In the heart of the Godavari delta, long before global giants like Coca-Cola or Pepsi landed on Indian soil, a local legend was born. For over a century, Artos has been more than just a soft drink; it’s an emotion, a tradition, and a symbol of Telugu resilience.
A Bold Beginning (1912–1919)
The story began in 1912 when Adduri Ramachandra Raju purchased a soda machine from a British collector. Initially baffled by the machine, he traveled to the Visakhapatnam port, where sailors helped him fix it and taught him the art of carbonation.
In its early days, locals were hesitant, fearing the "gas" in the bottle was a "devil’s brew." However, after seeing British soldiers enjoy the drink, the locals followed suit. By 1919, the brand was officially established, and the "Goli Soda" era evolved into the iconic Artos brand we know today.
The Survivor of World War II
When World War II disrupted global trade, most Indian beverage companies shut down because they couldn't import flavors from Europe. Artos refused to quit. Instead of relying on imports, they innovated by using natural fruit extracts from local produce like grapes and lemons. This pivot didn't just save the company—it created the unique, authentic taste that has kept fans hooked for generations.
A Taste That Defines a Region
While the world moved to plastic and mass production, Artos remained loyal to its roots. Even today, its Grape flavor is legendary. It is widely considered a "must-try" for anyone visiting East Godavari. The brand has survived the "Cola Wars" by maintaining a loyal fan base and offering a premium, nostalgic taste at an affordable price.
Why We Are Proud of Artos
Andhra’s First: The first aerated drink in the state.
Resilient Roots: A 100+ year legacy that survived wars and MNC competition.
Purely Indian: A homegrown brand that represents the entrepreneurial spirit of the Godavari districts.
A Legacy in Every Sip
As we look toward a future dominated by global conglomerates, Artos stands as a shining testament to the power of local entrepreneurship and cultural identity. It isn’t just a beverage; it is a story of grit that began with a single soda machine and survived a World War and a century of competition.
For the people of the Godavari districts, the distinct pop of an Artos bottle is the sound of home. It represents a "Made in Andhra" success story that proves quality and heritage can outlast any marketing trend. Whether you are a local reliving childhood memories or a traveler seeking the authentic taste of the Telugu land, a chilled bottle of Artos Grape is more than a refreshment—it is a sip of history.
Next time you find yourself in the lush lanes of Coastal Andhra, don’t just reach for a generic soda. Reach for a bottle of Artos, support a homegrown legacy, and taste the liquid pride of Andhra Pradesh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where did Artos originate?
Artos originated in Ramachandrapuram, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, in 1912.
2. What are the popular flavors of Artos?
The most famous flavor is Grape. Other popular variants include Orange, Lemon, Lemon Salt Soda (Nimma Soda), and GinJeera.
3. Is Artos available outside of Andhra Pradesh?
Currently, Artos has a strong presence in East Godavari, West Godavari, and Visakhapatnam. While it is expanding, it remains a regional specialty of the Coastal Andhra region.
4. Who founded Artos?
It was founded by Adduri Ramachandra Raju and his brother Adduri Jagannadha Raju.
This video provides a visual journey through the century-long history and cultural impact of Artos in the Godavari region.
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