- In the early 1920s, as India was embroiled in the struggle for independence, a young man from Surat, Gujarat, set out on an ambitious mission to create a home-grown carbonated drink. His name was Abbas Rahim Hajoori, and in 1923, he embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the history of Indian beverages. What began as a small, fresh juice-based drink called Socio would, over the decades, evolve into one of the country’s most beloved carbonated drinks — Sosyo.Abbas Rahim Hajoori, a visionary with a passion for innovation, started his venture with the idea of offering a refreshing, local alternative to the foreign sodas that were becoming increasingly popular in India at the time. His concept was simple: create a carbonated drink that blended the flavors of fresh fruit juice with the effervescence of carbonation, but with a distinctly Indian touch. It was a drink that could compete with international sodas, yet stay true to the country’s roots and appeal to the Indian palate.Initially, Hajoori’s idea was met with skepticism. The market for soft drinks in India was largely dominated by foreign brands, and the notion of a local, indigenous drink seemed far-fetched. But Hajoori believed in his vision. He experimented with different recipes and ingredients, ultimately creating a product that not only quenched thirst but also captured the essence of Indian flavors. His creation, Socio, was an instant hit in Surat and quickly gained popularity in other parts of Gujarat.As the years went by, the success of Socio grew, and the brand became a symbol of Indian entrepreneurship. It was one of the first beverages of its kind to be produced entirely within India, at a time when the country was under British colonial rule and the economy was heavily dependent on imports. For many, Sosyo represented a sense of national pride, as it stood as a testament to India’s potential to innovate and create world-class products.Fast forward to the present day, and Sosyo has come a long way. The drink, now known as ‘Sosyo’, has become a household name across India and enjoys a strong, loyal fan base. Over the years, the brand has expanded its product range, introducing various flavors, all the while staying true to the original essence of the drink — fresh fruit juices blended with carbonation.A major turning point in the story of Sosyo occurred in 2024, when the brand entered a new phase of growth. In a landmark deal, 50 percent of the stake in the company was acquired by Reliance Retail, led by Isha Ambani, daughter of billionaire Mukesh Ambani. This acquisition was a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and its future potential. With Reliance Retail’s resources and vast distribution network, Sosyo is now poised for even greater success, reaching new markets both within India and internationally.Sosyo’s journey from a teenager’s dream to a billion-dollar brand is a story of perseverance, vision, and entrepreneurship. Abbas Rahim Hajoori’s humble beginnings in Surat have blossomed into a global success, one that serves as an inspiration for countless aspiring entrepreneurs. Today, Sosyo is not just a drink; it is a symbol of India’s entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and ability to create world-class products. As the brand continues to grow and evolve, its legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Hajoori Beverages: The Surat-Man Behind India’s First Home-Grown Carbonated Drink and Its Global Success
