MAM
Artist Santanu Hazarika’s sneaker collaboration sells out rapidly
Mumbai: In an unprecedented phenomenon, renowned artist Santanu Hazarika and homegrown lifestyle brand Comet’s latest collaboration – a capsule collection of 300 pairs of sneakers – rapidly sold out within only two hours of its drop, marking the very time a homegrown sneaker collaboration has sold out in record time!
Comet, a trailblazing force in the sneaker industry, is renowned for its bold designs and innovative approach to footwear. With a commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing creativity, Comet has carved a distinct identity in the world of streetwear. Their collaboration with renowned artist and sneakerhead Santanu Hazarika signifies a fusion of rebellious expression and artistic vision. Through this partnership, Comet continues to redefine the sneaker landscape, offering consumers a unique blend of style, substance, and self-expression.
A name synonymous with the sneaker culture in India, Santanu had recently joined hands with Comet for the sneaker line. The collaboration was not just cool kicks but embodied the dynamic convergence of underground art, pop culture, and the sneaker revolution married with rebellion and expression. Taking inspiration from punk, heavy metal and anti-establishment sentiments, where the shoes featured vivid colours and design elements like thorns, a shooting star with an eye, and collar tabs that spelt out ‘Silent’ and ‘Scream’ to symbolise voices that have always echoed in silence. The line perfectly reflected Santanu’s sketchbook style and a disciplined expression that harmonised the silence of rebellion with a loud, unapologetic scream, striking a chord with the audience.
The sneaker line went live last Thursday on the brand’s website and was off the shelves in a record time of two hours, thereby underscoring the audience’s anticipation for the collection.
Talking about the success of this drop, Santanu shared, “As an artist, having my sneaker line was on my bucket list, so this is like my childhood dream come true! During the designing process, I had complete creative liberty. But naturally, there was some nervousness about this first-time collaboration. So, a complete sellout in only a few hours was definitely surprising! This has made me truly believe in the power of community.”
“We are thrilled and humbled by the overwhelming response to our collaboration with Santanu Hazarika. The lightning-fast sellout of our limited edition drop in just two hours is a testament to the acceptance we as a brand have received from the vibrant community we are building with Comet. We are honoured to see the enthusiasm and passion our customer base has created for self-expression and creativity. This achievement only strengthens our commitment to nurturing a community where authenticity thrives and consumers are encouraged to embody our brand ethos of “Never Shy, Never Sorry’,” remarked Comet founder Utkarsh Gupta.
BigBang.Social chief executive officer Anurag Iyer, added, “BigBang Social is proud to be the force to facilitate this association between Santanu and Comet, an ultimate combination of an extraordinary artist and a sought-after homegrown brand. Through the creator economy, we’re unleashing a tidal wave of creativity and innovation that knows no bounds. In this new-age digital economy where creators play an integral part in shaping culture, inspiring change, and building communities, we believe in empowering them to own their language and monetising their passions that foster a richer, more diverse cultural landscape.
Santanu intends to foray into the gaming industry and tech merchandise with his designs. The artist plans to launch esports jerseys, gaming gear, and all sorts of electronic gadgets.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
