KATHMANDU, Dec 23: Originating as Laxmi Mithai Bhandar, a sweets shop, in 1973, Laxmi Group is celebrating its 50th year as a versatile and thriving entity in the market this year. Over the past five decades, the group has expanded its presence in automotive trading (dealing with both passenger and commercial vehicles, along with auto components), manufacturing (producing steel, paper, plastic, and confectionery items), and the sporting industry.