A few years ago, small shops and roadside eateries across India were dominated by global soda brands. Today, a homegrown challenger—Lahori Zeera—is steadily changing that landscape by bottling the taste of traditional Indian drinks and making them widely accessible.
Founded in 2017 by cousins Saurabh Munjal, Saurabh Bhutna, and Nikhil Doda, the company aimed to revive familiar regional beverages such as spiced lemonade, cumin soda, and raw mango drinks. Their approach was simple yet effective: preserve authentic flavors while packaging them in clean, convenient bottles with a modern, fizzy twist.
From Experiment to Opportunity
The journey began with small-scale experimentation. Despite having no prior experience in beverage production, the founders created a blend using black salt, cumin, and lemon juice. After testing their product with local shopkeepers, students, and commuters, they refined a formula that balanced taste, spice, and carbonation.
Starting with refurbished machinery in Punjab, the team launched with a price point of ₹10 for a 160 ml bottle—ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
A Name Rooted in Cultural Memory
The brand name draws inspiration from Lahore, reflecting the shared cultural heritage of the Punjab region across borders. The word “Zeera” (cumin) reinforces the product’s connection to traditional Indian flavors and household ingredients.
Rapid Growth with Minimal Marketing
The company has seen significant growth in recent years. Revenue rose from ₹312 crore in FY2024 to ₹540 crore in FY2025, reaching approximately ₹775 crore by FY2026. A ₹200 crore investment from Motilal Oswal Wealth valued the business at ₹2,800 crore.
Rather than relying heavily on advertising, Lahori Zeera has focused on expanding distribution, improving production capacity, and strengthening its retail presence. Its product range now includes multiple variants beyond the original cumin-based drink.
Scaling a Traditional Idea
What began as a small operation with 20 people has grown into a workforce of over 1,800 employees and contract workers. Today, the company faces strong demand, with production capacity emerging as a key challenge.
By combining nostalgia, affordability, and efficient scaling, Lahori Zeera demonstrates how traditional flavors can successfully compete with global beverage brands in India’s evolving market.