More than just a drink, Rooh Afza—a name that resonates with millions across South Asia—is a cultural icon, a nostalgic recollection, and a refreshing getaway from the sweltering summer heat. Rooh Afza has been soothing thirst and elevating spirits since its founding in 1906, translating to “soul refresher” in Urdu. Especially during Ramadan and hot summer days, this vivid, ruby-red syrup with its distinctive mix of herbs, fruits, and floral essences has knitted itself into the fabric of customs. While answering often asked questions like “Is drinking Rooh Afza good for health?” and “Who is the CEO of Rooh Afza?”, this page will cover the history, components, advantages, recipes, and recent advancements including Rooh Afza sugar-free.
The Legacy of Rooh Afza and Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed
Rooh Afza’s narrative starts in Old Delhi, when famous Unani doctor Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed tried to develop a herbal mix to fight heatstroke and dehydration. Blending conventional Unani treatment with cooling components to assist Delhi’s people survive the scorching summers, he created Rooh Afza in 1906. His vision was not only to refresh but also to nourish, giving rise to a drink that would become a household staple across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
After Majeed’s passing in 1922, his family carried forward his legacy through Hamdard Laboratories, a company rooted in the principles of empathy and community welfare. The partition of India in 1947 divided the company; Hakim Abdul Hameed ran it in India while Hakim Mohammad Said founded Hamdard in Pakistan. Later, a branch was given to Bangladesh following independence in 1971. Hamdard Laboratories still owns Rooh Afza today, so extending its worldwide presence while maintaining its un-patented recipe.
What is Rooh Afza Made Of? Exploring Rooh Afza Ingredients
Rooh Afza’s allure lies in its intricate composition, a harmonious blend of natural ingredients designed to cool and energize. The syrup is primarily made of:
- Sugar and Water: The base of the syrup, providing sweetness and viscosity.
- Rose Distillate: The signature flavor, imparting a floral aroma that defines Rooh Afza.
- Screw Pine (Kewra): A fragrant essence from the pandanus flower, adding depth to the taste.
- Fruits: Extracts of pineapple, apple, berries, orange, watermelon, and more, contributing to its fruity undertones.
- Herbs and Vegetables: Ingredients like coriander, chicory, purslane, and lotus offer cooling and digestive benefits.
- Floral Extracts: Elements like white lily and blue star water lily enhance the refreshing quality.
- Citric Acid: For a slight tanginess and preservation.
- Sodium Benzoate: A preservative to maintain shelf life.
- FD&C Red No. 40: The vibrant red color that makes Rooh Afza visually striking.
This blend, rooted in Unani traditions, aims to balance the body’s heat and maintain hydration. However, the high sugar content (approximately 65% in standard variants) has sparked debates about its health implications, which we’ll explore later.
Rooh Afza Syrup: Versatility in Every Drop
Rooh Afza syrup is a versatile concentrate that transforms into a variety of beverages and desserts. Traditionally, it’s mixed with chilled water or milk to create a refreshing sharbat, often garnished with ice, mint, or soaked sabja (basil) seeds. The syrup’s adaptability extends beyond drinks—it’s drizzled over falooda, kulfi, ice cream, and even used in mocktails and smoothies. Its sweet, floral profile makes it a favorite for enhancing summer treats, from popsicles to lassis.
Hamdard has also innovated with ready-to-drink variants like Rooh Afza Fusion and Rooh Afza Milkshake in India, and Rooh Afza Go in Pakistan, catering to modern consumers seeking convenience. These products retain the classic flavor while offering portability, making Rooh Afza a year-round delight rather than just a summer staple.
Rooh Afza Sugar-Free: A Health-Conscious Alternative
Recognizing the growing demand for healthier options, Hamdard introduced Rooh Afza Lite, a sugar-free variant designed for health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions, such as diabetics. Rooh Afza Lite uses maltitol, a low-calorie sweetener, and includes fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), a prebiotic dietary fiber that supports gut health. This version retains the iconic taste and cooling properties but with fewer calories and a lower glycemic index, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
However, some skepticism surrounds sugar-free claims. For instance, a product labeled as sugar-free by another brand, Burney Rooh Afza, was criticized for containing 87.8% sugar, highlighting the importance of reading labels carefully. Hamdard’s Rooh Afza Lite, however, is marketed transparently as a zero-added-sugar option, appealing to those seeking balance without sacrificing flavor.
Is Drinking Rooh Afza Good for Health? Rooh Afza Benefits Explored
Rooh Afza’s health benefits are rooted in its Unani heritage, designed to cool the body and replenish energy. Here are some potential advantages, along with considerations:
- Hydration and Cooling: Ingredients like rose, kewra, and lotus are believed to lower body temperature, making Rooh Afza ideal for combating heat exhaustion and dehydration during summer.
- Energy Boost: The sugar content provides quick energy, which is particularly valued during Ramadan when breaking the fast (iftar) requires instant replenishment.
