NIC’s Parent Walko Acquires Mumbai’s Meemee’s Ice Creams to Tap India’s ₹3,000 Crore Artisanal Dessert Wave

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June 28, 2025

Image-of-Meemees-Ice — NIC’s Parent Walko Acquires Mumbai’s Meemee’s Ice Creams to Tap India’s ₹3,000 Crore Artisanal Dessert Wave

Walko Food Company, the Pune-based force behind popular ice cream brands like NIC, Grameen Kulfi, and Mimo, has just added a bold new flavour to its mix — Mumbai’s Meemee’s Ice Creams. Known for its quirky, youth-friendly creations, Meemee’s has been snapped up by Walko in a move that hints at deeper ambitions in India’s fast-growing artisanal dessert space.

While the financial details remain under wraps, the intent behind the deal is loud and clear: Walko is looking to widen its footprint in India’s urban markets and double down on D2C and digital-first strategies. With Meemee’s in its corner, the company now gains access to a fresh batch of format-driven desserts that don’t play by the usual rules — think Ice Cream Toasties, layered Roley’s, Instagram-ready cakes, and Tubsters made for quick indulgence.

“Dessert isn’t just about taste anymore — it’s about experience, mood, and personal style,” said Raj Bhandari, director at Walko. “Meemee’s brings that spark. Their brand energy, their out-of-the-box formats — it all fits perfectly with how we see the future of frozen treats.”

Founded in Mumbai, Meemee’s has steadily gained traction with a younger crowd that cares just as much about design and story as it does about flavour. The brand has built its identity around fun, innovation, and social media appeal — and its menu reflects that spirit. Whether it’s a slice of cake that doubles as a scoop of nostalgia or a grab-and-go tub that hits just right on a Friday night, Meemee’s has tapped into a new kind of dessert behavior.

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With this acquisition, Walko isn’t just expanding its product lineup — it’s entering a cultural space where desserts are as expressive as they are delicious.

Welspun Ropes In Vidya Balan as Brand Ambassador to Lead ₹10,000 Crore Domestic Textile Push Across Indian Households

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June 28, 2025

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Image of Welspun — Welspun Ropes In Vidya Balan as Brand Ambassador to Lead ₹10,000 Crore Domestic Textile Push Across Indian Households

Welspun, a well-known name in the home textiles space, has brought acclaimed actor Vidya Balan on board as the face of its domestic product range. The move comes as the company gears up for a new marketing push that aims to speak directly to Indian households about quality, trust, and everyday comfort.

Instead of going the typical celebrity endorsement route, Welspun chose Balan for who she is beyond the screen — someone who connects with people across regions, age groups, and backgrounds. Her personality mirrors the qualities Welspun wants to highlight: dependable, no-nonsense, and deeply rooted in Indian values.

The upcoming campaign, which will unfold across digital, print, and television, will spotlight Welspun’s home textile offerings — not just as stylish accessories, but as thoughtful additions to real Indian homes. Expect to see Vidya featured in relatable scenarios that reflect how Welspun products fit into daily routines and family life.

“‘Har Ghar Welspun’ isn’t just a line — it’s our goal,” said Saumil Mehta, President and Business Head – Domestic Home Textiles at Welspun Global Brands. “We’re seeing more and more Indian consumers shift from generic products to trusted, branded ones. Vidya brings warmth and authenticity to that message. She feels like family — and so should our products.”

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Pradnya Popade, who heads marketing for the domestic textiles division, echoed that sentiment. “Vidya isn’t about showy glamour — she’s about real stories, real choices. That’s exactly the tone we’re aiming for. Welspun isn’t trying to impress with flash — we want to connect through trust, practicality, and thoughtful design.”

For Vidya Balan, this isn’t just another commercial deal. “When a brand reflects your own beliefs, the association feels natural,” she said. “Welspun’s focus on quality that lasts, comfort that matters, and designs that feel personal — all of that clicked with me. I’m excited to be part of a brand that understands the pulse of Indian homes.”

With this partnership, Welspun isn’t just adding a new face to its campaigns — it’s anchoring itself more deeply in the stories, routines, and aspirations of Indian households.

Nancy Tyagi vs Neha Bhasin: The Cannes Corset Dispute That Spotlights Indian Fashion Accountability

Fashion

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June 27, 2025

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Image of Nancy Tyagi vs Neha Bhasin. — Nancy Tyagi vs Neha Bhasin: The Cannes Corset Dispute That Spotlights Indian Fashion Accountability

This Cannes, all eyes were on the chain‐corset controversy—when influencer Nancy Tyagi claimed to have designed her showpiece look, but singer Neha Bhasin—and designer Surbhi Gupta—called her out.

