Purnian: Premium Makhana Packaging Design Inspired by Madhubani art of Bihar
Packaging design for a FMCG brand that wants to put Purnia & Bihar on the global map
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Makhana has become one of India's fastest-growing healthy snack categories. While many brands focus on nutritional benefits and modern snacking trends, few tell the story of where makhana comes from.
Purnian wanted to change that.
Named after Purnia, Bihar—the founder's hometown and one of India's most important makhana-producing regions—the brand was built around a strong sense of place. The region's connection to makhana is so significant that Bihar has received a GI tag for the product, making it an important part of the state's agricultural heritage.
The challenge was to create premium makhana packaging design that felt modern and export-ready while remaining rooted in the culture and identity of Bihar.
PROJECT TYPE
Packaging Design
YEAR
2026
TIMELINE
<3 weeks
OUR SOLUTION
Suramya focused on the story. The packaging design draws inspiration from Madhubani art, one of Bihar's most recognised art styles.
Instead of recreating traditional artwork directly, we developed a subtle illustration system and border elements inspired by Madhubani borders, helping the packaging feel distinctly Indian while maintaining a premium aesthetic.
We also incorporated lotus-inspired elements throughout the design system as a reference to the natural environment where makhana is cultivated. These details helped connect the packaging back to the product's origin without overwhelming the overall visual identity.
An additional challenge was the printing process. The packaging had to be produced using only four colours, requiring every design decision to work within strict production constraints. By carefully balancing illustration, typography, and colour, we created a system that delivered strong visual impact while remaining production-friendly.
THE RESULTED IMPACT
By embracing regional inspiration and celebrating the origins of makhana, the packaging creates a sense of authenticity that helps distinguish the brand from competitors. The result feels contemporary and export-ready while retaining a strong connection to Indian culture.
More importantly, the packaging helps tell the story Purnian set out to share—one that celebrates the people, culture, and region behind one of India's most iconic superfoods.
Here is what the client had to say on google:
"I recently worked with Dishi and her team, and they delivered amazing work. I absolutely loved all my designs—I couldn’t ask for anything better. They’re prompt and always just a call or message away. Special thanks to Shaukeen!
Thank you Dishi for everything 😊"
-Pritu R.
Suramya's Impact On Hestia
Suramya helped Hestia update and rebrand their packaging range for kid's oral supplements in various natural flavours.
Before Suramya
ⓧ Required a story
ⓧ Lacked a unique packaging to stand out
With Suramya
✓ Tells the brand's story and put purnia on the map
✓ Unique to the brand
ⓧ Wasn't export ready
✓ Export-ready packaging within the constraints
