Mysore Sandal soap goes global: KSDL launches 60 new products

Bengaluru: In a major push to transform the century-old Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL) into a global FMCG powerhouse, the government on Tuesday unveiled noted actor Tamannaah Bhatia as the brand ambassador for its iconic Mysore Sandal soap brand.

The announcement coincided with the mega launch of 60 new products across personal care and home care segments, signalling KSDL’s strategy to compete with private multinationals.

Large and Medium Industries Minister M B Patil presided over the event. KSDL chairman Appaji C S Nadagouda and managing director Prashant were among those present.  

Speaking at the launch, Tamannaah described the association as a new chapter in her 20-year career.

“Mysore Sandal is not just a soap. It is an emotion, childhood nostalgia and the truth of authenticity. I am honoured to take this heritage brand to a global audience,” she said.

Minister Patil revealed a roadmap to scale the PSU’s turnover to Rs 5,000 crore by 2030.

“We are expanding our footprint beyond south India to north India and international markets including US, UK and the Middle East,” Patil said.

He said the product portfolio had grown from 36 to 93 products under the current administration, including a new premium ‘Maharaja and Maharani’ perfume series inspired by the traditional scents of Kannauj.

The managing director reported a net profit of Rs 451 crore for the 2023-24 fiscal, a significant jump from Rs 182 crore in 2022-23.

To mark this success, KSDL handed over a special dividend of Rs 350 crore to the state government.

The new product line includes shower gels, face packs, toothpaste, hand washes and home care items like fabric conditioners and floor cleaners. The minister highlighted a premium Jasmine soap priced at Rs 400, aimed at the European market.