- Digestive Support: Herbs like coriander and purslane may aid digestion, reducing bloating and discomfort.
- Nutrient Content: Rooh Afza contains minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which help maintain electrolyte balance.
- Mood Enhancement: The floral aroma of rose and kewra is said to have calming effects, uplifting the spirit as the name suggests.
However, moderation is key. The standard Rooh Afza syrup is high in sugar (about 23 grams per 30 ml serving), which can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, or dental issues if consumed excessively. Artificial additives like FD&C Red No. 40 and sodium benzoate have raised concerns in some studies, with potential links to hypersensitivity or hyperactivity, though these are not conclusively proven. For those seeking health benefits without drawbacks, Rooh Afza Lite offers a better alternative, but even then, portion control is advised.
Rooh Afza Recipe: Crafting Refreshment at Home
Creating a Rooh Afza drink is simple, yet the possibilities are endless. Below are two popular recipes to bring this soul refresher to your table:
Classic Rooh Afza Sharbat
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp Rooh Afza syrup
- 200 ml chilled water
- 1 tsp soaked sabja seeds (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a glass, add Rooh Afza syrup.
- Pour in chilled water and stir until fully dissolved.
- Add soaked sabja seeds and ice cubes, if desired.
- Garnish with mint leaves and serve immediately.
Rooh Afza Milkshake
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp Rooh Afza syrup
- 250 ml chilled milk (or almond milk for a vegan option)
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (optional)
- Crushed pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
- Blend Rooh Afza syrup, milk, and ice cream (if using) until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and top with crushed pistachios.
- Serve chilled for a creamy, indulgent treat.
These recipes can be customized with lemon juice, basil seeds, or even soda for a fizzy twist. For desserts, drizzle Rooh Afza over falooda or kulfi to elevate the flavor.
Who is the CEO of Rooh Afza?
Rooh Afza’s maker, Hamdard Laboratories, is run by various CEOs spread across its regional offices. Hamid Ahmed, the great-grandson of Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, is the CEO of Hamdard Laboratories in India, in charge of Rooh Afza’s manufacturing and creative work. Historically, leadership in Pakistan has been linked to people like Hakim Mohammad Said’s family; Sadia Rashid, his daughter, has been chairperson in last years. Though the business runs with the same attitude of excellence and legacy, particular CEO information for Hamdard Bangladesh is less publicly recorded. These leaders guarantee Rooh Afza stays faithful to its origins even as they change with the times.
Rooh Afza’s Cultural and Emotional Significance
More than a drink, Rooh Afza is a feeling. For many, it conjures memories of family gatherings where a pitcher of Rooh Afza was the centrepiece, Ramadan iftars, or childhood summers. Its bright crimson colour and flowery perfume are characteristic of celebration and heat relief. Symbolising food and thankfulness, it is a ritualistic component of fasting throughout Ramadan. Its low cost and availability have made it a drink for everyone, beyond class and countries.
The drink’s ongoing appeal reflects its tenacity despite historical upheavals such as the partition of 1947. Rooh Afza stands on its own despite competition from worldwide brands like cola and packaged juices because of its unique taste and emotional connection. Marketing efforts have kept it current, such those with actress Juhi Chawla and chef Nita Mehta in 2010, highlighting its adaptability in contemporary cuisine.
Challenges and Controversies
Rooh Afza has not been without difficulties. Hamdard Bangladesh was penalised in 2018 for deceptive ads stating the syrup included “35% fruit juice,” hence stressing the need of openness. Production expenses have also been affected by rising sugar prices, which have somewhat reduced its market in past years. Health-conscious customers also criticise its excessive sugar level, which drives developments such Rooh Afza Lite.
Rooh Afza’s devoted following is unrelenting in spite of these difficulties. Hamdard’s willingness to change shows its capacity to adapt—whether via sugar-free versions or new formats—without compromising the core of Majeed’s mission.
Why Rooh Afza Endures
The long life of Rooh Afza is its capacity to combine innovation with tradition. Whether enjoyed from a glass at home or shared at a celebration, it’s a drink that feels intimate. Its herbal origins attract people looking for natural cures; its adaptability ensures its relevance in contemporary kitchens. The sugar-free version fits health trends; ready-to-drink choices fit quick-paced living.
Furthermore, Rooh Afza’s narrative is one of community and tenacity. Established by Majeed’s wife, Rabea Begum, Hamdard’s charity trust directs earnings towards education and healthcare, hence supporting the brand’s philosophy of “empathy in pain.” Every sip seems important because of this dedication to social good, which appeals to consumers.
Conclusion
Rooh Afza is proof of the strength of simplicity and heritage. From its beginnings in a little Delhi store to its presence in homes all around, it still inspires and refreshes. Rooh Afza promises to feed the soul whether you want it as a classic sharbat, a creamy milkshake, or a sugar-free delicacy. Rooh Afza is a classic friend while we negotiate changing tastes and current health issues; it shows that some tastes are ageless.
