The competition in India’s dairy sector is set to enter the cricket field once again. Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), which sells products under the popular Nandini brand, has initiated the process to secure a sponsorship association with Royal Challengers Bengaluru for IPL 2026. If the deal goes through, Nandini could become RCB official dairy partner, setting the stage for a fresh face-off with Amul.
This move comes soon after Amul earlier association with RCB, making the proposed tie-up a high-profile branding battle between two of India biggest dairy names.
What Is Nandini Planning for IPL 2026?
KMF has floated a tender to appoint an IPL-authorised agency that will help Nandini secure branding and sponsorship rights linked to RCB during IPL 2026. The proposal includes the use of RCB name, logo, and trademarks across product packaging, advertising campaigns, and public relations activities during the IPL window.
In addition, KMF has also released a separate tender for digital gantry advertising at Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, aimed at increasing Nandini visibility during the tournament season.
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Stadium Promotions and Digital Push
As part of the proposed association, Nandini plans strong on-ground and digital activation. During RCB home matches, kiosks may be set up inside the stadium for product promotion and direct sales.
The brand also intends to use RCB players in campaigns across Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook. Large outdoor hoardings and high-impact media formats featuring RCB stars are also part of the strategy. Reports suggest that Indian batting icon Virat Kohli and two other RCB players could be central faces of Nandini IPL promotions.
Expansion Beyond Karnataka
Nandini IPL push is not limited to Karnataka. The federation aims to strengthen its presence in northern and western markets such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Mumbai. By leveraging IPL’s massive national viewership, KMF hopes to accelerate brand recall and sales in regions traditionally dominated by Amul.
Amul vs Nandini: A Growing Brand Battle
The rivalry between Amul and Nandini is not new. It gained national attention in 2023 when Amul entered the Bengaluru market, triggering political and cooperative-sector debates over the impact on local milk producers. IPL sponsorship now appears to be the next major battleground for brand dominance and consumer mindshare.
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Key Facts: Nandini, Amul & IPL 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Sponsor | Nandini (KMF) |
| Target Team | Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| Current Rival | Amul |
| IPL Season | IPL 2026 (19th edition) |
| IPL Dates | 26 March – 31 May 2026 |
| Nandini Milk Procurement | ~8.4 million litres per day |
| KMF Turnover | ₹19,800 crore (FY 2021–22) |
| Amul Revenue | ₹55,055 crore (FY 2022–23, provisional) |
KMF Growing Sports Marketing Strategy
KMF has steadily increased its presence in sports marketing over the past few years. Apart from IPL ambitions, Nandini has been associated with international cricket teams in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and has also partnered with leagues like Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian Super League.
As of now, neither KMF nor RCB has officially commented on the tender process. However, if the partnership is finalised, IPL 2026 could witness one of the most visible brand rivalries in Indian sports marketing.
With cricket offering unmatched reach and emotional connect, all eyes are now on whether Nandini can successfully challenge Amul dominance through an RCB alliance.
