In the world of Indian television, Aashka Goradia Goble was a household name, known for her powerful performances and immense popularity. However, the former TV star surprised her fans by walking away from showbiz at the peak of her career. Today, she stands as a successful entrepreneur, leading a cosmetics empire worth ₹1300 crore that competes with giants like Nykaa and Sugar Cosmetics. This is the inspiring journey of Aashka Goradia, who swapped fame for fortune, carving a new path in the beauty industry.
The Rise to Stardom in Television
Aashka Goradia first appeared on Indian television in the supernatural thriller Achanak 37 Saal Baad in 2002. However, it was her role as Kumud in Ekta Kapoor’s Kkusum that catapulted her to fame. She became a prominent figure in Indian households, known for her roles in hit TV shows like Sinndoor Tere Naam Ka, Viruddh, and the popular fantasy series Naagin. Aashka’s fame also extended to reality television, with appearances on Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi, making her one of the highest-paid TV stars of her time.
Despite her flourishing career, Aashka felt the pull towards entrepreneurship. She realized that while acting brought fame, her true calling was elsewhere. In 2019, after her final appearance on the TV show Daayan, she bid farewell to the entertainment industry to focus on her newly established business.
The Birth of Renee Cosmetics
Aashka’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2018 with the launch of Renee Cosmetics, a brand she co-founded with Priyank Shah and Ashutosh Valani, who were also the co-founders of the men’s grooming brand Beardo. Named after her mother, Renee Cosmetics was Aashka’s dream project, symbolizing her desire to bring high-quality, innovative beauty products to Indian consumers.
Renee Cosmetics quickly gained traction as an internet-first brand, offering a range of products including eye makeup, lip colors, skin serums, and highlighters. The brand’s online presence, combined with its trendy and accessible products, resonated with young Indian consumers. Its popularity surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when online beauty shopping witnessed significant growth.
Competing with Giants: Renee Cosmetics’ Rapid Growth
Renee Cosmetics has proven to be a formidable competitor to established Indian beauty brands like Nykaa and Sugar Cosmetics. The brand’s success can be attributed to its unique offerings, strategic online marketing, and the trust it built with consumers. By 2022, Renee Cosmetics crossed the $100 million mark in valuation, cementing its place in the competitive beauty industry. As of 2024, the brand is valued at around $155 million (approximately ₹1300 crore), according to Entrackr.
The company’s growth has been supported by substantial funding. Renee Cosmetics has raised a total of $48.5 million (over ₹400 crore) across five rounds. This financial backing has allowed the brand to expand its product range and marketing efforts, further strengthening its position in the market.
Awards and Recognition
In 2021, Renee Cosmetics was awarded India’s Most Trusted Brand at the CNBC Most Trusted Brands Of India, a testament to the brand’s credibility and popularity. This recognition validated Aashka’s shift from acting to entrepreneurship, showcasing her ability to build a brand that resonated with consumers across the country.
Personal Life and New Beginnings
Aashka’s journey from TV star to successful entrepreneur also includes a fulfilling personal life. She married American businessman Brent Goble in 2017, and the couple welcomed their first child, a son, in October 2023. Balancing her responsibilities as a mother and a business leader, Aashka’s story is one of determination, resilience, and reinvention.
A New Chapter in Indian Beauty Industry
Renee Cosmetics stands as a symbol of Aashka Goradia Goble’s hard work and vision. The brand has captured a significant share of the Indian cosmetics market, known for its trendy, high-quality products that appeal to a wide range of consumers. By focusing on affordability and accessibility, Renee has positioned itself as a brand that understands the needs of modern Indian women.
Aashka’s shift from the glamour of television to the rigor of running a business is a rare and inspiring story in the Indian entertainment industry. Her success with Renee Cosmetics demonstrates how actors can transition from the world of showbiz to the business world, creating lasting impact beyond the screen.
Aashka Goradia Goble’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention. From a beloved TV star to the founder of a thriving ₹1300 crore business, Aashka has shown that with vision and determination, one can achieve success in diverse fields. Renee Cosmetics continues to grow, challenging established players like Nykaa and Sugar Cosmetics, and proving that Aashka’s decision to step away from the spotlight was indeed a prudent one. Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to follow their passion, reminding us that the courage to make bold decisions can lead to extraordinary achievements.