MAM
Aptronix partners with smule for the first ever smule all star jam
MUMBAI: Apple’s largest Premium Reseller in India, Aptronix is partnering with Smule, world’s #1 singing app for the launch of Aptronix’ first major retail experience in the country. The launch is slated for this weekend in Mumbai.
Smule is a community of music lovers and brings together fans, artists and their unflinching passion for music. The fact that Smule is a top grosser on the App Store is testimony to its popularity and success. Smule in partnership with Times Bridge aims to bring music back to its roots by playing a pivotal role in transforming the music landscape from one of passive listening to collaborative creation.
To celebrate this partnership, Smule has organised a Smule All Star Jam, which will be a first of its kind Live Smule experience in India. The event will include live performances, musical sessions and a masterclass with leading Indian music artists, including renowned music composer and singer Salim Merchant, popular playback singer Nikhita Gandhi and the winner of India's first Smule Mirchi Cover Star – Ashmik Patil.
For the first time, for an Indian live audience, Salim Merchant will share insights on the art of composing while also singing some of his favourite milestone tracks. The event will also witness the first ever Live Duet with fans, led by popular singer Nikhita Gandhi performing with talent from the Smule community.
Music composer and singer Salim Merchant said, "I’m excited about the masterclass and I’m really looking forward to meeting budding musicians and sharing my journey with them."
Singer Nikhita Gandhi said, "I love that we live in a world that can connect singers with fans so easily because at the end of the day we are all just fans and avid lovers of music! Thank you Smule for making karaoke so fun and I'm surely looking forward to the LIVE experience!"
Commenting on the partnership Viral Jani, Sr Vice President, Times Bridge said, “We are delighted with the overwhelming response that Smule has received from the Indian music enthusiasts, and what better way to celebrate it than with the All Star Jam, bringing together people who are passionate about music, under one roof. The partnership for the launch of India's first Flagship Apple Premium Reseller Store by Aptronix is special as Apple has been a great global partner for Smule.”
Commenting on the unique launch, Meghna Singh, Director, Aptronix – Premium Lifestyle & Fashion India Pvt. Ltd. (PLFIPL), said, “Connecting not just people but souls the world over, music is a language that spells love, joy and passion. In tandem with today’s technologically savvy and fast paced world, Smule comes in as a wave of melodic freshness and rhythmic notes.”
“Taking the concept of sharing beyond borders, I love that the Smule app lets one sing and create music to share with friends and artists around the globe! Enabling music to go a full circle, they have created a world of their own and I am happy to be a part of it. I look forward to putting technology at its best use – to connect people and make the world a closer and harmonious place striking a peaceful chord!” she added.
Brands
Nykaa eyes majority stake in Deepika Padukone’s 82°E brand
Deal could help scale premium label as Nykaa sharpens its beauty play
MUMBAI: Nykaa is in advanced discussions to acquire a majority stake in 82°E, the premium skincare label founded by Deepika Padukone, according to media reports.
The proposed deal signals Nykaa’s intent to deepen its House of Nykaa portfolio while giving 82°E the scale it has struggled to achieve independently. Padukone is expected to retain a minority stake if the transaction goes through.
For Nykaa, the play is both strategic and timely. With a customer base of over 42 million, the company is betting on its strong distribution, logistics, and repeat purchase ecosystem to revive the brand’s momentum. The two sides already share a working relationship, with Padukone serving as Nykaa’s global brand ambassador since September 2025.
Launched in late 2022, 82°E entered the market with a premium positioning but has faced headwinds. The brand reported revenue of Rs 14.7 crore in FY25, down 30 per cent year on year, alongside losses of Rs 12.26 crore. Industry observers have pointed to steep pricing, a somewhat diffused brand identity, and intense competition from digital-first labels as key challenges.
The potential acquisition also reflects a broader shift in India’s beauty and lifestyle space, where celebrity-led brands are increasingly partnering with larger corporates to unlock scale. Alia Bhatt’s Ed-a-Mamma, for instance, sold a majority stake to Reliance Retail, while Katrina Kaif’s Kay Beauty has emerged as a standout success within Nykaa’s portfolio, clocking Rs 132.4 crore in FY25 revenue.
Nykaa itself has been on a strong growth trajectory. Its parent, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, reported a 156 per cent jump in net profit to Rs 68 crore in the December 2025 quarter, with revenue reaching Rs 2,873 crore.
Nykaa has been steadily building its portfolio through acquisitions such as Dot & Key, Earth Rhythm and Nudge Wellness, signalling a clear push to own and scale homegrown brands.
If the 82°E deal materialises, it could mark a fresh chapter for the label, blending celebrity appeal with corporate muscle. For Nykaa, it is another calculated step in staying ahead in an increasingly crowded beauty aisle.
