According to a company advertisement, e-commerce giant Flipkart has changed the name of its grocery division from “Grocery” to “Kilos,” with the goal of offering daily necessities at discounted costs. Kilos is displaying extended delivery timeframes for goods comparable to Amazon’s Fresh, in contrast to Flipkart’s more recent rapid commerce offering Minutes. Kilos has a bright “NEW” tag on the Flipkart mobile app, and tapping it brings up a redesigned UI. On its website, meanwhile, selecting Kilos still takes users to the well-known Grocery interface.
New Business Strategies to Attract More Customers
Kilos is being promoted by Walmart-owned Flipkart through its BIG Bachat Day Sale, which includes deals and discounts. Additionally, the business has highlighted supermarket offers at “wholesale prices” in WhatsApp messaging. Similar to Amazon Fresh and other grocery delivery services, this tactic of promoting grocery stocking at the beginning of the month by offering discounts, card deals, and coupons is used. Whether Kilos provides anything more than a Grocery branding is still unknown.
The e-commerce giant has expressed optimism about its intentions to grow Flipkart Minutes, concentrating on expanding its network of dark stores by introducing more cities and categories to the site. Quick medication delivery has already been introduced in Bengaluru and Delhi, with plans to bring the service to other prestigious cities.
Current Landscape of India’s Quick Commerce Sector
A few major participants in India’s rapid commerce market—Zepto, Blinkit from Zomato, and Instamart from Swiggy—are engaged in fierce competition. With almost 11 million downloads across Google Play and the Apple App Store, Zepto was the most popular app. Blinkit has about 6.6 million downloads, compared to 9.8 million for Swiggy’s app, which includes Instamart. Dunzo received less than a million downloads, whereas Tata’s BigBasket e-commerce platform, which included BB Now in its main app, received over 3.5 million.
According to market share estimates, Blinkit leads with 45%, followed by Instamart with 27%, Zepto with 21%, and BB Now with 7%. When customers switched from small Kirana (neighbourhood) businesses to online platforms during the pandemic in 2021, the rapid commerce model—which at first focused on 10-minute deliveries—became popular in India.
In order to satisfy the increasing demand, rapid commerce businesses have now made significant investments in dark shopfronts, increased the range of products they offer, and improved their delivery systems. For example, Zepto operates 200–250 dark stores in major cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Mumbai.
Nandita, a young girl riding a moped through rough rural tracks, visiting scores of Kirana stores daily to learn about customer needs. That is the same girl who is now a famous leader, driving one of India’s largest fashion e-commerce platforms, Myntra to new heights. Nandita Sinha is a woman whose career is a compelling story of grit, intelligence and innovative leadership.
Nandita’s journey from her Lucknow beginnings to being CEO of Myntra is one of fearless choices and a steadfast dedication to excellence. An alumnus of IIT BHU and FMS Delhi, she has overcome the challenges at FMCG giants like Unilever and Britannia, was successful at Flipkart, and now leads Myntra to redefine fashion e-commerce.
In this StartupTalky story, we’ll look at how Nandita Sinha, who led Myntra, turned it into a global platform for international brands and technological innovation.
Although she is a very accomplished business leader, Nandita Sinha could not have become what she is today without her early life and education. Nandita was born and raised in Lucknow, India, in a family that loved education. Unsurprisingly, education was a cornerstone of her upbringing, having her household filled with very educated people, many of them having PhD, physicians, and engineers. This environment also suggested a strong foundation for her academic journey since it built in her mood of curiosity and quest for cognition from a young age.
Nandita says her mother, a physics teacher, was incredibly influential in her early years. As she grew, she was surrounded by intellectual curiosity and critical thinking bolstered by thought-provoking discussions and academic debates. Her studies weren’t just what she discussed with her peers but also what she and her peers discussed about the world, science, and technology. Her family pushed her to talk in conversations where she was allowed to break all the rules, including respectfully disagreeing with her parents. Her confidence and ability to think independently were nourished by being open-minded.
Right from the start, Nandita’s academic reputation was recognised. She then continued to study at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology BHU (now IIT Varanasi) for her undergraduate degree in Ceramic Engineering. It was a bold choice for a woman because very few women at the time chose this branch of engineering. However, it was far from conventional to pick ceramic engineering as a course at IIT BHU, and it was something Nandita was interested in trying out without any second thoughts.
It was transformative for her at IIT BHU. She further honed her problem-solving skills, intellectual discipline, and work ethic in one of India’s best of what they have to offer (or at least was/is then) in terms of a rigorous academic environment at one of India’s top institutes.
Nandita was a student of IIT BHU, which had one of the most challenging curricula and a student body that encouraged critical thinking. This was the perfect place for her to grow academically and personally. While there, she excelled in her studies and absorbed the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, which would later characterise her career.
Right after completing her B.Tech, Nandita was ready to conquer the world with her rock-solid academic base plus some considerable purpose. From here, her journey would take her into the corporate world, where her education and the values of courage and determination she had learned in her formative years would lead her to become the influential business leader she is today.
Nandita Sinha – Career
Nandita Sinha’s professional career marks her resilience, intelligence and ability to adapt to varied challenges. In 2004, she joined Unilever as a trainee manager. Nandita’s exploration in this role was exciting and formative, exploring facets from sales to marketing. It wasn’t just professionally enriching but personally transformative as she ventured into rural markets, riding on a broken-down truck on a moped and speaking to at least 50 Kirana store owners a day. However, these challenging but insightful interactions helped her hone her communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills, which became key components of her leadership style.
