Pan masala has already become part of Indian culture because it symbolizes centuries-old traditions and hospitality customs. The Indian pan masala industry has been experiencing an incredible growth in recent decades that has seen it evolve from small-scale traditional production to a multi-billion-rupee organized segment of the industry. The market size of the pan masala brands will hit INR 46,682 Crore in the year 2024 and will reach INR 64,446 Crore in the year 2033, and the brand has also developed over time to suit various consumer needs.
This paper examines the top 10 pan masala brands that have been able to win the hearts and taste buds of millions of people in India and have their own offerings, their heritage, and presence in the market in the year 2026.
What is Pan Masala?
Pan masala is a traditional Indian mouth freshener that is produced as a special combination of natural ingredients. Its major ingredients are areca nut (betel nut or supari) catechu (kattha), slaked lime (chuna) and cardamom seeds, mixed with an assortment of aromatic spices and flavoring agents. Pan masala is unlike the old-fashioned paan leaves that are cumbersome to carry and consume in terms of weight and size, being available in a convenient dry form, packed either in pouches or tins.
This is a tobacco-free one, providing the consumer with the refreshing experience of the taste with sweet, bitter and aromatic notes that are in harmony with each other. The product also became very popular as a convenient alternative to traditional betel leaf paan because a person could have a flavor similar to it at any time or place without the inconvenience of preparing it.
Difference between Pan Masala, Gutkha, and Other Chewable Products
| Product | Main Ingredients | Tobacco Content | Primary Use | Form |
| Pan Masala | Areca nut, catechu, lime, cardamom, spices | No tobacco | Mouth freshener, after-meal refreshment | Dry powder in pouches |
| Gutkha | Areca nut, catechu, lime, tobacco, spices | Contains tobacco | Chewable tobacco product | Dry powder in pouches |
| Zarda | Processed tobacco leaves, spices, essences | High tobacco content | Chewing tobacco | Cut tobacco leaves |
| Khaini | Dried tobacco, slaked lime | Contains tobacco | Traditional chewing tobacco | Loose tobacco mix |
| Supari | Betel nut, flavoring | No tobacco | Mouth freshener | Whole or chopped nuts |
Health and Legal Considerations
- Cancer Risk: Pan masala, even without tobacco, may cause oral cancer because areca nut is a carcinogen and the length of exposure to the ingredients.
- Oral Health Problems: Pan masala stains teeth, causes gum disease, and can result in oral submucous fibrosis, which is a precancerous change in the tissue flexibility of the mouth.
- Regulatory Prohibitions: Under the public health regulations, most states have either banned or partially banned the sale, production and storage of pan masala and gutkha products.
- Age Limitations: The majority pan masala products cannot be sold to children, especially strict age checks imposed by food safety regulations of India.
- Advertising restrictions: There are serious limits on direct advertising of pan masala products in television and print media and so brands resort to surrogate advertising on mouth fresheners.
- Health Warnings: Pan masala packaging should have statutory health warnings which are required by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to inform customers.
Top 10 Pan Masala Brands in India 2026
1. Rajnigandha Pan Masala
Establishment: 1983
Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Rajnigandha Pan Masala is the highest selling brand of premium pan masala in the world introduced by the DS Group in 1983 and is widely recognized among the leading pan masala brands in India. This flagship product has more than 95 years of history of producing exceptional mouth fresheners. Rajnigandha is an ideal combination of valuable ingredients such as hand-picked betelnut, catechu, lime, and aromatic cardamom seeds.
The brand has been the first choice in the minds of pan masala connoisseurs who believe only in the best. Produced in world-class plants in Guwahati, Noida, and Kundli, Rajnigandha is a totally tobacco-free premium product, known for its high quality supported by excellent R&D and strict quality policies.
