How Aashka Goradia Built Renée Cosmetics into a ₹1300 Crore Empire

Renee Cosmetics Founder
Image Credit: Instagram @aashkagoradia

Aashka Goradia, a name once synonymous with Indian television, has redefined success by boldly transitioning from the glamour of showbiz to the competitive world of business. Her journey from being one of the top TV stars to founding a cosmetics empire worth ₹1300 crore is nothing short of inspiring.

Aashka Goradia began her acting career in 2002 with the television show Achanak 37 Saal Baad. However, her role as Kumud in the popular TV show Kkusum catapulted her to fame. Over the years, she became a household name with memorable performances in shows like Naagin, Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap, and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii. Her participation in reality shows such as Bigg Boss 6 and Nach Baliye 8 further solidified her status as a beloved TV personality.

At the peak of her television career, Aashka unexpectedly decided to step away from acting. In 2019, after her stint in Daayan, she bid farewell to the entertainment industry to pursue a new passion—entrepreneurship. Many deemed this move risky, but Aashka was driven by a vision beyond the limelight.

In 2018, Aashka co-founded Renée Cosmetics, an innovative makeup brand, alongside Priyank Shah and Ashutosh Valani, co-founders of Beardo. Named after Aashka’s alter ego, the brand aimed to empower women by providing high-quality, cruelty-free beauty products. Renée Cosmetics quickly gained traction, especially during the pandemic, with its unique offerings like the FAB 5-in-1 lipstick and the Fab Face multi-functional makeup stick.

By 2024, Renée Cosmetics had grown into a formidable beauty industry player valued at ₹1300 crore. The brand’s success is a testament to Aashka’s business acumen and her ability to recognize and cater to the evolving needs of modern women. Renée Cosmetics has gained a loyal customer base and positioned itself as a strong competitor to established giants like Nykaa and Sugar Cosmetics.

Renée Cosmetics has raised over ₹400 crore in funding across multiple rounds, with a valuation crossing $100 million by 2022. The brand’s innovative approach and commitment to quality have earned it numerous accolades, including India’s Most Trusted Brand award at the CNBC Most Trusted Brands of India.

Aashka’s personal life has also flourished alongside her professional achievements. She married American businessman Brent Goble in 2017, and the couple welcomed their first child, a son, in October 2023. Aashka’s journey from an acclaimed actress to a successful entrepreneur and devoted mother highlights her multifaceted persona and determination to excel in all spheres of life.