Nandita gained much experience and joined Britannia Industries, where she learned about consumer behaviour and market dynamics. Britannia and four good years at Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) have given her a grounding to handle challenging corporate problems. Over these years, she greatly benefited from the mentorship of seasoned sales officers who shared decades of wisdom and experience.
She believes this is where she’s reached a mental toughness and preparedness that will allow her to handle the tougher roles she will have in the future.
When Nandita set up the e-commerce program MyBabyCart, a baby product e-commerce platform, her entrepreneurial spirit emerged. Though the venture failed, it was an audacious choice to show that she was not afraid at all with her career choices. While she sought to balance her professional aspirations against the personal imperatives of new motherhood, she braved the dynamic startup ecosystem. It might have seemed like a short stint, but it was an invaluable experience in the world of e-commerce and digital retail.
Nandita joined Flipkart, India’s largest e-commerce platform, in August 2013. As an Associate Director, she began as a veritable whirlwind, handling the health and beauty verticals. Over her 8.5-year stint at Flipkart, she held a number of strategic roles, which helped us grow our Flipkart portfolio. She was the backbone of the organisation. Her capacity to spot opportunities and drive innovation while utilising her ability to accomplish strategies with precision was unmatched.
In January 2022, Nandita became CEO of Myntra, a fashion and lifestyle subsidiary of Flipkart. It was a new chapter in her career, and she was leading one of India’s most renowned fashion e-commerce platforms. During her time as Myntra’s CEO, she saw the business grow in leaps and bounds and made it a lean, fast-moving organisation.
When Nandita joined Myntra, the platform had around 280 international brands. By 2023, we were at 420, which was very much by design because she was determined to scale the platform’s global footprint. She also led the vertical integration of beauty products, making beauty Myntra’s fastest-growing category. Myntra Beauty was her vision to redefine the online beauty market and take it to phenomenal growth.
Her colleagues say Nandita’s career was defined by a rare combination of intelligence, grit, and empathy. Through the companies she has been a part of, her ability to think big while solving real-world problems has turbocharged various businesses. She has come up the ranks so fast and accomplished so much, but she is still very humble. She has always been ready to help others succeed and, as a result, is a respected leader in the industry.
Philosophy and Legacy
Nandita’s mantra for success is simple yet powerful: “Fear not; take every opportunity you find and use them.” She views challenges as opportunities and has an always forward, on-the-attack, adventurous spirit to take on obstacles.
She prefers to be known as an achiever, not a role model, highlighting her emphasis on results rather than accolades. Nandita Sinha’s journey has left an indelible mark on every organisation she has worked in and has set a benchmark for aspiring professionals and young women worldwide.
Nandita Sinha – Myntra
Myntra, one of India’s fashion and lifestyle platforms, will appoint Nandita Sinha as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on January 1, 2022. Her journey to the top of Myntra was one of hard work in the e-commerce and FMCG industry, where she gained experience in strategic planning, business development, and marketing innovation.
Sinha has helped Myntra strengthen its position in the highly competitive fashion industry. Her visionary approach has seen the platform reach a new phase of growth, with an emphasis on user engagement, technological advancement, and Myntra’s value proposition for its fashion-forward customer base.
Sinha contributed to Myntra’s portfolio diversification, which includes more than 6,000 brands, including global names such as H&M, Levi’s, U.S. Polo Assn, Tommy Hilfiger, MANGO, and Marks & Spencer. By fostering robust brand tie-ups, Myntra has been able to serve a wide demographic by offering premium and diverse fashion options to customers across the country.
Under her guidance, Myntra has expanded its operational footprint from 19,000 pin codes across India. This has further reinforced its accessibility and reach in both urban and rural areas, making Myntra available to customers from all around the country.
Myntra weathered the challenges, and its revenue for FY23 was INR 4,375.3 crore, showing that it’s a strong market player. However, it also noted that the e-commerce fashion sector was competitive and resource-intensive, resulting in a loss of INR 782 crore. Through these dynamics, Sinha has been instrumental in steering the company on long-term growth strategies.
Sinha has been a key driving force behind Myntra’s innovative initiatives, using technology and consumer insights to develop a better user experience. Myntra has risen as a leader, and this is all thanks to her efforts and a growing user base.
Sinha was recently given the extra responsibility of heading Flipkart Fashion and serving as the CEO of Myntra, a testament to her leadership capabilities. Sinha’s appointment comes after the exit of Arief Mohamad, Flipkart’s Vice President and Head of Fashion, which speaks to the trust and confidence the Flipkart Group has in her. While this expanded role, Flipkart Fashion and Myntra will continue to operate as separate entities, with Sinha providing strategic direction, as a whole, to the fashion segment within the group.
She has always been vocal about her commitment to democratising fashion in India. Her philosophy of leadership is to blend consumer-centric innovation with sustainable growth. With Myntra and Flipkart Fashion, she is doubling up to lead. Her focus is on creating memorable customer experiences, building strategic brand partnerships, and using the power of the Flipkart Group to create new benchmarks in the fashion industry.
Under Nandita Sinha’s leadership, Myntra has been transformed— growing, innovating, and expanding the market. While managing Myntra and Flipkart Fashion, her strategic insights and deep understanding of the e-commerce landscape promise to steer the Flipkart Group’s foray into fashion to a bright future.