Key Facts:
- World’s largest selling brand
- 100% tobacco-free formulation
- Premium segment positioning
- Multi-location manufacturing facilities
- International market presence
Best For: Premium quality seekers
Website Link: https://rajnigandha.com
2. Pan Bahar Pan Masala
Establishment: 1936 (foundations), 1966 (official entity)
Headquarters: Delhi
Pan Bahar, the Heritage Pan Masala has a history of excellence in taste and leadership of more than 85 years. The brand was actually founded in 1966 by Shri Prakash Chand Jain through Ashok and Co Pan Bahar Ltd. but its origin can be traced way back to 1936. Pan Bahar is an excellent delectable combination of hand-picked ingredients originating in the finest farms around the world such as betelnut of premium quality, lime, catechu, cardamom seeds, sandalwood oil, and . The firm has a great market presence having one of the most attractive pan masala brands portfolio that includes products such as Pan Bahar Crystal, Bahar, Begum, Dilruba, Natkhat and Wah, Bahubali and Bahar Select.
Key Facts:
- Heritage brand with legacy
- Multiple product variants available
- Premium Pan Bahar Crystal
- Extensive distribution network
- Export hub in Kandla
Best For: Traditional taste lovers
Website Link: https://www.panbahar.in
3. Vimal Pan Masala
Establishment: 1990
Headquarters: New Delhi
Since its inception in 1990, Vimal Pan Masala Company has become a leading name among pan masala brands in India in terms of manufacturing and exporting high-quality pan masala products. Under the leadership of Mr. Dharmani Deni, Vimal has expanded into international markets such as Dubai, South Africa, and East Africa. The brand offers a wide variety of products and, with its legendary slogan “Daane-Daane Mein Kesar Ka Dam,” emphasizes premium quality enriched with saffron.
Vimal Pan Masala uses high-quality ingredients such as kesar (saffron), flavoring agents, areca nut, slaked lime, catechu, and selected spices. The company also maintains strict quality control standards through dedicated testing departments equipped with advanced technologies.
Key Facts:
- Saffron-infused premium products
- Strong international presence
- Multiple product variants
- Quality-focused manufacturing
- Growing export business
Best For: Value-conscious premium buyers
Website Link: https://vimalgutkhacompany.in/
4. Rajshree Pan Masala
Establishment: 1997
Headquarters: Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Rajshree Group, founded in 1997, has established a strong niche among pan masala brands in India, with its focus on quality products. Rajshree Pan Masala has built lasting brand loyalty across age groups through its consistent quality and distinctive flavor. The brand offers a wide product range, including Rajshree Pan Masala, Rajshree Gutkha, and Rajshree Tulsi Mix.
Also known as Rajshree Flavours Private Limited, the company has remained active and competitive since its incorporation. Based in Kanpur, Rajshree specializes in delivering authentic taste through natural perfumes, betelnut, cardamom, kesar, sandalwood oil, and other exclusive ingredients, thereby strengthening its position in the Indian market.
Key Facts:
- Established in late 1990s
- Regional market stronghold
- Diverse product portfolio
- Quality ingredient selection
- Growing distribution network
Best For: Regional flavor preferences
Website Link: https://rajnigandha.com/
5. Signature Pan Masala
Establishment: 2019
Headquarters: Delhi
Media Signature Pan Masala is a luxury offering from the Dilbagh Group and has carved a premium space among pan masala brands in India, reflecting royalty, craftsmanship, and innovative blending. While the parent Dilbagh Group traces its roots back to 1947, the official incorporation of this premium brand in the market took place in 2019.
Signature Premium Pan Masala is carefully crafted with a mild flavor profile and high-quality ingredients to deliver an elegant, refined experience. Marketed under DB Signature and produced by Som Pan Products Pvt. Ltd., the product features a meticulous blend of betelnut, catechu, lime, and cardamom seeds. It is packaged in convenient zipper packets to preserve freshness and enhance portability, reinforcing its premium positioning in the market.
Key Facts:
- Premium quality positioning
- Dilbagh Group heritage
- Modern packaging solutions
- Quality-focused approach
- Growing market acceptance
Best For: Premium experience seekers
Website Link: https://dbsiggnature.com
6. RMD Pan Masala
Establishment: 1960s (Manikchand Group)
Headquarters: Pune, Maharashtra
RMD Pan Masala is a 100% non-tobacco mouth freshener of the ever-famous Manikchand Group, which has a very endearing fragrance and taste. The Manikchand Group is a long-standing company in the pan masala market that was started by Rasiklal Manikchand Dhariwal more than 60 years ago. Its manufacturing process under hygienic conditions is done using modern technology and select high-quality materials that ensure total purity and safety to its users.
