Oburoi... Indian entrepreneur who introduced 'Subhan' to the world

- His visit to Kuwait turned into a permanent stay after his father’s health deteriorated

- He assumed responsibility early on and revealed his vision for leveraging commerce and technology to solve real-world challenges

- His small shop evolved into a thriving wholesale company, before he entered the food manufacturing sector by establishing a production facility

- From Sabah, “KITCO Rings” emerged as the first product of its kind in the local and regional market

- Over six decades, and in partnership with the Al-Wazan family, Oburoy developed “KITCO” into Mizan Holding Group

- Alongside his economic achievements, Oburoy was known for his dedication to supporting charitable initiatives

For many who came to Kuwait to work, the country represented a land of opportunities and challenges, where cultures meet and dreams take shape. Here, success is measured not only by what is achieved, but also by what inspires.

In this benevolent land that embraced the ambitions of thousands, the star of a man who began his journey in a small shop in one of the neighborhoods rose to become one of the most prominent brands in the Gulf’s food industry.

The story of Indian entrepreneur Deraj Oburoy is not just that of a businessman, but an epic of passion, innovation, and boundless human generosity. From the first locally produced item reaching every household, to community initiatives that transcended crises, and from Kuwait to the world, this man left an indelible mark at every stage of his journey.

Among the success stories of expatriates in Kuwait, we open the doors to this tale, recounting the journey of a man who believed that change begins with an idea... and that true success is that which touches the lives of others.

Deraj Oburoy’s arrival in Kuwait was unexpected. He came from his native India at the age of sixteen during a school holiday, but decided to stay after his father’s health declined, taking over the family business. Thanks to the kindness of Kuwaitis and their willingness to help, Oburoy shouldered early responsibility, revealing his vision for using commerce and technology to address practical challenges—a vision that would accompany his career for decades.

From Sabah came the first product of its kind in the local and regional market: “KITCO Rings,” laying the foundation for a brand that became familiar in every home. Oburoy did not hesitate to work as a peddler on foot for years, building the market and establishing a name for the new brand.

Over six decades, and in partnership with the Al-Wazan family, Oburoy contributed to developing KITCO into Mizan Holding Group, where he still serves on its board of directors.

Today, “Mizan” is among the largest industrial entities in the Gulf, offering a wide range of food products such as chips, biscuits, cakes, beverages, and consumer goods. Its factories are located in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with plans for future expansion.

Oburoy’s activities were not limited to the region; since 1990, he has established numerous industrial, commercial, and real estate projects in the United States, affirming his global presence in the business world.

Alongside his economic achievements, Oburoy was known for his dedication to supporting charitable initiatives, particularly in education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

In 2001, he became the first chairman of the Indian Business Council in Kuwait, which later evolved into the Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC), under the patronage of the Indian Ambassador, to promote trade and investment between Kuwait and India. During the coronavirus pandemic, he played a pivotal role in the support team for the Indian community, operating under the supervision of the embassy. He contributed to securing essential aid during lockdowns and supported the shipment of oxygen to India during its health crisis.

He sees the family as his true source of strength and is keen on spending time with them. His children, meanwhile, have inherited his innovative spirit, while remaining steadfast in the values of integrity and generosity that have long formed the foundation of the family’s legacy.