Featured by the Economic Times in its ‘Women Ahead’ list
She is part of the Forbes 2024 W-Power List
‘Women of Worth’ recognition by Forbes India
People Focused CEO of the Year for our CEO, Nandita Sinha
Silver Award for Excellence in Cultivating a Culture of Trust and High Performance
Bronze Award for Excellence in Employer Branding
Recognised on the esteemed The Business of Fashion class of 2024
Nandita Sinha in Forbes 2024 W-Power List
Nandita Sinha – Interesting Facts
Before her corporate success, Nandita co-founded MyBabyCart.com, an e-commerce platform focused on baby and maternity products. Although the venture was short-lived, it drilled the entrepreneurial skills into her and paved the way for doors in the startup world.
While at Flipkart, she handled many roles in different categories, such as health and beauty, books, FMCG, home, and furniture.
Early in her career, Nandita spent months on a moped navigating rural areas, talking to Kirana store owners, which was key to her sales and customer understanding.
Under her leadership as CEO, Myntra’s international brand portfolio expanded from 280 in 2021 to 420 by 2023. She also helped the platform thrive in beauty, its fastest-growing category.
Nandita specialised in marketing and customer engagement and was instrumental in Flipkart’s iconic Big Billion Days sale.
An alumna of the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi and the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), University of Delhi, Nandita has a BA in Marketing and Strategy.
Nandita, though, is humble and doesn’t want to be a role model; she wants to be a woman achiever.
In fact, during her thirteen years in the company, she had the privilege of working with senior sales officers of Hindustan Unilever Limited, who spent a lot of time in their training and debut.
Much of her professional life is in the spotlight, and she has been able to keep much of her personal life, including details about her family and husband, private.
“As a leader, she has a combination of intellect, grit and empathy, which is rare,” say colleagues and industry professionals, including Flipkart Group CEO Kalyan Krishnamurthy, adding that she is a force to be reckoned with in the business world.
At Myntra, Nandita leads the company’s core mission with a leadership vision to make fashion accessible to all.
Nandita is famous for her adventurous outlook on life and work. She is also known for being head-on and a wake-up call!
According to SastaSundar Ventures, which runs digital platforms with a health focus, its collaboration with e-commerce behemoth Flipkart is now finished. B L Mittal, the founder and executive chairman of SastaSundar, told a news agency that SastaSundar Healthbuddy, a division of SastaSundar Ventures, had reclaimed the brand’s intellectual property rights (IPR) and non-compete agreements from Flipkart Health+ through its recently established subsidiary SastaSundar Healthtech.
Notably, in 2021, Flipkart Health, a subsidiary of Flipkart, purchased a 75% share in SastaSundar Healthbuddy. SastaSundar Ventures notified the stock exchanges in October 2024 that SastaSundar Healthbuddy has signed a share purchase agreement to transfer Flipkart Health Limited’s whole stake to Flipkart Health Private Limited, Singapore. Both preference and equity shares were sold as part of the transaction.
According to the company’s filing, SastaSundar Healthbuddy Limited, a significant subsidiary, will get the entire consideration of INR 97.17 Cr. According to Mittal, the business sold Flipkart a 75% ownership in SastaSundar Marketplace in 2021 for INR 750 Cr.
SastaSundar’s Business Operations
In an investor presentation in October 2024, the firm stated that it expected the brand to be profitable and planned to invest approximately INR 115 Cr in “technology and brand building” over the following three years. Notably, SastaSundar Ventures has two digital platforms: RetailerShakti, a B2B platform for the distribution of pharmaceutical and wellness products, and SastaSundar App, a B2C platform that offers pharmacy, diagnostic, and wellness services.
Flipkart Health, on the other hand, is an online pharmacy where customers can purchase medications, medical supplies, and wellness goods. Following Flipkart’s acquisition of SastaSundar, it was introduced in 2022.
Growing Network of 10 Min Medicine Delivery
Less than a month has passed since rumours circulated that Flipkart was preparing to introduce a 10-minute medication delivery service under its “Minutes” rapid commerce brand. According to reports at the time, the e-commerce giant had already begun enrolling neighbourhood pharmacies in major cities to supply medications.
The 10-minute medication delivery service is a noteworthy experiment that Flipkart is not the only one experimenting with. Foodtech titan Swiggy and e-pharmacy major PharmEasy launched a 10-minute medication delivery service in certain Bengaluru areas in October of last year. Next is BigBasket, which is supported by Tata and aims to take advantage of this whitespace by using its sister brand, Tata 1mg, to provide speedy medication delivery.
In addition, while only having one location in Bengaluru at the moment, Plazza, which was established in November 2024, has also become a rising force in the fast medication delivery market.
Every year, January 26th is observed with celebrations and patriotic fervor across the country. India is going to celebrate its 75th Republic Day this year.
Republic Day is commemorated with great excitement around the nation. With its start in Delhi’s Rajpath and finish at India Gate, the procession is the main attraction of the festivities. On this day, the President of the Republic raises the national flag at Rajpath in New Delhi. In addition to cultural programs, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force highlight India’s cultural and social past through parades and airshows.
Republic Day represents the spirit of Indian autonomy. These initiatives aim to find exceptional talent nationwide and give well-known businesses a chance to participate in Republic Day celebrations over the years. In this post, we’ll look at the top Republic Day campaigns that embody the soul of the nation’s pride and perseverance. These initiatives symbolize a company’s dedication to the principles that form the foundation of the Indian Republic, going beyond simple marketing efforts.
