Eastern, a household name in spices, masalas, and foods and part of Orkla India, has unveiled a new campaign dedicated to Kerala’s beloved sambar—a dish that holds countless stories of tradition, taste, and regional pride. For over four decades, Eastern has reigned as Kerala’s No. 1 Sambar brand, earning the trust of generations with its authentic and consistent flavours.
Backed by consumer insights, the campaign highlights how sambar is more than just a dish — it’s a reflection of personal taste and cultural identity. While many families savour the classic, well-balanced flavour of the traditional recipe, others seek the richer, more pronounced kayam (asafoetida) profile that elevates the experience.
With this campaign, Eastern celebrates that diversity of preference while reinforcing its role as the brand that unites Kerala’s kitchens. The spotlight shines on two of its most loved offerings: Eastern ‘Sambar’ and Eastern ‘Thani Nadan Sambar’, together embodying the true essence of Kerala’s culinary heritage.
The TVC, aptly titled “Sambar Poru” (The Battle of Sambar), brings this consumer insight alive through a playful, slice-of-life narrative set in a quintessential Kerala household. At the heart of the story is a light-hearted culinary duel between a mother and her daughter — one standing by the classic, balanced sambar, the other proudly defending the richer kayam (asafoetida) profile.
Adding to the fun, the son-in-law takes on the role of the lively anchor, while relatives from across Kerala’s diverse districts gather to taste and debate over the two versions. As the steaming bowls of sambar take centre stage, Eastern’s Sambar Powder and Eastern’s Thani Nadan Sambar Powder emerge as the true stars of the show.
In the end, both sambars win equal admiration, and the host warmly declares them joint winners — a resolution that beautifully mirrors Kerala’s own love for culinary diversity. With a blend of humour, nostalgia, and cultural pride, the film not only celebrates the state’s rich food traditions but also reinforces Eastern’s position as the brand that unites every kitchen in Kerala.
Speaking on the campaign, Girish Nair, CEO, Eastern Business Unit, said, “Kerala’s love for sambar is as nuanced and diverse as the state itself- shaped by tradition and generations of homegrown recipes. At Eastern, sambar is more than just a dish, it’s a reflection of identity and comfort. This campaign is a tribute to the regional pride and varied choices we see in kitchens across the state. As a brand built on four decades of trust, authenticity, and uncompromising quality, the Eastern Sambar campaign reaffirms the brand’s commitment to celebrating Kerala’s rich culinary heritage.”
Elango M, Vice President, FCB India, said, “From the length and breadth of Kerala, there are different types of Sambar! It’s a very versatile dish, so in our campaign, the task was to show that Eastern caters to different preferences. So, we created the ‘Battle of Sambar’ as the creative device. Consumer research helped a great deal. And the teams have delivered a campaign that will endear Eastern to the Keralites even more.”
The integrated campaign will run from 21st August to 15th September 2025 across television, radio, theatre, and digital platforms, with on-ground activations and sampling in key markets, ensuring deep engagement with consumers across Kerala.
