India's first private train to be known as 'Sprite' Tejas Express from Aug 19

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has awarded advertisement rights to brand the Lucknow-Delhi-Lucknow Tejas Express as the 'Sprite' Tejas Express, making it the first train in India to be named after a corporate brand. Railway sources said the branding will be effective from August 19, 2026, to November 11, 2026.

According to sources, the North Eastern Railway has been instructed to announce Train 82501/82502, the IRCTC-operated Tejas Express, as the 'Sprite' Tejas Express at originating and en route stations on both directions of the journey. The advertisement rights were granted through a Letter of Acceptance to M/s Sprite for a period of six months, the sources said on Wednesday (August 12, 2026).

This train holds the distinction of being the country's first private train. It was flagged off by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on December 3, 2021. The fully air-conditioned superfast service, operated by IRCTC, is equipped with modern amenities, including extensive on-board food and beverage services and an infotainment system.

The train also facilitates group bookings. Passengers travelling in groups for corporate meetings, weddings, social events, and similar occasions can reserve an entire AC Chair Car coach, which has 78 seats.

This is the first time a train is being named after a brand. A senior Railways official explained that although the Lucknow-Delhi-Lucknow Tejas Express is a private train, IRCTC pays Indian Railways haulage charges, which cover the use of infrastructure such as tracks and railway stations.

The official also noted that exterior advertisement wraps of coaches were already permitted on regular trains operated by Indian Railways as an income-generating measure, allowing private companies to display their brands. The branding of the Tejas Express extends this practice to a private train, offering a new revenue stream for the Railways.

The development underscores the growing commercialisation of Indian Railways' assets as it seeks to increase non-fare revenue. The 'Sprite' Tejas Express will carry the brand name prominently on its exterior and in announcements at stations along the Lucknow-Delhi route, giving the soft drink brand significant visibility among millions of passengers.