In a heartfelt tribute, Apollo Tyres released a touching digital video expressing unwavering support and respect for the nation’s defense forces. This CG-powered film showcases Apollo Tyres as a symbol of strength, standing alongside the forces in snowy landscapes, dense forests, and desert expanses. Set against the patriotic backdrop of “Vande Mataram,” the video serves as a simple yet powerful testament to Apollo Tyres’ commitment to honoring and supporting our armed forces.
Vistara
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Vistara
Vistara’s #RepublicDay campaign unveils ‘Vistara’s Symphony,’ a mesmerizing soundtrack inspired by India’s diverse sounds and instruments. This harmonious celebration reflects the cultural melodies of the nation, inviting passengers to immerse themselves in the rich musical heritage of India during their flights.
IIFL Home Loans
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – IIFL Home Loans
IIFL Home Loans introduces Bharosa Bhau, the fearless companion on the path from dreams to success. With the tagline “No fear when Bharosa Bhau is here! Ab Sapne #SaathHongeKaamyaab,” this campaign showcases a trustworthy partner confidently reassuring millions of Indians. By emphasizing trust and support, IIFL Home Loans aims to make the journey toward homeownership seamless and confident.
Axis Bank
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Axis Bank
Axis Bank’s campaign invites individuals to explore India in moments both ordinary and extraordinary, simple yet remarkable. By embracing the uniqueness of each experience, the campaign encourages viewers to uncover the India that authentically belongs to them, highlighting personal connections to the nation’s diverse culture and heritage.
Kia India
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Kia India
Kia India commemorates a generation of brilliant minds, paying homage to the great nation on its 75th Republic Day. The campaign reflects on the continuous inspiration drawn from the nation, celebrating innovation and progress, and extends warm wishes to everyone on this significant occasion.
Hisense India reflects on the journey from watching parades as kids to witnessing India’s soaring achievements. Embracing a blend of traditions and groundbreaking innovations, the campaign looks forward to the future, celebrating the nation’s progress and the spirit of Republic Day.
Bajaj Allianz Life
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Bajaj Allianz Life
Air India launched a stunning Republic Day ad that captured the essence of possibilities. With the tagline of “Together we soar,” it is an ode to the nation that is continually growing. Air India is embracing the spirit of progress and unity that proudly proclaims, “Desh Ka Naam #HarAasmaan.”
Air India launched a stunning Republic Day ad that captured the essence of possibilities. With the tagline of “Together we soar,” it is an ode to the nation that is continually growing. Air India is embracing the spirit of progress and unity that proudly proclaims, “Desh Ka Naam #HarAasmaan.”
Steadfast Nutrition
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Steadfast Nutrition
Steadfast Nutrition’s “Thakna Nahi, Rukna Nahi” campaign was a compelling call to combat urban fatigue with energy-boosting supplements. Celebrating the nation builders, the campaign highlights tangible performance enhancements that are achieved through Steadfast Nutrition products.
Godrej
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Godrej
Godrej’s Republic Day campaign of “Celebrating India’s Diamond Jubilee” with the hashtag #HeereJaisaMazboot was a salute to the nation’s strength and resilience. The campaign embodied a celebration of the country’s enduring spirit and its contributions on the global level.
Zupee
Republic Day Ad Campaigns – Zupee
The online gaming platform Zupee released a short film titled India Paasa Palat Raha Hai to help celebrate India’s triumphs over multiple sectors from the ‘Make in India’ initiative to the Chandrayaan Moon landing to our athletes proudly claiming medals at the international level. This video highlights the nation’s technological transformation as an emerging superpower.
Disney+ Hotstar
Disney+ Hotstar – Best Republic Day Ads
The core idea of Disney+ Hotstar’s Republic Day campaign is to celebrate the dual essence of independence and pride that define India’s identity. Using meticulously chosen images and stories, the streaming service distributes the country’s resilience, diversity, and the deeply held principles embodied in its constitution.
Visual aesthetics play an important part here, resulting in a symphony of colors, textures, and emotions that reflect India’s kaleidoscope. It invites viewers to participate in a celebration that is more than just entertainment—a celebration of independence, pride, and India’s unique tapestry.
Godrej For India
Godrej For India – Best Republic Day Ads
Godrej For India – Happy Republic Day” is a Godrej advertisement. The commercial wishes everyone a happy Republic Day and highlights the company’s dedication to the nation and its citizens. The advertising campaign presents a visually stunning trip showcasing India’s different landscapes, starting with the spectacular Himalayas and ending with the tranquil backwaters of Kerala.
Every frame captures the vivid colors and intricate cultural fabric that distinguishes India. It elicits an emotional response by appealing to the nostalgia associated with Godrej items in Indian households. Beyond the celebratory wishes, the campaign conveys a broader message of progress and unity. It emphasizes Godrej’s part in building strong families, encouraging creativity, and accompanying the country’s growth toward a more progressive India.
HP India
HP – Best Republic Day Campaign
Under the banner of Republic Day celebrations, HP India emphasizes the critical importance of freedom of expression in a democratic society. The ad sets out on an illustrated journey highlighting the value of respectful expression in creating a progressive society. The imagery in the campaign reflects the dynamism and diversity of modern India. The utilization of HP devices symbolizes the revolutionary influence that technology can have on an individual’s freedom of expression.
Parle-G
Best Republic Day Ads — Parle-G | Republic Day
Parle-G commemorated India’s 73rd Republic Day with a unique ‘Bharat Ka Apna Biscuit’ campaign highlighting the brand’s strong link with the country. Piyush Mishra, a well-known actor, is the campaign’s star, which tells the story of India’s relationship with the brand across time and its famous Rs. 5 biscuits. The campaign intends to tap into the emotional thread that connects every Indian to the brand, transforming Parle-G into a cultural phenomenon rather than merely a biscuit.
