Jaipur | Rajshree Upadhyaya | Zomawii Khiangte and Phillipe Rodrigue established their identity by launching Local All Natural Soda, a premium Indian craft beverage brand, in December 2021. They set out to build a business that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of Northeast India while creating sustainable opportunities for local farmers.
Operating under Tui Bon Natural Private Limited, they launched Local All Natural Soda in Mizoram with the belief that India’s indigenous fruits and traditional ingredients deserved a place in the premium beverage market. Instead of competing directly with conventional soft drinks, the founders focused on authenticity, clean ingredients, and regional sourcing. This approach helped create a distinctive brand that eventually became the first startup from Mizoram to be featured on Shark Tank India. Before launching the brand, the founders had experimented with another venture called Local Beer. However, changing regulations made it difficult to continue that business, forcing them to rethink their entrepreneurial journey. Rather than giving up on their vision, they recognized the growing demand for healthier premium beverages and successfully pivoted their business model.
Zomawii, who returned to Mizoram after completing his education in the United States, partnered with award-winning brewer Phillipe Rodrigue to create beverages that showcase the region’s natural ingredients while supporting local farming communities. Their mission extended beyond selling drinks-they aimed to build a brand rooted in sustainability, transparency, and regional pride. Today, Local All Natural Soda is known for its all-natural craft sodas, farm-to-bottle beverages, low-sugar carbonated drinks, and premium beverages made from indigenous fruits and spices. The company works directly with farmers across Northeast India, sourcing fresh produce that is transformed into signature flavors such as Pomelo, Ginger Ale, Mandarin Orange, and other seasonal varieties.
Established as a Healthy Alternative in the Premium Beverage Segment
By avoiding artificial preservatives and relying on real fruit juices, the brand has positioned itself as a healthier alternative in India’s rapidly growing premium beverage segment. Every bottle represents not only a refreshing drink but also a commitment to supporting local agriculture and showcasing the unique flavors of Northeast India. The founders presented this vision on Shark Tank India Season 5, Episode 27, where they sought an investment of Rs. 50 lakh for 2% equity. Their pitch stood out because it combined commercial ambition with a strong social purpose, demonstrating how the business creates value for both consumers and farming communities. The Sharks appreciated the product quality, authentic flavors, and the founders’ passion. However, they raised concerns regarding pricing, distribution, scalability, and valuation. Shark Mohit Yadav ultimately offered Rs. 1 crore for a significantly higher equity stake, initially proposing 33% equity before reducing it to 25%. After careful consideration, the founders declined the offer, believing that the level of equity dilution did not align with their long-term vision. Although they left the show without securing a deal, they gained nationwide recognition for their brand.
Expanded Presence in Premium Retail and Hospitality Markets
The exposure from Shark Tank India proved highly beneficial, introducing Local All Natural Soda to consumers across the country and strengthening awareness of the brand’s mission.
The company continues to grow successfully by selling its products through its official channels while expanding its presence across premium retail outlets and the hospitality sector.
Its journey demonstrates that a business can create significant commercial opportunities without compromising its core values. From a small venture in Mizoram to a nationally recognized craft beverage brand, Local All Natural Soda has shown that combining local ingredients, responsible sourcing, and entrepreneurial resilience can help build a distinctive identity in one of India’s most competitive consumer markets. The company’s continued operations and growing visibility illustrate how a purpose-driven idea can evolve into a sustainable business while bringing the unique flavors of Northeast India to a much wider audience.
