Brands
Croma unveils spectacular alpona on Howrah Bridge to celebrate Durga Pujo
Mumbai: In a magnificent celebration of Kolkata’s rich cultural heritage, Croma, a Tata Enterprise, proudly unveiled the first-of-its-kind beautiful Alpona painting on the iconic Howrah Bridge in association with Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Trust to welcome Maa Durga. The Alpona is beautifully crafted on motifs based on electronic gadgets, portraying the importance electronics play in people’s lives. This grand inauguration witnessed an overwhelming response with large crowds gathering to admire the beautiful Croma alpona that marks the onset of the auspicious Durga Pujo festival in the city, bringing together tradition and innovation in a captivating display of artistry.
Through the magnificent larger-than-life alpona painting on the Howrah Bridge, Croma connected with its customers on a deeper, more emotional level with a message to upgrade their lifestyle through technology. It is a testament to the fact that its customers are the focus of all they do in line with their commitment. Crafted by skilled and popular artist Sanjay Paul and his team, including Anwesak Dawn and 80-plus students from the Government Art College were involved in creating the beautiful Alpona, encapsulating the spirit and artistic traditions of Kolkata. It pays homage to the city’s diverse cultural tapestry, uniting locals and visitors alike in celebration. It is conceptualised by the Croma team and Futuera Inc. and executed by The Brand Street.
Speaking on occasion, Croma chief operating officer Shibashish Roy said, “We launched our first store in Kolkata in 2019, and, since then, we have scaled up rapidly over the last two years with 14 stores to cater to the growing demand. We are delighted to participate in the festivities and play an integral role in connecting with the sentiments of the locals. We’re here to complement our discerning customers’ electronics shopping experience. With our unique customer service and a wide array of gadgets under one roof, we aim to make this Puja season truly special for everyone.”
In addition, Croma will also be visible in Puja pandals across the city, namely Mudiali Trikone Park, Chorbagan Sarbojonin, Dum Dum Tarun Dal, Ahiritola, Bagbazar Sarbojanin, and Mudiali Shibmandir, providing technology solutions and engaging with the festive spirit of Kolkata.
Also, to engage with locals and further increase their awareness and range of their offerings Croma is engaging with locals in Mall activations showcasing their Croma Own Label products. They are actively reaching out to Resident Welfare Associations to foster a deeper connection with the community during the festivities with exciting contests and offers.
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.
