Swadeshi forever: How pre Independence-era cosmetics like Boroline are still going strong
Some of the beauty and skincare brands we’ve grown up using, have been around for over 90 years!
Not many would know that some of our most loved beauty products have been around for decades and came into existence in the pre-Independence era. With a strong brand identity, these cosmetics are still sworn by, given how most of us grew up using them.
The Rise of Swadeshi Brands like Dabur and Boroline
The Swadeshi movement was a big reason for the birth of such brands. Not just about political resistance, it was also an economic revolution that motivated Indian entrepreneurs to break free from British economic dominance. Thus, they established several indigenous brands to challenge foreign goods.
One such iconic brand was Boroline, a household name in India today. Alongside Boroline, brands like Dabur and Himalaya emerged as symbols of self-reliance and national pride. But how did these brands come up, which others joined the fight against the British Raj, and what relevance do they hold in today’s economy? Let’s explore.
One of the most iconic products of the Swadeshi movement, Boroline, was launched in 1929 by Gour Mohun Dutta, a Bengali entrepreneur. At a time when British-manufactured cosmetics and medicinal products dominated the Indian market, Dutta introduced Boroline as an indigenous antiseptic cream, named after its two key components, ‘Boro’ (boric acid) and ‘oline’ (from lanoline, a moisturizing ingredient). The green packaging and elephant logo symbolized strength, reliability, and an enduring Indian spirit.
Boroline quickly became popular as a multi-purpose cream used for cuts, wounds, cracked heels, and dry skin. It represented not just a cosmetic or medicinal product but an act of resistance against British rule. Indians, eager to support homegrown products, embraced Boroline, making it a staple in households for generations.
Other Swadeshi Brands That Challenged British Monopoly
Boroline wasn’t alone in this fight. Several other brands emerged during and after the Swadeshi movement to challenge British economic control:
Tata Group (1868)
Although founded before the Swadeshi movement, Tata became a key player in India’s self-reliance efforts. Jamsetji Tata established India’s first steel plant, Tata Steel, in 1907, as an alternative to British-controlled industries.
Godrej (1897)
Ardeshir Godrej introduced the first Indian-made locks and later expanded into soaps, furniture, and other consumer goods. His soap, made without animal fat, was particularly well-received by the Indian population, including Mahatma Gandhi.
Amrutanjan (1893)
This pain balm was introduced by Kasinathuni Nageswara Rao in the late 19th century as an alternative to foreign medicinal products. It remains a trusted remedy for headaches and muscle pain.
Hamdard (1906)
Hamdard’s Unani medicinal products, including the famous Rooh Afza, were promoted as Indian alternatives to British-imported health tonics.
Mysore Sandal Soap (1916)
Established by the Maharaja of Mysore, this soap was crafted using pure sandalwood oil, offering a Swadeshi alternative to British soaps like Lux and Pears.
Bengal Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals (1901)
Founded by scientist Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, this company produced indigenous chemicals and pharmaceuticals to reduce reliance on British imports.
Wagh Bakri Tea (1915)
A tea company that aimed to promote Indian-grown tea over British-controlled plantations.
The Relevance of Swadeshi Brands in Modern India
Many of these brands still thrive, proving that their relevance was not limited to the independence movement. In fact, the Indian government’s recent push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat echoes the Swadeshi movement’s principles. So, many Indian brands remain relevant as Indians increasingly prefer locally made products over foreign brands. But how have brands like Boroline, Amrutanjan, and Mysore Sandal Soap stood the test of time and maintained multi-generational trust?
For one, many of these brands have modernized their product lines to cater to changing consumer preferences. For example:
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Boroline has introduced Boroline Ultra Smooth, adapting to modern skincare needs.
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Godrej and Tata have expanded into international markets, offering everything from home appliances to luxury cars.
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Hamdard’s Rooh Afza is now a global drink, loved by people across South Asia and the Middle East.
The success of these legacy brands serves as an inspiration for new Indian startups in sectors like Ayurveda, organic beauty, and sustainable products. Companies like Patanjali, Mamaearth, and Fabindia are carrying forward the Swadeshi spirit by promoting natural and Indian-made goods.
A Legacy That Lives On
The Swadeshi brands that emerged during British rule were more than just businesses, they were statements of defiance, symbols of national pride, and catalysts for economic self-reliance. Over a century later, these brands continue to be relevant, proving their quality, trust, and deep connection with Indian consumers.
As India moves forward in the 21st century, the lessons from these Swadeshi brands remain valuable. The push for self-sufficiency, indigenous manufacturing, and pride in local products is not just historical nostalgia but a future-oriented economic strategy. Whether it is Boroline in our medicine cabinets or Tata leading global industries, the legacy of Swadeshi brands continues to shape India’s economic landscape.
The fight against British rule may have ended, but the mission of self-reliance and economic empowerment lives on.
Image courtesy:
Canva
AI-generated via MidJourney
Dabur.com
Boroline.com
Himalaya.com
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