Parle-G’s storytelling is inclusive, showcasing characters from various walks of life, locations, and age groups. The characters in the campaign reflect India’s variety, underlining the concept that Parle-G is a unifying force that transcends boundaries.
India Gate
Best Republic Day Ads – India Gate Basmati Rice
Grains of Hope is a touching project launched by India Gate to honor the countless contributions made by individuals and organizations who act as agents of positive social change. This well-thought-out campaign revolves around the relationship between education, community, and nutrition. India Gate uses storytelling to increase the impact of its efforts on the lives of millions of youths.
In keeping with the spirit of Republic Day, the campaign discretely incorporates patriotic undertones by underlining the critical role that nutrition, in the form of the humble khichdi seen eaten by the schoolchildren, plays in developing a healthier, more resilient nation.
Mahindra
Best Republic Day Ads – Mahindra Wishes All Happy Republic Day | Mahindra Truck And Bus
Mahindra Truck and Bus have launched a touching Republic Day advertising campaign called “Sadak Ke Sipahi,” honoring the unsung heroes who drive India’s highways and back roads. The campaign pays homage to the backbone of the country’s transport infrastructure. Mahindra Truck and Bus wish the country a Happy Republic Day, emphasizing the nation’s courageous drivers’ vital role in paving the way for growth. Their message is one of courage and gratitude. It carefully mixes stories of sacrifice, determination, and companionship among the drivers, expressing the country’s sense of harmony. Mahindra’s Republic Day wishes are more than just a greeting. It lays the groundwork for gratitude.
SBI Life Insurance
SBI Life Insurance – Best Republic Day Campaign
In honor of the 70th Republic Day celebration, SBI Life Insurance debuted an impressive advertising campaign that transcended the present day and allowed viewers to travel across the country’s rich past in just seventy seconds. This capsule sought to instill a sense of pride and admiration for India’s rich heritage. The hashtag #CelebrateLife serves as a call to action for viewers to respect the past, enjoy the present, and look forward to the future with hope.
Flipkart
Flipkart – Best Republic Day Ads
With a touching ad titled “Happy Republic Day. #NayeIndiaKeSaath,” Flipkart, one of the pioneers in the eCommerce space, expressed genuine greetings on the bright 73rd Republic Day of India. The campaign’s fundamental message is unity in diversity, reflecting the ethos of a progressive India. The visuals, which range from the calm countryside to the busy streets of big cities, depict the rainbow of experiences that make up a more contemporary India and position Flipkart as a driver for its tech-savvy customers.
Ambuja Cement
zepublic ay dvertisement – A patriotic film by Ambuja Cement Ltd
Ambuja Cement Ltd. is a leading cement manufacturer in India, noted for its high-quality products and innovative solutions. The 72nd Republic Day of India commemorates a time when the world and nation were gradually recovering from the impacts of the pandemic. Through this heartwarming short film, “The School,” Ambuja Cement wants to emphasize that terrible times may come and go, but the nation’s patriotic spirit must remain unshakeable, intact, and resilient. As a symbolic backdrop, the school becomes a microcosm of a resilient India. Cinematic brilliance shows the evolution of a school that, like the nation, rises tall despite its challenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Republic Day celebrations are a moment to appreciate our country’s rich past and diversity and an opportunity for businesses to interact with the audience through intriguing advertising campaigns. The power of narrative mixed with a strong message of unity and progress is a successful recipe for marketers looking to make a meaningful impression during Republic Day celebrations. The most effective Republic Day advertisements go beyond simple marketing; they inspire a sense of pride in the general public and connect them with the spirit of patriotism. This is precisely what the initiatives described in this piece do.
Ambarish Kenghe, a former Google Pay executive, has been appointed as the new group chief executive officer (CEO) of listed online stock broking giant Angel One. Angel One stated in a filing with the exchanges that Kenghe will begin working for the company on March 6, 2025, at the latest. Kenghe, who attended Purdue University, joined Google Pay in 2018 as vice president and general manager for the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. He was involved in the creation of Chromecast and Google TV at Google and was instrumental in growing the digital payments platform. He formerly worked as a strategic consultant for San Francisco’s Bain & Company and as the chief product officer at Myntra.
Exciting New Era for Angel One: Thakkar
Dinesh Thakkar, the managing director and chairman of Angel One, commented on the hiring, saying that Ambarish’s appointment as managing director ushers in a thrilling new era for the company. With his extensive industry knowledge and demonstrated ability to drive innovation, he is the visionary leader the company needs to launch into its next phase of expansion. In 1996, Angel One—previously known as Angel Broking—was established. The business provides financial product distribution, investment advising, and broking services. Thanks to its digital play, it has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. As of the end of December 2024, its “total client base” had grown to 29.5 million, a 52% year-over-year (YoY) increase.
With four patents under his belt, Kenghe is a prolific innovator who epitomises technical know-how and inventiveness. His excellent academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from AMU, a master’s degree in computer science from Purdue University, a master’s degree in computer science and engineering from IIT Kanpur, and an MBA from UC Berkeley.
“I am incredibly honoured to be a part of Angel One, a brand that has been at the forefront of transforming India’s fintech landscape,” Kenghe said as he stepped into his new role at Angel One. Angel One has established a solid basis via its emphasis on innovation and customer-centricity. In order to propel the next stage of growth and provide users with cutting-edge financial solutions, “I am excited to collaborate with the outstanding team.”