Men and women enjoy the product at parties, after eating, during working hours, or at times of happiness. RMD is packed with high-quality laminated boxes that maintain the taste and keep the freshness.
Key Facts:
- Manikchand Group legacy
- 100% tobacco-free product
- Multiple packaging options
- Extensive distribution network
- Affordable premium positioning
Best For: Daily use freshness
Website Link: http://manikchandgroup.com/index1.html
7. Shikhar Pan Masala
Establishment: 1994
Headquarters: Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Shikhar Pan Masala Company was founded in October 1994, starting with a single manufacturing facility and one machine. Within the first two years, the brand captured significant market share in Bihar and has since expanded its presence across India.
Today, Shikhar Pan Masala is recognized as one of the leading independent Indian manufacturers in the pan masala segment, offering products across all price brackets. The company places strong emphasis on adopting the latest technology and maintaining robust environmental management practices.
Shikhar offers a variety of product versions, including Shikhar 1000 Pan Masala, Shikhar Maharaja Pack, and Tansen Blues. A focus on quality, coupled with efficient distribution channels in eastern and northern India, has helped the brand maintain a strong market niche.
Key Facts:
- Established in 1994
- Strong Bihar market presence
- Multiple product variants
- Independent manufacturer status
- Growing distribution network
Best For: Eastern India regional preference
Website Link: https://www.shikhargroup.in
8. Dilbagh Pan Masala
Establishment: 1947
Headquarters: New Delhi
Dilbagh Pan Masala is an industry experienced company with more than 75 years of manufacture of pan masala and is a manufacturer of pan masala in India which is one of the oldest and largest. Dilbagh Group has established a high image in the quality segment of pan masala and mouth fresheners. The company has been a gold mine of information on the production of pan masala, which has led to the introduction and production of different high-quality blends to the different tastes of the Indians.
Dilbagh has a range of products such as Dilbagh Plus Pan Masala, DB Signature which are a combination of bittersweet products that taste delicious. The production is made based on the skilled processes with high precision in the various flavors.
Key Facts:
- Over 75 years heritage
- Expert manufacturing processes
- Diverse product range
- Quality-focused approach
- Middle East market presence
Best For: Heritage and tradition lovers
Website Link: https://www.dilbaghgroup.com
9. Pan Parag Pan Masala
Establishment: 1973
Headquarters: Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
Pan Parag Pan Masala is a renowned Indian pan masala brand, introduced on August 18, 1973, by the late Shri Mansukhbhai Kothari, who is often hailed as the father of the pan masala industry. Produced by Kothari Products Limited, Pan Parag was the first pan masala to be produced in India’s organized sector.
The brand achieved market dominance in the mid-1980s when Shri Deepak Kothari revolutionized packaging by introducing small pouches instead of large tin containers, thereby greatly enhancing consumer accessibility.
With over five decades of legacy, Pan Parag is crafted using premium ingredients, including handpicked cardamom, aromatic saffron, sun-dried areca nuts, and refreshing mint, making it a preferred choice among pan masala enthusiasts.
Key Facts:
- Launched in 1973
- Market leader position
- Innovative pouch packaging pioneer
- International export presence
- Zero tobacco formulation
Best For: Pan masala heritage lovers
Website Link: https://panparag.com
10. Baba Pan Masala (Dharampal Premchand Ltd.)
Establishment: 1929
Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Dharampal Premchand Limited manufactures Baba Pan Masala that has a history of operating over 95 years in the industry of tobacco and mouth freshener. Shri Dharampal Ji is the founder of the company who opened his humble perfume shop in Chandni Chowk, Delhi in 1929. Baba is the traditional Indian paan tradition and it has managed to remain one of the oldest homegrown brands in India.
