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Mumbai’s Farm-to-Fork Brand Khetika Pulls in $18 Million to Supercharge SuperZop, Add RTE Line, and Expand Retail Footprint

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Mumbai’s Farm-to-Fork Brand Khetika Pulls in $18 Million to Supercharge SuperZop, Add RTE Line, and Expand Retail Footprint

Mumbai-based food brand Khetika has bagged $18 million in a fresh round of Series B funding, with Narotam Sekhsaria Family Office and Anicut Capital leading the charge. The round also included backing from existing supporters like Incofin India Progress Fund, Rajasthan Gum, and Shree Ram India Gums, while offering a partial exit to SIDBI Venture Capital and a group of early angel investors.

Started back in 2017 by Prithwi Singh, Darshan Krishnamurthy, and Raghuveer Allada, Khetika has built a reputation for selling everyday essentials—think batters, chutneys, spices, millets, dry fruits, and rice—without a trace of preservatives or additives. The company sources directly from a wide network of 25,000+ farmers spread across 14 Indian states, powered by its supply chain engine, SuperZop.

Now, with new funds in hand, Khetika is ready to widen its offering and modernize its backend. The team is gearing up to launch a new lineup of ready-to-eat meals and region-specific staples, crafted using age-old Indian recipes and minimal processing. A big chunk of the capital will go into automated production units, with a goal to triple output within the next 18 months. The company recently rolled out a batter facility in Delhi and a spice processing plant in Unjha, Gujarat, with more infrastructure planned.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Tech-wise, Khetika is doubling down on transparency. SuperZop will soon feature real-time quality checks and consumer-facing traceability tools, including QR codes that let buyers track exactly when and where their food was grown and packed.

Khetika’s products are sold via large retail chains, over 15,000 kirana stores, and e-commerce platforms like Amazon, BigBasket, and Blinkit. Interestingly, quick commerce now accounts for 25% of its sales—and it’s growing faster than any other channel.

“We’re building for scale, but not at the cost of quality,” said co-founder Singh. “This round helps us stay true to our clean-label ethos while reaching more homes across India.”

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$1M Boost for AMAMA: Mistry Ventures Joins She Capital in Backing India’s Fast-Rising Jewellery Label

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$1M Boost for AMAMA: Mistry Ventures Joins She Capital in Backing India’s Fast-Rising Jewellery Label

Jewellery label AMAMA, known for turning bold ideas into handcrafted fashion statements, has just closed a fresh funding round of $1 million, led by Mistry Ventures. This marks the second major investment for the brand, which earlier saw support from She Capital Trust.

Founded in 2019 by Nikita Gupta, AMAMA began as a passion project rooted in her personal love for jewellery. Over the years, it has evolved into a platform that showcases expressive, hand-done accessories sourced and designed with a global outlook, while staying grounded in Indian craftsmanship.

With the new capital infusion, AMAMA plans to ramp up its retail and digital presence. The brand is preparing to open four new stores—one each in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, and two in the Delhi NCR region, strengthening its physical footprint in key markets. Behind the scenes, it aims to invest in its supply chain, tech infrastructure, and expand its design and product teams.

But AMAMA’s sights aren’t just set on India. The brand is also exploring travel retail, international exhibitions, and tie-ups with multi-brand stores abroad to take its vision of wearable Indian art global.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

“This isn’t just about expansion,” said founder Nikita Gupta. “It’s about telling deeper stories through design, honouring our artisans, and taking rooted Indian expression to the world in a language they haven’t seen before.”

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Dior Faces Backlash for $200,000 Coat Using Indian Mukaish Embroidery Without Credit: Jonathan Anderson’s Debut Sparks Outrage

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Dior Faces Backlash for $200,000 Coat Using Indian Mukaish Embroidery Without Credit: Jonathan Anderson’s Debut Sparks Outrage

Just days after Prada drew criticism for its questionable take on India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals, Dior has landed in hot water over something strikingly similar—this time, for overlooking credit to India’s rich embroidery legacy.

At the heart of the controversy is a gleaming gold-and-ivory houndstooth coat from Dior’s latest collection, the first to be designed entirely by Jonathan Anderson since he took over as the brand’s creative head for both men’s and women’s lines. The show, held in Paris on June 27, drew heavy buzz—not just for the clothes but also for the glittering guest list, which included Rihanna, Robert Pattinson, and Daniel Craig.

