Muttiah Muralitharan, the legendary Sri Lankan off-spinner and the highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history, is set to embark on a new venture as an industrialist. Renowned for his remarkable career in cricket, Muralitharan is now channeling his efforts into the business world by establishing a soft drink factory in the Badanaguppe-Kellambally industrial area of Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka.
Muralitharan, who boasts an unparalleled record of 800 Test wickets, has purchased 46 acres of land in Chamarajanagar. With all necessary government approvals in place, construction of the factory has begun. The venture, named ‘Muttiah Beverages,’ will produce a variety of beverages including soft drinks, cool drinks, and flavored milk in cans.
The project represents a substantial investment of over ₹250 crores. It is expected to provide direct employment to 500-800 locals and benefit hundreds more indirectly. Officials believe that having a globally recognized former cricketer like Muralitharan invest in the region will attract additional industries and promote economic growth.
In collaboration with Ceylon Beverage Can (Pvt) Ltd from Sri Lanka, Muralitharan has submitted and received approval for a detailed plan on soft drink production. The Karnataka government has allotted 46.30 acres of land on lease for this initiative, further solidifying the project’s foundation.
Muralitharan’s entry into Chamarajanagar’s industrial sector is part of a broader wave of development. An eco-friendly paint factory by the Birla Group is nearing completion in the area. Additionally, Roger Binny, the BCCI President and former Indian cricketer, has also invested in the region, purchasing land in Gundlupet for agricultural purposes.
