Goli soda’s second wind: a nostalgic return for India’s iconic beverage

Goli Soda’s resurgence is fuelled by nostalgia, a growing consumer preference for unique tastes, and the rise of local brands prioritizing hygiene and quality

The clink of glass marbles against bottles, a burst of citrusy fizz, and a childhood memory comes flooding back. Goli soda, the iconic Indian beverage, is returning across major cities. 

Also known as banta soda in North India, it is a drink made with carbonated water, flavoured syrup, and sometimes a hint of salt. The magic lies in its unique bottling method. Unlike regular soda bottles, goli soda comes in a Codd-neck bottle with a marble stopper. To access the drink, you press the marble into the neck, releasing the pressure to create a satisfying fizz. 

Since the mid-20th Century, goli soda has held a special place in Indian beverage culture for decades. However, the rise of mass-produced aerated drinks eventually led to goli soda’s decline. “Large companies came in with standardised designs and universal flavours,” says Abdul Khader, co-founder of Spark Goli Soda, a Hyderabad-based brand. “They offered a taste people were familiar with, and goli soda, with its regional variations, kind of faded away.”

Fast forward to the past five years, and Goli Soda is experiencing a delightful comeback. 

According to Abdul, there are now about 700 goli soda brands (including hyperlocal ones) in India. Social media has played a crucial role in the drink’s second wind, with eye-catching photos and videos sparking interest among younger generations, many unfamiliar with the drink. “There’s a definite nostalgia factor,” says Raghuraman Gobinathan, co-founder of Kaalaiyan Goli Soda in Coimbatore.

But he believes the resurgence goes beyond just fond memories. Cultural identity is a factor, too. “The Jallikattu protests in 2017 definitely played a role in the growth of our brand,” he says. “There was this anti-MNC sentiment in Tamil Nadu, and people were looking for alternatives to the colas of big brands. Goli soda, a traditional South Indian beverage, fit the bill perfectly.”

Goli Soda also offers a distinct taste profile, often featuring local ingredients. “We focus on ‘desi’ flavours like pudina (mint) and jeera (cumin),” says Abdul. “These resonate with people and perfectly complement Indian cuisine like biryani. It’s a return to familiar, authentic tastes.”