event:
🔹CM @Dev_Fadnavis & DyCM… pic.twitter.com/HcwRNXYq9L— Sanatan Sanstha (@SanatanSanstha) April 18, 2025
E. Ravindraji’s deep-seated aspiration has always been for the nation to progress on an entrepreneurial level — for new entrepreneurs to step forward and become job creators instead of job seekers. It is with this vision that he has remained actively associated with organisations such as the Saturday Club, Udyog Anubhav Pratishthan, Karhade Brahmin Business Forum, and Laghu Udyog Bharati. Today, many young Brahmins are moving away from priesthood, agriculture, or conventional employment to embrace entrepreneurship — and Ravindraji is often cited as an inspirational force behind this shift.
Elaborating on the spirit that drives his national service, Ravindraji affirms, “There is nothing greater than God, Nation, and Dharma. Therefore, it is my firm conviction that true service to Dharma lies in extending wholehearted support to institutions and establishments engaged in religious propagation and national service.”
2. The Journey of Pitambari: From Swadeshi to Self-Reliance!
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj founded the Hindavi Swarajya on the three pillars of Swadeshi (self-reliance), Swabhasha (native language), and Swarajya (self-rule). Inspired by these ideals, Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai made a firm commitment to keep the Pitambari brand entirely Swadeshi. All Pitambari products are developed using Indian knowledge, with the support of Indian people, and intended for Indian consumers.
From its inception, Pitambari has embraced the Swadeshi ethos and made consistent efforts to uphold it. A shining example of this is the ‘Devbhakti Agarbatti’, which is made using natural flower extracts. However, the bamboo sticks required for these incense sticks were being imported from Vietnam and China, which not only increased the production cost but also made the process time-consuming.
While searching for a solution, Dr. Prabhudesai discovered that Northeast India is rich in forest and agricultural resources related to bamboo species. Acting on this insight, he procured land near Guwahati and began bamboo cultivation and stick production locally for the Devbhakti Agarbatti. This ensured that the funds previously spent on imports remained within the country.
Additionally, large-scale bamboo plantations have also been established in Tamhane and Talavade (in Rajapur Taluka) and Sakhaloli (in Dapoli Taluka) of Ratnagiri district. The machinery used for processing these sticks is also entirely indigenous.
Thus, from the creation of fragrance to the final incense product, Pitambari has become completely self-reliant (Atmanirbhar). Moreover, this incense stick venture has generated employment for over 100 families.
Credits : Untold Stories
3. A Firm Step Towards Consumer Freedom – Commitment to ‘Om’-Certified Products !
Another significant initiative undertaken by Ravindraji in the mission of nation-building is the adoption of the ‘Om’ certification. Today, from food items to garments, medicines to cosmetics, businesses are compelled to obtain Halal certification — a system that validates products as permissible according to Islamic law. Consequently, even Hindus are often forced to purchase these Halal-certified products.
Opposing this compulsion, Ravindraji recently accepted the ‘Om’ certification in the presence of Shri Ranjit Savarkar, grandson of Swatantryaveer Savarkar, at the Savarkar Memorial in Dadar. He committed to making Pitambari products ‘Om’-certified, standing against the Halal imposition, which violates both the religious freedom guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and the rights of Hindu consumers.
By rejecting this imposed system, Pitambari will henceforth follow a clear policy of ‘from Hindus, for Hindus’ through Om-certified products. With this consumer-conscious initiative, Ravindraji has once again translated into action the philosophy of “Customer is Divine”, which has long guided both him and the Pitambari brand.
A Work Ethic Rooted in Spiritual Practice and Deeply Connected to Hindu Culture
Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai attributes his virtues—such as using wealth earned through business for national service, religious awakening, and cultural initiatives, as well as generously supporting social institutions—to his spiritual practice. He has cultivated an attitude of selfless offering, surrendering body, mind, and wealth in his spiritual pursuit, guided by the belief that “everything we possess truly belongs to the Divine.”
Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai firmly believes that if India becomes a Hindu nation and more people adopt a way of life based on the values embodied in the word “Hindu,” it will lead to an atmosphere of peace, contentment, and joy in society. According to him, if every individual engages in spiritual practice, they will attain true happiness. However, building such a Hindu nation requires collective effort—and he believes that such efforts are only possible through spiritual discipline.
