How a trip to North India changed the life of a auto driver: Tale of Sathya Shankar, net worth 800cr

Success Story: A wonderful tale of entrepreneurial energy is told on the busy streets of Bengaluru, Karnataka. It revolves around Sathya Shankar, the man behind the well-known 'Jeera Masala Soda'. The story of Shankar, from modest beginnings to his rise to prominence in the Indian beverage sector, is explored in depth in this article. Bellare hamlet, close to Puttur, is an agricultural community where Sathya Shankar hailed from. His tale is one of unwavering strength and resolve rather than inherited fortune or resources. Deeply inspired by Dhirubhai Ambani's success, Shankar started his own business as an autorickshaw driver, an unexpected choice. This endeavor—which was made possible by a government self-employment program— was only the beginning of an incredible career. 

Sathya Shankar: Early Days

Shankar demonstrated his business skills in less than a year by paying off his car loan, which is evidence of his diligence and sound financial management. Soon after, his aspirations propelled him from an autorickshaw to an ambassador car. But Shankar was not happy to be a taxi driver alone. He eventually opened a tyre store after making the switch to the car garage sector in 1987. His capacity to learn and adapt in a variety of business contexts was demonstrated by these endeavours, which also lay the groundwork for his future success. 

Concept of Jeera Soda 

Shankar's life changed in 2002 after an apparently innocent trip to North India. This is where the concept for Jeera Soda, a distinctive drink influenced by regional jeera (cumin seed) flavours, originated. Shankar, possessing an innovative vision, recognised the potential in this unique taste and launched Bindu Jeera Masala onto the market.

Significant Milestones

With a small initial investment of Rs 35 lakhs in 2001, Shankar's business, SG Corporates, saw rapid expansion. The turnover reached Rs 6 crores by 2006, and the growth trajectory kept going higher. When SG Corporates' revenue surpassed Rs 100 crore in 2010, it was a significant milestone. This accomplishment was a major turning point for the Indian beverage sector as well as a personal triumph for Shankar.

Jeera soda began a new chapter in 2015 when it expanded into foreign markets and began exporting to nations including Malaysia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Shankar's vision and entrepreneurial prowess are evident in Bindu Jeera Masala Soda, which is currently valued at an astounding Rs 800 crore.