Swadeshi, translating to ‘of our own country,’ stands as an early advocate for the importance of domestically originated products. Its significance resonates deeply, tracing back to the national independence movement when Indians rallied behind boycotting foreign goods to bolster local industries.
Among the array of companies birthed during India’s infancy are stalwarts such as Allahabad Bank, founded in 1865 as the oldest joint-stock bank, alongside others like the Tata Group (1869), Parle G (1929), Godrej (1897), Dabur (1884), and Vadilal (1907). Many of these enterprises have since expanded globally, with Made in India products transcending borders to become international staples.
Several of these Indian brands now command the international stage with their exceptional offerings, challenging the dominance of Westernization. Despite being mistakenly perceived as foreign, these brands proudly tout their Indian heritage.
Post-1950s, initiatives aimed at stimulating India’s market demand and supply gained momentum. Notably, Jawaharlal Nehru’s concern over the burgeoning demand for foreign cosmetics among Indian women led to the inception of Lakme through collaboration with Simone Tata and JRD Tata.
A resolute attitude is integral to maintaining a top-tier position amidst a sea of national and international competitors. Interestingly, some brands, once owned by foreign entities, have transitioned into Indian ownership, explaining their European nomenclature. Today, these businesses are well-established, vying for dominance in the market.
The following is an examination of the premier Made in India brands flourishing on the global stage:
The Royal Enfield
In 1893, a British company called Royal Enfield was born. The Enfield Cycle Company made these bikes. In 1994, something big happened. Eicher Motors, an Indian motorcycle manufacturer started in 1948, bought the company. After that, the company name changed. It went from Enfield Cycle Company to Royal Enfield. What makes Royal Enfield special? It’s famous for strong engines and a loud thump sound. These cool traits keep people coming back for more.
Van Heusen
Founded in 1889, Van Heusen India was first called Phillips Van Heusen Corporation. It’s part of PVH Corp now. John Manning Van Heusen, a Dutch newcomer, is its namesake. Now, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited runs the show. Known for high standards, Van Heusen hit the billion-dollar mark early, making it a big player in fashion.
Old Monk
Old Monk, a dark rum brand founded in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, in 1954 under Mohan Meakin Limited, enjoys global recognition despite minimal advertising, emerging as India’s premier liquor brand.
Allen Solly
Founded in 1744 by William Holin and Company Limited, Allen Solly was picked up by Madura Garments in 1993. It saw a shift in leadership to the Aditya Birla Group in 2001. This has helped it grow popular both domestically and globally. Many appreciate Allen Solly, evident by its strong web presence and loyal worldwide followers.
Flying Machine
On the other hand, Flying Machine, birthed in 1980 by Arvind Lifestyle Brand Limited, has made waves as a top denim brand in India. Italian designer Chicco guides the brand, helping Flying Machine to become a trusted source for excellent denim wear.
Masala Monk
Shashank Aggarwal, a blogger and business owner, started Masala Monk in 2018. The company is known for delicious food ingredients. Products range from pickles to grains, sauces, fruit, dips, and spice blends. Masala Monk is a well-known brand throughout India.
Peter England
Established in 1997, Peter England is famous for its shirts and unique scent. Madura Fashion and Lifestyle, an Aditya Birla Group subsidiary, owns it. The brand is popular in men’s fashion both inside and outside India’s borders.
Lakme
Known for makeup, Lakme started with the Tata Oil Mills (TOMCO), part of the Tata Group. Now under Hindustan Unilever with CEO Pushkaraj Shenai at the helm, Lakme’s name is drawn from a French opera, “Lakme.” It was named after the Hindu goddess Laxmi. Lakme has a noteworthy history and a wide variety of products, making it a building block of the Indian cosmetic industry.
Louis Philippe
The company Louis Philippe, which bears the name of a French king from 1830 to 1848, is proudly Indian. Founded in 1989 by Madura Fashion and Lifestyle, it’s all about men’s clothing. The quality and skill shown in Louis Philippe’s creations have earned it wide praise.
Micromax
Started in 2000, Micromax began as a simple IT software company. It’s now a strong rival in the electronics field. It’s headquarters in Gurgaon saw it leap over heavyweight Samsung in 2014, making a firm name for itself globally.
Da Milano
In 1989, Da Milano stepped onto the stage as a leather goods exporter. It’s certainly earned its fame for bringing Italian-inspired flair to its items, despite being Indian. Since 2000, under Sahil Malik’s guidance, Da Milano has become a top-quality leather goods supplier.
France Leone
Created in 1989, France Leone focuses on men’s formal shoes. It’s currently under the command of footwear wizard Vishal Bhambri. This brand is famous for its attention to detail and Italy-inspired creations.
Jaguar
In 1922, the Swallow Sidecar Company was born, ultimately becoming known as Jaguar. Its big shift came in 2008 when Tata Motors bought Jaguar Cars and Land Rover from Ford. Under its new Indian leadership, Jaguar continues to be an esteemed car brand with global recognition.
Amrut Single Malt
Born in 1948, Amrut Single Malt hit the scene and quickly climbed the ladder to be viewed as one of the top single malts globally. Neelakanta Rao Jaggdale propelled Amrut into a worldwide whisky powerhouse in 2009, getting it a stronghold in the global market.
Hidesign
The year 1978 marked the founding of Hidesign by Dilip Kapur, a name now linked with superior leather goods. Operating from Pondicherry, Hidesign sends its expertly crafted accessories, made from Tamil Nadu imported leather, to consumers all over the world.
Munchi Polo
Munchi Polo, known for its children’s clothing, surprises many with its Indian origin, operated under Catmoss Retail Private Limited, led by Sudipt Ghosh and Ashwin Chawla.
La Opala
Started by Sushil Jhunjhunwala in 1988, La Opala is appreciated for its high-grade tableware and cutlery. Although its name hints at a French origin, La Opala is a respected Indian brand. They make and sell premium items.
Café Coffee Day
Everyone knows Café Coffee Day, with locations spanning the globe. This beloved coffee spot, owned by Amalgamated Bean Coffee Trading Company from Chikmagalur, is famous for its friendly vibe. It first opened doors in Bangalore in 1996. From there, it grew, reaching cities like Prague, Vienna, Dubai, and Karachi. Uniquely, CCD keeps a close eye on every step, from growing coffee to making coffee machines, and even crafting their own furniture.
Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo, established in 1984 by Oswal Woolen, evolved into a leading fashion brand under the Nahar Group, synonymous with style and sophistication.
East India Company
East India Company, once an imperialist trading giant, is now owned by Sanjiv Mehta, symbolizing a shift towards luxury goods provision.
Conclusion
These Made in India brands epitomize resilience, innovation, and excellence, narrating stories of struggle and triumph. Many predate Indian independence, yet soar to new heights in the nation’s independent era. Guided by visionary leaders like JRD Tata, these brands navigate social barriers to carve a niche in the global market, embodying the spirit of Indian entrepreneurship.
Also Read: Top 5 Biggest Business Groups in India 2023 by Revenue