On Sunday, Mumbai said goodbye to Asha ‘Ashaben’ Jhaveri, the graceful force behind Swati Snacks, one of the city’s most iconic dining institutions. Jhaveri, 79, passed away early Sunday morning at Breach Candy Hospital after a prolonged illness and was cremated at Worli later that day.

After her mother’s passing in 1979, Jhaveri stepped into the family business with no professional training — just quiet determination and instinct. Over the years, she streamlined operations and refreshed the menu, all while preserving the comforting spirit that defined Swati Snacks. Her eye for detail was unmatched — she personally vetted ingredients, modernised the kitchen, and ensured that every plate stayed true to its roots. Under her care, a modest chaat stall grew into a Mumbai institution cherished across generations.

Rahul Limaye of Gypsy Corner, Shivaji Park, reflects, “I’m proud of her. Unlike me, who entered a male-dominated industry with relative ease, she carved her place the hard way and built a name that reached far beyond Mumbai. She inspired me to serve Maharashtrian specialities at Gypsy Corner. Like her name, Asha, she gave hope to countless young entrepreneurs, especially women, to dream and thrive. Back in the late 1970s, Swati was a modest spot known for sitaphal ice cream and a few chaat dishes. My wife and I often went there while dating. It was our place. It won’t feel the same anymore. She cared deeply for her team, and that speaks volumes about the person she was.”