Financial Developments at Angel One
Angel One’s net profit increased 8.1% to INR 281.4 Cr in the third quarter (Q3) of the fiscal year 2024–25 (FY25) from INR 260.3 Cr in the same time last year. From INR 1,059 Cr in Q3 FY24 to INR 1,262.2 Cr, operating revenue increased 19%. The most recent appointment was made months after the company hired Arief Mohamad, a former Flipkart executive, to lead its direct business as its chief business officer in October 2024.
Flipkart Fashion has always been more than just an online destination for style enthusiasts. It’s a brand that understands its audience—fashion-savvy Millennials and Gen Z—and consistently finds innovative ways to engage with them.
When it comes to blending innovation and relatability, Flipkart Fashion knows how to make a statement. Their latest move turned a high-energy concert into an unexpected stage for their End of Season Sale (EOSS), proving that smart marketing doesn’t always need a spotlight—it just needs the right context.
Here’s what happened:
At a packed concert filled with excitement, attendees weren’t just vibing to the music—they were noticing something clever happening right around them. Flipkart Fashion became the talk of the event through witty placards carried by concert-goers.
These placards, featuring lines like “It’s okay concert tickets pe paise udaye par fashion pe bacha liye,” didn’t feel like ads. They felt like a part of the moment, a tongue-in-cheek nod to the realities of balancing life expenses with a love for fashion. The crowd couldn’t help but laugh and relate, and soon the messages were everywhere—shared on Instagram Stories, meme pages, and even LinkedIn.
Flipkart Fashion Creative Marketing at the Concert
What Made This Campaign Click?
It wasn’t just the humor. Flipkart Fashion’s genius lies in blending relatability, timing, and cultural awareness.
Being where it matters: They showed up where their audience naturally hangs out—at live events, where energy is high, and moments are memorable.
A touch of realness: The placards spoke directly to the struggles and joys of adulting, like juggling concert tickets and wardrobe upgrades, striking a chord with Millennials and Gen Z alike.
Effortless virality: The campaign didn’t scream for attention—it created content that people wanted to share, effortlessly amplifying its reach.
Why This Works as a Case Study in Modern Marketing:
Flipkart Fashion’s approach wasn’t about pushing sales; it was about connecting in an authentic, understated way.
Cultural relevance: By aligning their campaign with a live concert, they became part of the shared experience, making their presence feel natural and unforced.
Understanding the audience: The messaging resonated because it was crafted around the lives of their target audience, making the campaign as relatable as it was entertaining.
Content that travels: A simple, clever idea turned into something far bigger, proving that smart, minimalist marketing can create a lasting impact.
Flipkart Fashion’s EOSS campaign didn’t just advertise their sale—it made their brand a part of a cultural moment. And in today’s landscape, that’s what stands out.
E-commerce giant Flipkart has teamed up with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to invest in and coach up-and-coming entrepreneurs in the nation in an effort to support the domestic startup ecosystem. Flipkart will support early-stage entrepreneurs through Flipkart Leap and Ventures, its startup accelerator, in accordance with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) that the two parties signed. Through the accelerator, the Walmart-backed company provides seed funding to Series A startups, with cheque sizes ranging from $200K to $500K. According to a statement from the e-commerce giant, Flipkart will also assist the up-and-coming businesses with the development of their prototypes and with entering foreign markets by offering infrastructure support.
Flipkart Claims To Have Supported 20 Startups Till Now
The organisation claims to have sponsored 20 startups through its accelerator since its founding in 2022, while it did not specify how many startups it plans to back. It has made investments in a number of firms, including FlexiflyMe, Dopplr, and NeuroPixel.AI. The accelerator fund has a $100 million size. According to Rajneesh Kumar, chief corporate affairs officer at Flipkart, the company hopes to use its $100 million venture fund to help entrepreneurs make ground-breaking discoveries that will influence technology and business in India and beyond.
In contrast, the DPIIT will give selected entrepreneurs access to industry reports, research papers, datasets, and other studies produced by government agencies for market research and expedited patent applications submitted by startups, as well as connections within the Startup India ecosystem. The innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that propels country’s development is embodied in India’s startup ecosystem. According to DPIIT director Sumeet Jarangal, this Memorandum of Understanding would strengthen India’s position as a global innovation leader by accelerating the conversion of ideas into meaningful solutions by leveraging the strengths of both parties.
Startup India’s Joint Secretary, Sanjiv Singh, underlined the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding in promoting an innovative and entrepreneurial culture, which are essential for India’s development. According to him, the collaboration would improve India’s standing as a worldwide leader in innovation by fostering an atmosphere that would enable companies to turn their concepts into useful solutions. He added that this partnership would give startups the boost they need to reach new heights and make significant contributions to the country’s technological and economic development.
DPIIT Forging Partnerships to Strengthen Startups’ Ecosystem
In recent months, DPIIT has formed four partnerships to support the Indian startup ecosystem. It joined together with HCLSoftware in October to advance its manufacturing incubator programme. Additionally, it established a business incubator in Gujarat in collaboration with Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India. Additionally, last week, the DPIIT teamed up with Moglix, a B2B e-commerce platform, to support manufacturing firms. The changes occur at a time when the startup scene in India is expanding rapidly. As of October 31, 2024, DPIIT-registered businesses have generated over 16.67 lakh direct jobs in over 55 industries, according to a statement made earlier this month by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
Sachin Bansal, an Indian entrepreneur and innovator, has carved a unique path in the business world. Known for co-founding Flipkart, India’s major e-commerce platform, and later as the founder of Navi Technologies, his work has reshaped two major industries: retail and financial services.