As a step in this direction, Pitambari has created a special daily planner based on the theme “12 Spiritual Principles and Techniques for Business Growth”, with the aim of providing everyone with core mantras for professional advancement through spirituality—thereby enabling personal growth that contributes to the progress of the nation as a whole.
Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai has taken significant steps to ensure that every team member at the Pitambari Group benefits from spiritual practice. Guided by the teachings of the Sanatan Sanstha, regular satsangs have been organized for employees. Each workday at the Pitambari office begins with morning prayers and chanting, grounding the team in devotion and discipline.
Not just employees—even customers are introduced to the value of spiritual practice. With every pack of incense sticks or puja items, Pitambari includes an informative leaflet titled “How to Practice Spirituality?” to help spread awareness.
To maintain a strong connection with Hindu culture, every Hindu festival is celebrated at the workplace. These occasions are marked by various programs conducted through the company’s cultural committee.
Dr. Prabhudesai draws deep inspiration from the administrative style of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He actively incorporates Shivaji Maharaj’s principles of management within his own organization and encourages others to follow suit.
Through personal experience, Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai has realized how the core principles of Sanatan Dharma—Naam (chanting God’s name), Satsang (spiritual gatherings), Satseva (selfless service), and Tyag (sacrifice)—can aid in business growth. He believes that spiritual practice can help overcome destiny and lead to true progress.
Just as the universe is composed of the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether (space)—a successful business, too, stands on five foundational elements or “5 M’s.” Each of these elements is associated with a divine force. Chanting the name of one’s family deity (kuldevata), he says, pleases all the associated deities, just as harmonizing the five M’s ensures success in business.
In business terms, the 5 M’s are:
1. Material (Earth) – The raw materials essential for production
2. Money (Water) – Capital, which serves as the financial energy of any business
3. Manpower (Fire) – The skill and dedication of the workforce
4. Machine (Air) – Technology and process adaptation as per evolving times
5. Market (Space) – Choosing and expanding into the right markets
Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai has personally experienced that maintaining the right balance among these 5 M’s leads to definite success in business. To help other entrepreneurs benefit from this insight, he has been conducting satsangs (spiritual discourses) for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs on the topic of “Business Growth Through Spiritual Practice”, under the guidance of Sachchidananda Parabrahman (Dr) Athavale.
With a vision to nurture capable entrepreneurs for the nation, Dr. Prabhudesai has delivered lectures in various locations including Mapusa, Ponda, and Panaji in Goa, as well as Kudal, Malvan, Ratnagiri, and Dapoli in the Konkan region. An upcoming lecture is also scheduled in Devgad. A staunch supporter of Hindutva, Ravindraji is now formally recognized as Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai. Reflecting on his spiritual journey, he shares with gratitude: “After conducting three satsangs in Konkan, I returned home and learned that Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth had conferred upon me the honorary D.Litt. degree. Once again, I deeply felt the divine truth — that with the grace of the Guru, God is always by our side.”
4. ‘Cow Culture is the Identity of the Nation’, and the Cow is the Pride of Sanatan Dharma!
Cow rearing (Gopalan), cow protection (Goraksha), and cow-based products (Go-utpadan) are deeply cherished by Dr. Ravindra Prabhudesai. With a spirit of selfless service, he is committed to the care and protection of cows. With the same dedication, he now serves as the Honourable President of the ‘Goseva Samvardhan Nyas’, an organization established under the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.
During a severe drought in Marathwada a few years ago, there was an urgent need to set up fodder camps for cattle. At that time, a humble cow caretaker wrote to Dr. Prabhudesai seeking help. Without delay, he immediately transferred the necessary funds directly to the caretaker’s account.
He began his cow service journey on the guidance of the late Paratpar Guru Dr. Pande Maharaj of the Sanatan Sanstha’s Panvel Ashram. Recognizing the spiritual and health benefits of cows, he went on to establish gaushalas (cow shelters) in Anagaon, Talavade, and Dapoli, where he now takes care of 68 cows.
This marks a significant contribution to the noble cause of cow service. From cow dung, he developed the ‘Pitambari Gomay Organic Fertilizer’; from cow urine, he created the ‘Pitambari Gomutra Plus Capsules’, known for their medicinal properties; and the ‘Pitambari Gopiyush Tablets’, which boost immunity. He is also working on other Panchagavya-based (five sacred cow-derived substances) products and playing a key role in the preservation of indigenous cow breeds.
In the near future, he is determined to conduct in-depth research on Indian cow breeds.
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