The story of Wai Wai begins in Nepal, where Chaudhary Group (CG), the country's largest multinational conglomerate, launched it in 1972. The brand was the brainchild of Binod Chaudhary, Nepal’s first billionaire, who saw an opportunity to bring ready-to-eat instant noodles to the market.

How Wai Wai Started

In the early 1970s, instant noodles were not common in Nepal. The Chaudhary Group partnered with Thailand’s Thai Preserved Food Factory Co. Ltd. to bring Wai Wai to the market. Unlike other instant noodles that require boiling, Wai Wai was unique because it could be eaten straight from the packet, boiled, or stir-fried—a key selling point that made it extremely popular.

Who Is Binod Chaudhary?

Binod Chaudhary was born in Kathmandu in a Marwari family. His grandfather came to India, started textile business and achieved good success in it. Later his father took over the business and expanded it into manufacturing and other sectors. Notably, Chaudhary was a big fan of Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan. He also learned a lot from JRD Tata.

Biggest Success Story

The biggest success story of Binod Chaudhary starts from Wai Wai instant noodles. When he visited Thailand, he saw the craze for instant noodles among the people. There, he decided to start this business in Nepal. After returning back to Nepal, he launched his brand named - Wai Wai Noodles.

In the early 1970s, instant noodles were not common in Nepal. The Chaudhary Group (CG) partnered with Thailand’s Thai Preserved Food Factory Co. Ltd. to bring Wai Wai to the market. Unlike other instant noodles that require boiling, Wai Wai was unique because it could be eaten straight from the packet, boiled, or stir-fried—a key selling point that made it extremely popular.

The instant noodle was instantly liked by the people of Nepal and became the favourite noodle of every household.

Growth & Expansion

Wai Wai quickly became a staple in Nepal, thanks to its affordability, unique seasoning, and convenience. By the 1990s, it had expanded to India, Bhutan, and other South Asian markets. In India, it faced competition from Maggi but carved a niche, especially in the northeastern states, where it became the dominant brand.

Global Success

By the 2000s, Wai Wai had entered over 50 countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Middle Eastern markets. CG set up production plants in India (Rajasthan, Assam, Uttarakhand, Gujarat), Serbia, Bangladesh, and Egypt to meet growing demand.

Today, Wai Wai is not just a noodle brand but a cultural icon, especially in Nepal and India. Binod Chaudhary’s success with Wai Wai played a huge role in making him Nepal’s first billionaire. The brand remains a major competitor in the instant noodle market, known for its crispy noodles, unique flavors, and ability to be eaten in multiple ways.

@iQOO Connect