But it wasn’t a celebrity that sparked the conversation online. It was fashion analyst and creator Hanan Besnovic, who posted a detailed video zooming in on the intricate metal-thread embroidery on that standout coat. Besnovic pointed out that the embroidery style is unmistakably “mukaish”—a delicate and historic hand-embroidery technique from Lucknow, India, known for weaving fine metallic strands into fabric.

“This isn’t just any coat. It’s part of a major debut collection, and the technique used is incredibly meticulous. That shimmer? It’s the result of hours of mukaish work—an art that’s been around for centuries in India,” he explains.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

What’s ruffled feathers is that nowhere in the official communication did Dior mention the technique’s Indian roots or acknowledge the artisans behind it. One Instagram user summed up the sentiment best: “Indian craftsmen deserve the same recognition as European ateliers like Lesage. Say what you will about Maria Grazia, but at least she highlighted the Indian hands behind her designs.”

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Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s “Revenge Dress” Reinvention Sparks Fashion Talk—Healing, Style & Statement

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Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s “Revenge Dress” Reinvention Sparks Fashion Talk—Healing, Style & Statement

From heartbreak red carpet to transformation power-play, Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s black “revenge dress” is making waves—and starting conversations. Originally her wedding outfit, designer Kresha Bajaj reimagined it into a bold black gown. Samantha and Kresha explain it wasn’t about erasing memories—it was reclaiming agency, resilience, and a new narrative.

This isn’t just a dress—it’s a symbol. A powerful step from a personal journey redefined through design. Feminist stylists, mental health advocates, and social media eyes are calling it haute therapy: fashion as healing, couture as courage.

The styling is sleek. Stark black silhouettes, empowered femme lines, and a narrative built into the seams. This is wellness-focused wardrobe: clothes that articulate emotion while uplifting spirit. And the response? Support poured in—from fans praising it as a “cloak of confidence” to mental health voices citing its deeper ripples.

Final Take: Samantha’s transformation isn’t trend—it’s therapy. And it’s art. When fashion becomes a vessel for healing, it goes beyond style—it becomes story, and stays long after the spotlight fades.

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Prada’s Kolhapuri Knockoff Sparks ‘Colonial Couture’ Debate—Rightfully or Ridiculously Inspired?

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Prada’s Kolhapuri Knockoff Sparks ‘Colonial Couture’ Debate—Rightfully or Ridiculously Inspired?

At Milan Fashion Week, Prada’s new tan-leather sandal caught attention—for resembling India’s Kolhapuri chappal almost a bit too closely.

Kolhapuris are a centuries-old artisanal staple, celebrated for rustic handcraft and cultural roots. Yet here was Prada presenting a nearly identical silhouette, sans credit or collaboration. It’s ignited global chatter: is this homage, inspiration, or extraction?

The story extends beyond footwear. It’s a microcosm of persistent questions: who gets to profit off indigenous craft? Should luxury brands acknowledge their sources? And can there be equitable exchanges rather than covert borrowings?

Even without tribunal-level scandal, the buzz damages impression. Consumers today are savvy. They want the origin story—who made it, where it came from, and if credit is due. Prada hasn’t commented yet, but the demand for transparency is growing—and fast.

Final Take: The Prada-Kolhapuri story isn’t just about shoes—it’s a callout. Global brands may be dreaming of artisan cool, but without credit or collaboration, that cool looks colonial. In 2025, cultural respect isn’t optional—it’s fully fashionable.

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‘Mean Girls’ Star Avantika Sparks Futuristic Heritage Trend in a Banarasi Saree by Amit Aggarwal

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‘Mean Girls’ Star Avantika Sparks Futuristic Heritage Trend in a Banarasi Saree by Amit Aggarwal

Hollywood meets handloom! Avantika, breakout star from Mean Girls, just captivated global style lists by draping herself in a futuristic Banarasi silk saree designed by Amit Aggarwal at a recent event. The saree retained the opulent drape of traditional Banarasi silk—thick, lustrous, and intricately woven—yet played with geometry, metallic details, and a high-neck blouse. The result? A vision that feels connected to Mughal grandeur but entirely 2025-ready.