From selling books online to revolutionizing the financial inclusion landscape, Sachin’s career showcases his determination and visionary thinking. Let’s dive into the inspiring story of this successful entrepreneur and learn more about Sachin Bansal’s education, career, net worth, and more.
Sachin Bansal – Biography
Name
Sachin Bansal
Birth
August 5, 1981
Birth Place
Chandigarh, India
Education
Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi
Born on August 5, 1981, in Chandigarh, India, Sachin was raised in a modest middle-class family. His childhood was marked by a natural curiosity and interest in technology. Encouraged by his family to pursue education seriously, Sachin excelled in academics. He eventually secured a spot at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he graduated in 2005 with a degree in Computer Science.
At IIT Delhi, Sachin’s technical knowledge and problem-solving skills began to take shape. His education instilled a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software development—skills that would prove invaluable in his future endeavors.
After graduating, Sachin began his professional journey at Techspan, a technology startup. Seeking to work in a more dynamic environment, he later joined Amazon India as a software engineer. At Amazon, he was introduced to the potential of e-commerce and became fascinated with creating something similar in India.
In 2007, Sachin and his IIT batchmate Binny Bansal decided to leap into entrepreneurship. They launched Flipkart, initially an online bookstore, from a small apartment in Bengaluru with a small personal investment. With the tagline “Ab Har Wish Hogi Poori” (Every Wish Will Be Fulfilled), Flipkart aimed to make online shopping easy and trustworthy for Indian consumers.
Flipkart’s growth was rapid and revolutionary. Starting with just two employees and a handful of books, the platform soon expanded into electronics, fashion, home goods, and groceries. Its success was driven by customer-centric policies like cash on delivery, a user-friendly website, and hassle-free returns.
To scale operations, Sachin introduced Flipkart’s own logistics network, Ekart, which became a game-changer in ensuring faster deliveries. By 2018, Flipkart had over 100 million registered users, making it the largest e-commerce platform in India. That same year, Walmart acquired a majority stake in the company for $16 billion, the largest acquisition in Indian corporate history. Sachin’s vision and leadership played a key role in creating this unprecedented success story
Sachin Bansal – Navi Technologies
After exiting Flipkart, Sachin ventured into the fintech sector by founding Navi Technologies in 2018. The company focuses on simplifying financial services for Indians, offering affordable personal loans, health insurance, and investment solutions.
Navi was born out of Sachin’s observation that many Indians lacked access to reliable and transparent financial products. With a digital-first approach, Navi uses technology to reduce paperwork, streamline approvals, and make services accessible to people in underserved areas.
Under Sachin’s leadership, Navi quickly gained traction, raising significant capital in the previous years and aiming for a valuation of multiple billion dollars by 2024. This success solidified Sachin’s reputation as a serial entrepreneur capable of succeeding across industries.
Both Flipkart and Navi came with their share of challenges. During Flipkart’s early days, the Indian e-commerce market was uncharted territory. Sachin and Binny faced skepticism from investors and logistical hurdles in delivering products to remote locations. At Navi, regulatory complexities in the financial services sector and fierce competition have presented significant obstacles.
However, Sachin’s ability to learn from failures and his focus on execution helped him navigate these difficulties. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance and adapting to changing market needs.
Sachin Bansal – Personal Life
Despite his professional commitments, Sachin maintains a relatively private personal life. He is married to Priya Bansal, a dentist, and the couple prefers staying away from media attention. They have one son together. Sachin is known for his disciplined lifestyle and work ethic, often working long hours to ensure the success of his ventures.
In interviews, Sachin has emphasized the importance of balance, highlighting the need to stay grounded amidst the highs and lows of entrepreneurial life.
Interestingly, he is an online gaming enthusiast.
Sachin Bansal – Investments
Sachin Bansal has also emerged as a significant investor in the Indian startup ecosystem. Some of his notable investments include:
Over the years, Sachin has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the business world:
Economic Times Entrepreneur of the Year (2013)
86th in Forbes India’s Richest (2015)
Time 100 Most Influential People (2016)
The ‘NDTV Indian of the Year award’ in the year (2016)
Economic Times Game Changer of the Decade (2020)
Sachin Bansal – Impact on the Entrepreneurial World
Sachin Bansal’s entrepreneurial journey has left an indelible mark on India’s business landscape. By making online shopping mainstream through Flipkart and addressing financial inclusion challenges through Navi, he has significantly contributed to India’s digital and economic progress.
His story is one of resilience and relentless pursuit of innovation. By leveraging technology to solve real-world problems, Sachin continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to dream big and act boldly.
In his own words, Sachin Bansal’s career is a testament to the transformative power of determination and creativity.
FAQ
What does Sachin Bansal do now?
Sachin Bansal is currently the Executive Director and CEO of Navi, a financial services company.
Are Sachin and Binny Bansal brothers?
No, Sachin and Binny Bansal are not brothers. They are former colleagues who co-founded Flipkart.
Who is the Flipkart owner?
The owner of Flipkart company is Walmart, which acquired a controlling stake of 77% for $16 billion in 2018, valuing the company at $21 billion at the time Walmart further increased its stake to 80.5% in July 2023 by purchasing additional shares for $3.5 billion. The co-founders, Sachin Bansal and Binny Bansal, no longer hold any stake in the company following the acquisition.
