Pakola

Pakola is more than just a beverage; it is a cultural institution and the unofficial national soft drink of Pakistan. Born from the vision of Haji Ali Mohammad of the Teli family, who migrated from India in 1947, the drink was crafted to reflect the true taste and identity of the newly formed nation . Launched on 14 August 1950 at a Pakistan Air Force base ceremony attended by the first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan, its very name—a blend of “Pakistan” and “Cola”—signaled its patriotic mission . The original, iconic bright green Pakola is an ice-cream soda with a uniquely sweet, creamy flavor profile inspired by the syrups once sold by pushcart vendors . In the 1960s, its popularity soared when it was mixed with chilled milk and served at communal iftars during Ramadan, a tradition that remains beloved today .

From its inception at Pakistan Beverages Limited in Karachi, Pakola has expanded into a range of beloved flavors, including Lychee, Raspberry, Orange, and Fresh Lime . Now primarily produced by Mehran Bottlers, it survived challenges like the 2013 capacity tax that ended its glass bottle era, pivoting successfully to PET bottles and cans . Today, it holds the distinction of being the only Pakistani carbonated beverage exported globally, quenching the nostalgia of the diaspora in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the Middle East .

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