Avantika’s look isn’t just about celebrity appeal—it’s a statement on how Indian textiles are evolving. Banarasi, ancient by lineage, can now be runway futuristic. Designer Aggarwal’s collection channels nostalgia while charging it with sleek structure and unexpected textures, positioning Indian handlooms as both heirloom-worthy and avant-garde.

Why does it matter? Because it signals Indian fashion’s global crossover—crafted weaves aren’t just cultural tokens, they’re innovation flags. The world is watching India reclaim its traditions on its own terms, sans filter or apology. Avantika isn’t wearing a saree; she’s wearing heritage in hyperdrive.

Final Take: With Avantika leading the charge, Banarasi silk is breaking out of bridal closets and landing on influencer timelines worldwide. It’s proof India’s handlooms are not just surviving—they’re shape-shifting into future classics.

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Malayalam Divas Are Reinventing Wedding Season Style—Kasavu, Organza & Banarasi Drapes to Watch

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Malayalam Divas Are Reinventing Wedding Season Style—Kasavu, Organza & Banarasi Drapes to Watch

As wedding season heats up in South India, Malayalam actresses are turning traditional bridal wear into trendsetting inspiration. Priya Prakash Varrier arrived in a classic white-and-gold Kasavu saree, evoking nostalgic bridal grace with sindoor and jasmine-strewn hair. Aishwarya Lekshmi stunned in a black organza saree with sequins and a tulle blouse, blending dramatic glam with quiet sophistication. Samyuktha Menon opted for a soft blush-pink Banarasi saree, at once timeless and effortlessly stylish. And Manju Warrier chose a multicolored floral organza saree by Iha Designs—airy, vibrant, and perfect for summer wedding functions.

What’s refreshing here isn’t just colour or fabric—it’s how these actresses are reimagining ethnic draping as a statement. They aren’t following Bollywood routes—they’re choosing heritage craft, millennial styling, and cultural pride. The result? A fusion of nostalgia and novelty that feels rooted yet ready for style stories.

Designers and brands have already noticed. Expect ready-made Kasavu-coordinated sets, sequined organza separates, and pastel Banarasi ensembles to hit both bridal boutiques and real-wedding wish lists.

Final Take: This isn’t just a celeb moment—it’s an ethnic resurgence. South Indian sarees are stepping off the shrine and onto social media feeds. And in 2025, wedding fashion is all about thoughtful texture, cultural connection, and contemporary craft.

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Kapil Sharma Just Stepped Into a Whole New Business in Canada: And It Has Nothing to Do with Jokes, Mics, or Netflix

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Kapil Sharma Just Stepped Into a Whole New Business in Canada: And It Has Nothing to Do with Jokes, Mics, or Netflix

Comedian Kapil Sharma, best known for making India laugh for over a decade, is now making waves in a whole new space—hospitality. Along with his wife Ginni Chatrath, Kapil has launched Kap’s Café in Surrey, Canada, and it’s turning heads for more than just the name.

Tucked away in a lively part of Surrey with a strong South Asian presence, the café is hard to miss. With its pastel-pink interiors, velvet chairs, floral walls, and quirky touches like a life-size giraffe, it feels like stepping into a dessert-themed dream. The vibe is equal parts whimsical and relaxed—perfect for catching up over chai or snapping that perfect Instagram story.

But it’s not just the look that’s drawing crowds. The café’s menu blends cozy comfort with fun twists: think gur-wali chai, matcha iced coffee, chocolatey brownies, and flaky croissants that have already become local favorites. The pistachio-lemon cake, in particular, is being talked about almost as much as Kapil himself.

While still in its early days, Kap’s Café has already built serious hype. Kapil and Ginni shared snippets from their soft launch on social media, and the response was immediate—footfall surged, and their Instagram account crossed 20,000 followers in no time. Visitors say the staff is warm, the space inviting, and the vibe very “Kapil”—down-to-earth, fun, and slightly unexpected.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Even as he manages this new venture, Kapil hasn’t hit pause on entertainment. He continues to host The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix and is juggling multiple film projects. But clearly, Canada now holds a little piece of his heart—and a whole café full of his flavour.