The drama? A social-media explosion. Nancy said it was her handmade creation; Neha revealed proof she’d worn a similar corset by The Source Bombay before—and Surbhi noted that Nancy had bought the dress for ₹25K. Meanwhile, Diet Sabya traced the original chain-corset style to The Blonds and Raakesh Agarwal.

This isn’t just gossip—it’s a masterclass in fashion ethics. It highlights the difference between curated self-expression and rebranded iterations. Questions of originality, credit, and cultural appropriation came under the spotlight—all in one Cannes moment.

The ripple? Influencers and brands are reevaluating credit-sharing, transparency, and public representation. Meanwhile, Nancy’s case reminds us: in a digital age, no look stays private. If you’re selling creativity, ownership matters.

Final Take: This isn’t a curtains-down moment—it’s fashion’s accountability act. If we want Indian fashion to be seen as credible and creative, we must also ensure it’s credit-worthy. The corset may have been the garment—but the lesson is bigger: integrity is always in style.

Natasa Stankovic’s Bombay Times Fashion Week Return Is a Mom-Style Moment with Heart

Fashion

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June 27, 2025

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Image of Natasa Stankovic — Natasa Stankovic’s Bombay Times Fashion Week Return Is a Mom-Style Moment with Heart

After years away from the ramp, Natasa Stankovic made a powerful return at Bombay Times Fashion Week—and it wasn’t just her style that impressed—it was her resilience.

Walking the runway in elegant draped silhouettes infused with bold prints and luxe textures, Natasa brought runway drama—but in the sweetest twist, she was flanked by tears and cheers. Her son, Agastya, was her “tiniest cheerleader,” and Natasa admitted the moment shifted more than her shoes—it shifted her perspective.

What makes this comeback resonate? It’s a portrait of the modern Indian woman—multidimensional, career-driven, family-loving, and unapologetically stylish. Her interview taking viewers behind the scenes revealed vulnerability, strength, and a sense of reclamation.

As she revisited past choices—including her reality-show stint in Bigg Boss—Natasa said she often felt lost, unsure of her place. But on this ramp? She looked centered, radiant, and absolutely in control.

Final Take: Natasa’s FTW moment isn’t just a runway story—it’s a statement. It’s about rewriting narratives: fashion isn’t just for the early-career or single girl—it’s for moms, multifaceted women, and every person forging their own style timeline.

Jacqueline Fernandez’s Striped Co‑Ord Set Sparks K‑Pop-Inspired Fashion Frenzy in India

Fashion

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June 27, 2025

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Bollywood beauty Jacqueline Fernandez just made casual chic feel like star-level style again—thanks to her recent striped co-ord set that had fans doing the Korean heart sign IRL.

What made her look stand out? Simple but luminously styled: a fitted cropped top paired with matching high-waist trousers in a bold stripe combo—think refreshing cobalt meets sunlit white. She paired it with glossy lips, subtle electrical blue eyeliner, and sleek hair, giving off global muse meets desi diva energy.

Why the reaction? It’s rare for street-meets-casual to create such cultural crossover: Bollywood glamour meets K-pop language of hearts. Amid the blur of celebrity fashion, Jacqueline’s look was youthful, upbeat, and—most importantly—relatable. Fans were sliding into comments, recreating the style, and yes… even doing the Korean heart finger gesture in selfies.

The appeal has brands already circling. Think pastel-striped co-ords, graphic tees, and coordinating accessories in breezy prints. With lounge-luxe and travel fits surging post-pandemic, her outfit feels like perfect timing.

Final Take: Jacqueline didn’t just wear a co-ord set—she launched a mini movement. It’s a reminder that even simple separates, when styled right, can create massive conversation. Here’s hoping we see more cross-cultural translations from simple basics to community style statements.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee Isn’t Selling Luxury He’s Redefining It with Cultural Authenticity and Ethical Exclusivity

Fashion

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June 27, 2025

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Image of Ethical Exclusivity. — Sabyasachi Mukherjee Isn’t Selling Luxury—He’s Redefining It with Cultural Authenticity and Ethical Exclusivity

Fashion icon Sabyasachi Mukherjee recently reflected on a 25‑year journey in an insightful interview from his Kolkata office. Fresh off Met Gala success—dressing Shah Rukh Khan with historic gravitas—he’s doubling down on a philosophy that’s shaking luxury’s hierarchy.