Its brand provides the highest quality of products that are manufactured using carefully chosen products such as betel nuts, catechu, lime, cardamom, and natural perfumes. Baba Pan Masala is characterized by the old style packaging and the desire to retain the original flavor as well as use the modern production standards.
Key Facts:
- 95+ years of legacy
- Part of DS Group
- Traditional Indian formulation
- Export market presence
- Vintage brand appeal
Best For: Traditional taste enthusiasts
Website Link: https://www.baba.in
Factors That Make These Pan Masala Brands Popular
- Heritage and Trust: The leading pan masala brands have been in existence over decades, and their brand equities have been established by delivering high-quality products, preserving the traditional recipes, and adopting the latest production methods.
- Selection of Premium Ingredients: Top brands spend a lot of money to get the best areca nuts, cardamom, saffron and aromatic essences in certain regions, which gives them the best taste and aroma than other competitors.
- Brand Ambassador Marketing: Strategic association with Bollywood stars and sports stars have contributed greatly in brand visibility and aspirational value, generating deep emotional attachment with consumers of all profiles.
- Distribution Excellence: Huge distribution networks that cover hundreds of thousands of retail stores make these pan masala household names in both metropolitan cities and remote areas.
- Packaging Innovation: Appealing, convenient and preserving freshness packaging options such as small packs to high-end tins also appeal to various consumption occasions and consumer preferences.
- Price Positioning Strategy: The strong pan masala brands provide products at different price ranges, including affordable daily-use products to ultra-premium luxury products and serve various market segments at the same time.
Regional Variations & Market Presence
Indian pan masala market is the most interesting regional market with local preferences, culture, and the same influence by consumption trends. Northern states, especially the states of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, are much more inclined towards the sweeter and saffron-flavored types, with brands such as Rajnigandha and Pan Bahar being the most popular. Eastern states such as West Bengal and Odisha portend inclinations of classic taste with moderate sweetness.
The varied preferences in the Western markets in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan are exhibited in high to value segments. The more a state becomes urbanized, the more it embraces the Southern states, although consumption is still relatively low. The level of market penetration is different with the national brands continuing to have strongholds in various regions and the regional players taking their own state markets with localized flavor choices and local distribution plans.
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Conclusion
The pan masala business in India is a special fusion of tradition, culture, and contemporary consumer demands, as the 10 best pan masala brands have managed to overcome the health wobble, legal issues, and market forces. Of the old brands, such as Pan Bahar and Dilbagh, the market giants, such as Rajnigandha, and the new products offered by Vimal and Signature, each pan masala brand presents some unique advantages to the market, which is expanding very fast.
Since the industry has forecasted growth to INR 64,446 Crore by the year 2033, these brands are still adjusting themselves by product diversification, quality improvement, and responsible marketing. Although health-related reasons keep playing the major role, the convenience, flavor, and cultural value of pan masala guarantee that the product will be relevant in Indian society, so these top pan masala brands will become part of the FMCG of the country in the years to come.
FAQs
Is pan masala bad for your health?
Although tobacco-free pan masala does not include tobacco, the areca nut is considered to be carcinogenic. Oral health problems, cancer risks and oral submucous fibrosis may be the results of regular consumption.
So what is the distinction between pan masala and gutkha?
Pan masala is tobacco-free and is mainly used as a mouth freshener, and gutkha is a mixture of tobacco and other similar ingredients. Gutkha has been prohibited in several states on grounds of health.
What is the most appropriate pan masala brand in India?
Rajnigandha is regarded as the largest-selling pan masala brand in the world, but it depends on the region and the taste of an individual. Pan Bahar and Vimal also have a lot of market share.
Are there restrictions that are imposed by law upon the sales of pan masala?
Yes, some states have put partial or a total ban on the production and sale of pan masala. Advertisements are highly regulated and shall not be sold to minors in the country.
What is the best way to store pan masala?
Pan masala should be kept in a dry, cool environment that is not exposed to direct sunlight. Pouches should be properly resealed or moved to airtight containers once opened in order to keep the aroma and freshness intact.