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Sanya Malhotra’s Bree Matcha Launch Blows Up on Instagram: Here’s Why Everyone’s Talking About Her 87K-Liked Reel

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Sanya Malhotra’s Bree Matcha Launch Blows Up on Instagram: Here’s Why Everyone’s Talking About Her 87K-Liked Reel

Sanya Malhotra has kicked off her entrepreneurial journey in style—and a little bit of groove. The actress, known for her effortless charm and expressive dance moves, didn’t just announce her new brand Bree Matcha with a press release—she danced it into the spotlight.

In a now-viral Instagram video, Malhotra is seen performing a slick, feel-good dance routine while holding a cup of matcha. Shot in soft morning light with playful transitions and vibrant beats, the reel captures her energy and the brand’s calm-meets-cool vibe. Wearing a breezy green outfit (naturally), she twirls, sips, and smiles her way through the video, which has already crossed 87,000 likes and counting. The comments section is filled with heart emojis, fans asking for the choreography tutorial, and curious newcomers wondering where to get “that green drink.”

The video has done more than just entertain—it’s generated massive organic buzz for Bree Matcha, Sanya’s new premium matcha label, launched in partnership with Essenzaa Nutrition’s Kunal Shah and Siddharth Shah. While many celebrities drop brands and vanish, Sanya has rolled up her sleeves—and rolled out the dance floor—to build something she clearly connects with.

A Japanese Ritual Meets Indian Hustle

At the heart of Bree Matcha is a mix of tradition and mindfulness. The brand draws inspiration from the serene routines of Japanese tea ceremonies, bringing that same sense of intention into the lives of fast-paced Indian consumers. The lineup is simple but curated: Everyday Matcha for those looking to swap coffee for something smoother, Ceremonial Matcha for purists, and a complete Ceremonial Matcha Kit for those wanting the full experience—bowl, bamboo whisk, spoon and all.

What sets Bree apart is not just the vibe, but the source. The matcha is grown in Kagoshima, Japan, known for its mineral-rich soil and high-grade leaves. It’s then blended with the nutritional know-how of Essenzaa, a company that’s carved a space in the Indian clean-label wellness space with its clinically supported, no-nonsense products.

Sanya’s personal matcha story started when she began incorporating it into her daily routine as a way to slow down and re-center—something many of us are trying to do in our screen-heavy, high-speed lives. The collaboration with Essenzaa grew out of shared values: clean ingredients, thoughtful routines, and products that don’t just look good on a shelf but actually work.

From ritual to reel, Sanya has managed to turn matcha into a vibe—and now, a brand. Bree Matcha isn’t just here to sell you a drink. It’s asking you to pause, sip, maybe even dance a little. And judging by the response online, a lot of people are ready to do exactly that.

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Why This Oxford-Educated PhD Now Works 10-Hour Days Delivering Food in China!

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Ding Yuanzhao, 39, holds multiple advanced degrees—including a PhD in biology from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University and a master’s in biodiversity from Oxford. Years ago, he was celebrated for nearly acing China’s notoriously difficult gaokao exam, earning him admission to the prestigious Tsinghua University. He later added a master’s in energy engineering from Peking University to his résumé.

Yet despite this long list of elite credentials, Ding’s reality today is far from what many would expect. After his postdoctoral stint at the National University of Singapore ended in March last year, Ding hit a wall. He sent out countless job applications, sat through more than ten interviews, and waited—for responses that never came.

With no promising opportunities in sight, he signed up as a food delivery rider in Singapore. Clocking around 10 hours a day, he made the equivalent of roughly ₹47,000 a week—enough to cover his family’s needs. “The job is steady, the money pays the bills, and I stay fit while doing it,” he said in a candid social media post. He also mentioned that tutoring was off the table—not due to a lack of qualifications, but because he felt too awkward approaching potential clients.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

After several months, Ding moved back to China and now works with Meituan, one of the country’s largest food delivery platforms, in Beijing.

His story has triggered heated discussions online, with many questioning what academic success is really worth in today’s job market. As China’s youth unemployment rate (excluding students) reached 14.9% in May, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, Ding’s situation feels less like an outlier and more like a symptom of a much larger problem.

While some sympathized with his struggle, others praised his willingness to do honest work instead of holding out for a “dignified” job. Regardless of where people stand, Ding’s journey has struck a chord—and opened up a broader conversation about the mismatch between higher education and real-world opportunity.

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