“My brand is respected in India because everyone panders to the rich; we do not,” he said. It’s a bold claim. But what makes it resonate is the proof behind it: stories. He champions regional textiles, revives lost handlooms, and spins interviews into cultural consciousness instead of glossy runway drama.

The result? Sabyasachi isn’t selling price tags—he’s selling purpose. That means dresses with purpose statements; lehengas that carry hometown lore; suits that are architectural, not aspirational for elites only.

It’s a twist on luxury: instead of one-size-fits-all FOMO, he offers limited-edition soul—each piece is a curated legacy. And in an Instagram‑driven world of mass drops, his slow‑fashion couture feels revolutionary.

Final Take: Sabyasachi’s journey reminds us luxury isn’t about wealth—it’s about wealth of story, culture, and care. His brand landscape is proof heritage doesn’t just belong in museums—it belongs on our wrist, our runway, and in our lives.

Kriti Sanon Backs Sister Nupur’s Label Nobo with Chic Modeling Debut—Sibling Bond Meets Street Style Power

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June 27, 2025

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Image-of-Kriti-Sanon — Kriti Sanon Backs Sister Nupur’s Label Nobo with Chic Modeling Debut—Sibling Bond Meets Street Style Power

Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon recently stepped into a behind‑the‑scenes fashion moment, not as a red‑carpet star, but as the face of her sister Nupur Sanon’s newly launched brand, Nobo. The campaign is more than pretty faces—it’s a tribute to family, entrepreneurship, and sisterhood in the spotlight. That’s big news in an industry that’s just learning how to selfie well.

At the Bengaluru unveiling, Kriti walked in comfy, curated ensembles—think structured blazers, flowy dresses, and tunics that whispered “global chic” but stayed firmly rooted in Indian aesthetics. The color palette? Fresh pastels, earthy neutrals, and versatile cuts that go from “Brunch with the girls” to “First client meet” without missing a fashion beat.

This isn’t Nepo‑baby hype—it’s brand credibility. When your big sister is both stylist and CEO, it shows. And Nubo gains depth—not just labels selling clothes, but a lived-in narrative of support, creativity, and family vibes.

What makes this moment matter: India’s fashion ecosystem is pushing beyond just weddings and award shows. It’s becoming about accessible style, authentic voices, and who gets to be the stylist in their own story. When Kriti wears Nobo, she’s not just modeling—she’s establishing lineage (of talent and taste) as brand equity.

Final Take: The Nobo launch turns a celebrity cameo into a cultural nod—fashion can be familial, collaborative, and conversational. And in a world where every scroll demands a story, this one delivers sisterhood—and style—with sincerity.

Indian Snack House Raises ₹2.2 Cr from Titan Capital to Take Clean-Label South Indian Treats Like Tirunelveli Halwa & Pootharekulu Nationwide

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June 27, 2025

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In a win for snack lovers and nostalgia seekers alike, Chennai-based startup Indian Snack House has secured ₹2.2 crore in pre-seed funding, with Titan Capital leading the round. The young D2C brand, launched in 2023, is on a mission to take time-honoured South Indian sweets and savouries to kitchens across India — minus the artificial stuff.

This early cash injection will help the brand broaden its reach to more cities and digital storefronts, and add a wider range of traditional favourites from Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The goal? Give modern consumers a taste of home without the chemicals and palm oil — something that’s surprisingly hard to come by in today’s packaged snack aisles.

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The idea for Indian Snack House came from a simple frustration. Founders Rajakumaran and Anbarasan, both originally from the South, struggled to find clean, trustworthy versions of the sweets they grew up with after moving to bigger cities. So they did what any homesick foodies with entrepreneurial instinct might do — they decided to make their own.

And they didn’t stop at just reviving old-school recipes. The duo built the brand around a clean-label promise — no preservatives, no palm oil, no synthetic colours — while holding tightly to authenticity. That means treats like Tirunelveli Halwa, Srivilliputhur Palkova, Atreyapuram Pootharekulu, Dharwad Peda, and Kozhikode Halwa, made with the kind of care you’d expect from a grandmother, not a factory.

“We’re grateful to Kunal Bahl, Rohit Bansal, and everyone at Titan Capital for believing in what we’re building,” the founders said in a joint statement. “Their journey with early-stage brands gives us a lot of confidence as we grow. Our aim is to make Indian Snack House a go-to name for South Indian treats, both in India and abroad.”

