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In the early 1970s, Kathmandu was introduced to its first exclusive nightclub, Copper Floor, in the upscale Lazimpat neighborhood. Founded by a young, ambitious entrepreneur, this bold venture defied societal norms, especially for a member of Nepal’s conservative Marwari community. With imported disco lights and an atmosphere Kathmandu had never seen, Copper Floor became the hotspot for Nepal’s elite, including diplomats and royal family members. The nightclub wasn’t just about nightlife; it was a training ground for business, branding, and resilience—skills that would later fuel the success of brands like Wai Wai instant noodles.
The young entrepreneur behind Copper Floor soon realized his ambitions stretched beyond nightlife. Spotting an opportunity in the instant noodle market, he launched Wai Wai, which quickly became a household name in Nepal and India. Despite the logistical challenges of distributing noodles in rugged terrains, Wai Wai achieved global success, symbolizing Nepal’s potential in the global business arena.
This relentless drive led to the establishment of CG Corp Global, Nepal’s first multinational conglomerate with ventures spanning hospitality, finance, real estate, and education across Asia and Africa. The journey from a Kathmandu nightclub to a billion-dollar empire exemplifies the power of vision, resilience, and a “Himalayan hustle.” Making It Big, a new memoir, recounts this inspiring story, offering readers lessons in courage, adaptability, and staying true to one’s roots.