By: Staff Writer
December 02, Colombo (LNW): Former Sri Lankan cricket legend and world-record holder Muttiah Muralitharan is stepping into the business arena with a groundbreaking investment in India.
Known for his unmatched skills as an ace spinner, Muralitharan is now expanding his entrepreneurial ventures by establishing a beverages and confectionery unit in Karnataka, India.
This bold move aims to shake up the Indian soft drink market and challenge long-established global players like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.
A Dynamic Partnership with Mukesh Ambani
Muralitharan’s ambitious project is bolstered by his collaboration with Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries and one of India’s most influential billionaires.
The two visionaries have joined forces to revive Campa Cola, an iconic Indian soft drink brand that Ambani recently relaunched, signaling a major disruption in the market.
Their new enterprise, Muttiah Beverages and Confectioneries, plans to invest a whopping Rs 1,400 crore, with production expected to begin by January 2025 at a newly established facility in Badanakuppe, Chamarajanagara district, Karnataka.
Transforming the Indian Beverage Market
This partnership is expected to redefine competition in India’s beverage industry. Leveraging Muralitharan’s business acumen and Ambani’s industrial expertise, the venture will reintroduce Campa Cola products to consumers with a modern twist, positioning the brand as a formidable competitor in the market.
Major Investment and Economic Impact
Originally planned with an investment of Rs 230 crore, the project has expanded significantly, with the budget revised to Rs 1,000 crore and further increased to Rs 1,400 crore to accommodate its growing scale.
Announced by Karnataka’s Large and Medium Industries Minister MB Patil, this initiative aims to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and boost the regional economy. A 46-acre plot of land has already been allocated for the facility, with officials addressing minor concerns to expedite the project.
A Diversified Career Path
Muttiah Muralitharan, who holds the record for the highest number of wickets in Test cricket, is now diversifying his portfolio into the food and beverage sector. This new venture reflects his strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit, marking a significant chapter in his post-cricket career.
With its large-scale investment, strategic collaboration, and ambitious vision, this project is set to disrupt the Indian beverage market and cement Muralitharan’s legacy not only on the cricket field but also in the business world.
