We all have brands we grew up with and still use every day. Because they are so common in Indian homes, we often believe they are Indian, but some of these brands are actually from other countries. From soap and snacks to pens and TV channels, 10 well-known names may surprise you. These brands feel local, but their roots are far from India.
Brands That Aren’t Indian
Bata
Bata shoes are everywhere in India, but the brand is not Indian. It was started in 1894 in what is now the Czech Republic. Today, the company is based in Switzerland.
Colgate
Many Indians use Colgate toothpaste every day, but it is an American brand. It is owned by Colgate-Palmolive, a company from the United States.
Bose
Bose makes popular speakers and headphones. The name sounds Indian, but the company is American. It was started by Amar Bose, an Indian-American engineer.
Boost
Boost is a well-known health drink in India, but it’s not an Indian brand. It is owned by Hindustan Unilever and has roots in Switzerland.
Maggi
Almost every Indian loves Maggi noodles, but they are not Indian. Maggi is owned by Nestlé, a Swiss company.
Lifebuoy
Lifebuoy soap is trusted by many Indian families, but it started in England in 1895. It is now owned by Unilever.
Nestlé
Nestlé makes Maggi, KitKat, and more. Many think it’s Indian, but it’s a company from Switzerland.
Tide
Tide detergent is found in many Indian homes. It is made by Procter & Gamble (P&G), an American company.
Star TV
Star TV is popular in India, but it started as a project by an American company called 21st Century Fox.
Reynolds
Reynolds pens are used by students across India, but the brand began in the United States in 1945.
