In 1837, scientist Henry Rogers started aerated water company Rogers in Byculla as a healthier option of clean, carbonated water over Mumbai’s well water. The set-up, probably West India’s first cold drink and aerated water factory, became popular among the British settlers. Ownership changed hands over centuries. It was last owned by Dinshawji Cooverji Pandole who also owned Dukes in 1889; until it was sold to PepsiCo in 1994.

In 2012, when Dhaval Chheda, a third-generation FMCG distributor, got the opportunity to take over the brand, he decided to revive its flavourful nostalgia. He re-released it into the market in 2014-15, and has since built it back on its feet. In the last seven months, the brand has undergone a complete face lift — new branding, eight flavours — Jeera, Masala Soda, Ice Cream, Raspberry, Orange, Lemon, Ginger, Ginger Ale, along with Tonic Water and Club Soda — and a fresh strategy to take it to the masses.

Dhaval Chheda at his office in Vile Parle. Pics/Satej Shinde