Gayatri S
Introduction: A Sweet Beginning in Juhu
In the heart of Mumbai’s Juhu, a neighborhood synonymous with Bollywood royalty, a quiet revolution in India‘s dessert culture was taking shape. While stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Hema Malini, and Shatrughan Sinha drew crowds with their glamour, one man—Raghunandan Srinivas Kamath—was captivating hearts with something even sweeter: handcrafted, fruit-filled ice creams.
Kamath‘s vision was simple yet groundbreaking—to create ice creams using real fruit pulp, milk, and sugar, without artificial flavors or preservatives. This commitment to purity and taste laid the foundation for what would become Naturals Ice Cream, a brand now valued at over Rs 300 crore.
Why Juhu? The Strategic Choice Behind Naturals’ First Outlet
When Kamath decided to launch his first ice cream parlour in 1984, he knew location was key. He strategically chose Juhu, a vibrant suburb home to Bollywood’s biggest stars. His reasoning? Celebrity presence would naturally attract foot traffic and curious customers.
In a 2015 interview, Kamath revealed his thought process: “Celebrities including Amitabh Bachchan, Shatrughan Sinha, and Hema Malini stayed in the area. I thought they’d draw more crowds.”
This decision proved to be a masterstroke. Fans and visitors flocked to Juhu, hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars—and in the process, they discovered Naturals Ice Cream.
The First Outlet: A Modest Start with a Big Dream
Kamath launched Naturals Ice Cream with an initial investment of Rs 3.5 lakh, a 200 sq. ft. shop, and just six staff members. The menu featured 12 unique flavors, including:
- Sitaphal (Custard Apple)
- Tender Coconut
- Jackfruit
- Muskmelon
- Kala Jamun
These flavors were unheard of in commercial ice creams at the time, setting Naturals apart from competitors. Kamath relied on word-of-mouth marketing, believing that a great product would speak for itself—and it did.
Naturals’ Rise to a Rs 300 Crore Empire
Over the years, Naturals expanded its menu to include over 20 flavors, including bold options like Gajar Halwa, Tilgul, Cucumber, and Prasadam. The brand’s commitment to natural ingredients and traditional recipes won over millions of customers.
Today, Naturals Ice Cream boasts:
- 165+ outlets across 15 states in India
- International recognition for its Tender Coconut flavor
- Innovative vending machines offering 24/7 ice cream access
Kamath‘s vision of blending tradition with innovation continues to drive Naturals forward.
Legacy of a Visionary Entrepreneur
Raghunandan Kamath passed away in 2024 at the age of 75, leaving behind not just a successful business but a legacy of taste, trust, and tenacity. His journey—from a small shop in Juhu to a nationwide brand adored by millions—is a testament to what can be built from a simple idea, pure ingredients, and an unshakable dream.
Conclusion: A Story of Sweet Success
Naturals Ice Cream’s journey from a small shop near Bollywood stars’ homes to a Rs 300 crore empire is a testament to vision, strategy, and unwavering commitment to quality. Choosing Juhu as the launch location was a brilliant decision—it leveraged the allure of celebrities, attracted high foot traffic, and built an early loyal customer base.
However, what truly propelled Naturals to nationwide fame was its dedication to using real fruit, minimal ingredients, and handcrafted techniques—qualities that stood out in a market dominated by artificial flavors. From a humble 200 sq. ft. shop, the brand has expanded to over 165 outlets across India, proving that a great product coupled with smart business decisions can redefine an entire industry
Beyond business success, Naturals Ice Cream holds a special place in India’s culinary heritage. It has not only introduced Indians to flavors that celebrate traditional and seasonal fruits but also inspired a wave of natural and artisanal ice cream brands.
Even after the passing of its founder, Raghunandan Kamath, in 2024, the brand remains a symbol of authenticity, nostalgia, and innovation. It continues to evolve, offering new flavors, expanding locations, and embracing modern retail trends, all while preserving the essence of what made it beloved in the first place.
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