What is Sachin Bansal’s Education?
Sachin Bansal graduated from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) in 2005 with a degree in Computer Science.
What is Sachin Bansal net worth?
Sachin Bansal’s net worth is $1.2 billion, as of December 2024.
The purchase of a portion of Flipkart, a Walmart group company, by Alphabet affiliate Shoreline International Holdings LLC has been authorised by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). A wholly owned subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, Shoreline International will purchase shares in Flipkart.
According to the CCI, the deal entails an investment in Flipkart Pvt Ltd as well as a contract for particular service provisions between an Alphabet affiliate and Flipkart’s subsidiary. The primary activities of Flipkart, a prominent e-commerce platform, are marketplace-based e-commerce services and wholesale trading. The CCI revealed in a post on X that the Commission had authorised the subscribing of Flipkart Pvt Ltd shares by Shoreline, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc.
Flipkart’s Recent Funding
Google joined Walmart in contributing $350 million as a minority investor in Flipkart’s extended investment round in May. With this investment, the domestic marketplace’s valuation increased to $36 billion, bringing its total capital to $950 million. Google’s financing was meant to help Flipkart expand into new financial and fast commerce enterprises as well as into established major categories like Cleartrip and Shopsy.
According to Flipkart’s official announcement, Google’s proposed investment and its cloud collaboration will help the company grow and modernise its digital infrastructure so it can serve customers nationwide. Walmart, the company that controls 85% of Flipkart, strengthened Flipkart’s standing in the market by contributing $600 million to the fundraising effort.
Streamlining Regulations
The CCI pointed out that Alphabet’s stake is an “extremely small and non-controlling acquisition of shareholding” and affirmed that Flipkart and Alphabet will continue to function separately. As stated in its order, the competition watchdog stressed that the focus of its investigation was possible impacts on the cloud services market in India.
However, CCI stated in the order that if the Hon’ble Commission were to evaluate the impacts on competition, it should only consider the markets that are directly impacted by the proposed merger, specifically the Indian cloud services market.
Flipkart’s Dominance in the Indian Market
With the $36 billion investment, Flipkart is the market leader in India’s e-commerce sector, catering to hundreds of millions of customers in smaller cities and villages. According to Bernstein, Flipkart, which also owns the fashion e-commerce company Myntra, controls roughly 48% of the Indian e-commerce market.
Amazon, Meesho, which is supported by SoftBank, Reliance Retail, and an expanding number of quick-commerce applications, are competitors of Flipkart. The largest retail chain in India is operated by Reliance Retail, which is rapidly trying to develop an e-commerce strategy. It is owned by Mukesh Ambani, the richest man in Asia. Last year, QIA, ADIA, and KKR invested close to $2 billion in Reliance Retail, which was valued at $100 billion. According to Bernstein, India’s e-commerce market is expected to reach a value of $133 billion by the following year.
American retail giant Walmart said on 19 November that its third-quarter foreign sales were boosted by Flipkart’s ‘Big Billion Days’ sales event in India. Walmart, which uses a fiscal year that runs from February to January, recorded sales of $31.5 billion from its overseas division, representing an increase of 12.4% in constant currency.
According to Walmart’s earnings announcement, the timing of Flipkart’s The Big Billion Days (BBD) event helped growth in Q3 and will have an effect on growth in Q4. Walmart International, which has operations in 18 countries outside of the US, including India, reported that Flipkart, Walmex (Mexico), and China were the top three nations in terms of sales growth.
Details of Q3 Sales’ Growth
Walmart International stated that marketplace and store-fulfilled pickup and delivery were the main drivers of the 43% increase in e-commerce sales in the third quarter. Furthermore, it stated that Flipkart spearheaded the 50% growth in Walmart International’s advertising division. For the 2024 festive season, Flipkart’s Big Billion Days sales event began on September 26 and ran through October 6.
However, Walmart also stated that the scheduling change of Flipkart’s The Big Billion Days (BBD) sales event, which was held earlier, “partially offset” its overall gross profit. The Flipkart Big Billion Days sale in 2023 ended on October 8 and ran through October 15.
Gross Profit Rate and Overall Performance of the Company
Compared to the same period last year, the company’s gross profit rate increased to 24.2% for the quarter. Walmart said that the schedule change of Flipkart’s BBD sales event largely negated the increase. In the meantime, the shift in BBD scheduling caused Walmart International’s gross profit rate to drop by 85 basis points. Growth in Q3 benefited from Flipkart’s BBD event timing, while growth in Q4 will be impacted.
Flipkart reported last month that it received 7.2 billion visitors during this year’s festive season. It further stated that over the festive season, vendors saw a 40–50% YoY increase. In the third quarter, Walmart’s operating income was $6.7 billion. This was a 14% decrease from the $7.9 billion in the previous quarter, but an 8% gain over the $6.2 billion in the previous year. Flipkart is currently trying to reduce its losses and strengthen its top line. In the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24), Flipkart Internet, the company’s marketplace division, reported a 41% YoY decrease in its net loss to INR 2,358 Cr. Over the course of the year, its operating revenue increased by 21% to INR 17,907.3 Cr.
In 2018, Walmart paid $16 billion to acquire a 77% controlling stake in Flipkart. After that, it increased its ownership and currently holds more than 80% of the largest e-commerce company with its headquarters in Bengaluru.
Nitin Konde