A spokesperson from Titan Capital echoed the excitement: “There’s a real gap in the market when it comes to packaged South Indian snacks that are both clean and genuinely tasty. The team at Indian Snack House gets that balance — and we’re excited to support them as they grow.”

With the backing of one of India’s most seasoned startup investors, Indian Snack House is now gearing up to scale. And if all goes to plan, the next time you crave Pootharekulu or Palkova, you won’t need to call your aunt in Andhra — just open your phone.

Pulse Candy Hits ₹750 Cr in FY25: DS Group’s Raw Mango Marvel Dominates 19% of India’s Boiled Candy Market

Growth

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June 27, 2025

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Image of pulse — Pulse Candy Hits ₹750 Cr in FY25: DS Group’s Raw Mango Marvel Dominates 19% of India’s Boiled Candy Market

What started as a bold ₹1 bet in a market ruled by 50-paise sweets has now turned into a ₹750 crore juggernaut. Pulse, the cheeky, tangy candy from DS Group that first hit shelves in 2015, has clocked massive sales in FY 2024–25, selling roughly 750 crore units — that’s one candy for every Indian, five times over.

In a country obsessed with chatpata flavours, Pulse hit a nerve — or rather, a tastebud. Riding on the nostalgic pull of raw mango (which once dominated nearly half the boiled candy market), DS Group cracked the code with a centre-filled twist that gave a familiar flavour an unexpected kick. The result? India’s most widely distributed hard-boiled candy.

Over the past three years, Pulse has grown at a steady clip of 15% CAGR — outpacing the overall category, which has been hovering around 9%. That growth isn’t just about scale; it’s also about smart pivots and a deep understanding of what Indian consumers crave.

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“We didn’t just launch a new candy — we challenged how people see value,” said Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of DS Group. “Back when most of the market stuck to the 50-paise price point, Pulse launched at ₹1. It wasn’t about being expensive — it was about delivering a better, punchier experience.”

And the journey’s far from over. With a current market share of 19% in India’s hard-boiled candy space, DS Group is now eyeing more than just candy jars. The company plans to spin the Pulse brand into other formats, other categories, and other countries — all while holding on to its trademark Indian twist.

Domestically, DS Group’s vast distribution network covers over 35 lakh retail points, which has been key to Pulse’s scale and visibility. What began with a strong focus on reach has grown into a full-fledged candy supply chain machine — fast, efficient, and built to deliver.

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Looking ahead, DS Group wants to stretch Pulse beyond single-serve candies. The vision is to build a brand that shows up at more moments — festivals, gifting, snacking, maybe even in formats we haven’t seen yet.

It’s not just about sweets anymore. Pulse is becoming a flavour — and a feeling — all its own.

AC Lounges for Delivery Heroes: Chennai’s ₹25 Lakh Move Gives Swiggy, Zomato & Urban Company Workers a Place to Rest and Recharge

Quick Commerce

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June 27, 2025

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Image of zomato and urban company — AC Lounges for Delivery Heroes: Chennai’s ₹25 Lakh Move Gives Swiggy, Zomato & Urban Company Workers a Place to Rest and Recharge

In a much-needed gesture of respect and recognition, the Greater Chennai Corporation has unveiled two dedicated rest lounges for gig workers — a small but meaningful shift in how Indian cities treat the people who keep them running. These delivery personnel, often overlooked despite being everywhere, finally have a space to pause, recharge, and simply breathe.

Built at a cost of ₹25 lakh, the lounges are equipped with thoughtful amenities: cushioned seating for 25, phone charging stations, clean drinking water, and hygienic restrooms. But more than the design — inspired by clean, Scandinavian minimalism — it’s the intent behind them that stands out. These spaces acknowledge the physical toll and long hours that food, grocery, and parcel delivery workers face every single day.

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For delivery riders like Anupriya, the difference is deeply personal. “We didn’t have anywhere to go. We waited outside restaurants, often late into the night. Now there’s finally a place where I feel safe, especially as a woman,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the initiative and the state’s support.

Kalaiarasan, another gig worker, pointed out how Chennai’s brutal heat often left them drained. “After a tough delivery run, we’d sit wherever we could — under trees, in parks. This lounge is like a breath of fresh air.”

This pilot project is just the beginning. Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu had announced the plan during his budget speech, and now it’s come to life — first in Chennai, with Coimbatore in the pipeline. Depending on how well these initial lounges are received, the Corporation plans to scale the model across more areas in the city.

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While modest in scale, this initiative sends a strong message: dignity and comfort should not be luxuries for those who work the hardest. And in Chennai, at least, the wheels of change are beginning to turn.

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