Brewing Growth with Purpose: The Story of Kompassion Kombucha

In the latest episode of the Growth for Good podcast, I spoke with Rajkumar Dhanaraj, founder of Kompassion Kombucha, a business that crafts gut-friendly drinks, builds community, champions sustainability, and brings new energy to the Highlands.

From Grandmother’s Recipe to Highland Craft Brewing

Rajkumar’s journey into kombucha began with a deeply personal connection—his grandmother’s recipe. “We used to drink kombucha at home growing up,” he shared. That family tradition eventually became the seed of a commercial idea, though it didn’t begin there. Initially, Rajkumar planned to create an herbal-infused beer, but he changed course to align his venture with his values and the growing demand for healthier alternatives.

After completing university in 2010, Rajkumar recognised a gap in the UK market for kombucha. What started with small home batches and informal taste tests in London parks has now blossomed into a business with purpose at its heart, even if it wasn’t all plain sailing.

Resilience Through Adversity: The Pandemic Effect

Like many startups, Kompassion Kombucha faced immense disruption during the pandemic. Plans for commercial brewing were put on hold, and the future seemed uncertain. But with steadfast encouragement from his wife, Dr. Saranya Selvaraj, Rajkumar chose not to give up. Instead, he rebuilt from scratch, relocating his operation to Elgin and laying the groundwork for a new growth phase.

Why Elgin? The Role of Water and Air

A critical factor in Rajkumar’s business decision-making was air and water quality. “The SCOBY breathes,” Rajkumar explains, “so the water and air it’s exposed to directly affects the drink.” After conducting extensive research and spending time in London, Rajkumar relocated to Elgin, drawn by the purity of the environment and the people he met.

This move also brought personal transformation. “It’s probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Rajkumar says, reflecting on the welcoming spirit of the Highland community and the safer, slower pace of life for his young family.

A Business Rooted in Community

Beyond kombucha, Rajkumar has become a deeply engaged figure in Highland life. He serves as President of the Highland Indian Association and Secretary of the Highland Cricket Club, where community cricket has grown from struggling to field a team to hosting a vibrant club of 45–50 players.

This community focus also informs his business ethos: “I always ask myself—would I give this to my children? If the answer is yes, I know we’re doing the right thing.”

Ethics, Sustainability, and a Vision for Growth

Kompassion Kombucha’s long-term goal isn’t just to dominate the UK kombucha market, but to become a benchmark for sustainable and ethical business. Rajkumar aims to maintain top-tier quality while growing a brand that contributes positively to society. “Turnover comes second,” he insists. “Quality and responsibility come first.”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Rajkumar’s message for budding business owners is clear: start with the right idea and a strong sense of purpose. “Don’t worry about money first. If your idea is right and you’re thinking about people and planet, everything else will follow.”

And perhaps the most lasting lesson came from his parents during a visit to the shop he ran in Inverness: “Whatever you do, make sure you’re not harming anyone. Spread love and peace.” That advice prompted Rajkumar to steer away from alcohol sales and towards kombucha, a choice that continues to shape the heart of Kompassion.