For years, the global narrative was clear: Indian brands just couldn’t crack the luxury or premium markets. The phrase “Made in India” conjured images of cheap outsourcing, discount bins, or faceless call centers- not the kind of stuff that turns heads in New York, London, or Dubai.
But that story is being rewritten, and the new chapter is nothing short of remarkable.
Nikhil Kamath of Zerodha recently made waves by spotlighting Indian brands making their mark on international streets, from the glitzy avenues of Dubai to the trendsetting corners of Manhattan. His message was unmistakable: Indian brands have stepped out of the local shadows and are now dazzling on the global stage.
The New Icons of Luxury
This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of Indian entrepreneurs and creatives refusing to accept second-tier status. Instead of chasing Western templates, they’ve leaned into their roots, blending Indian heritage with contemporary sensibility.
The rise of brands like 11.11 from Delhi, worn unprompted by Hollywood icons like Brad Pitt, signals a shift in perception. These aren’t just labels; they’re cultural ambassadors.
The fact that 11.11 didn’t pay for celebrity endorsements makes it even more powerful-global tastemakers are seeking out Indian designs for their authenticity and edge.
Nappa Dori’s journey further illustrates the point. What began as an artisanal leather studio in Delhi has blossomed into a global phenomenon, with flagship stores in London and Dubai’s trendiest locales. Their products, steeped in Indian craftsmanship, appeal to a clientele that values both story and style.
Right alongside them, Subko Coffee from Mumbai is redefining what Indian hospitality can be. Their specialty coffee outlets are magnets for international visitors, eager to experience Indian flavors and artisanal passion in a cosmopolitan setting.
Dominating the Consumer Space
This wave of innovation extends well beyond fashion and lifestyle. Indian brands are asserting themselves across sectors.
Royal Enfield, once a relic of colonial India, has been reborn as a cult symbol roaring through streets in over 60 countries. Its distinctive thump is now a global soundscape, adored by riders from Sydney to San Francisco.
Titan and Fastrack, homegrown watchmakers, have become global timekeepers, challenging established European giants.
boAt, the audio electronics brand, stormed into the world’s top five wearables, showing that Indian tech can win not just on price, but on design and reliability as well.
Even staples of Indian homes are finding a premium place abroad. Amul’s dairy products now grace American refrigerators, signaling quality and trust.
Himalaya Wellness, drawing from the country’s vast reservoir of botanical knowledge, is a familiar name in over 100 countries, combining science and tradition to meet modern wellness needs.
The global appetite for Indian goods is no longer confined to the diaspora; it’s mainstream, crossing borders and cultures.
Redefining Wellness and Spirit
Wellness and spirits represent another frontier where India is excelling.
Forest Essentials has taken Ayurveda- a centuries-old holistic healing system and packaged it for discerning global consumers. With boutiques in the UK, the UAE, and Australia, they’re setting a gold standard for natural skincare, drawing a clientele hungry for authenticity and ritual.
The spirits industry, once dominated by Scotch and bourbon, is now welcoming Indian labels. Rampur Indian Single Malt has disrupted the whisky world, landing in the top five trending whiskies worldwide, as recognized by the Drinks International Report 2026.
India’s vibrant spirit culture is coming to the fore: Bira 91’s craft beers are cool and contemporary, while Old Monk’s nostalgia-laden rum offers comfort and connection, both now celebrated on the world stage.
The Future is Bharat
Much of this success comes from a fundamental shift in mindset. Indian brands have stopped apologizing for their roots or playing catch-up to Western trends. Instead, they’re doubling down on what sets them apart: centuries of craft, a tapestry of cultures, and a flair for innovation. They’re not just offering products, they’re curating experiences, stories, and a sense of identity.
The “Bharat” of today is confident, outward-looking, and unapologetically proud. As the global consumer looks for authenticity, sustainability, and narrative, Indian brands are uniquely positioned to deliver.
The new generation of Indian entrepreneurs is building with the world in mind, but their foundations are unmistakably local. This is more than a commercial evolution- it’s a cultural renaissance.
The “Made in India” tag is no longer a footnote; it’s a badge of honor, signifying quality, creativity, and a fresh worldview.
As Kamath predicted, this is just the beginning. India has evolved from being the world’s back office to becoming its brand office- a creative powerhouse shaping global tastes and trends. The world is taking notice, and it’s time for Indians everywhere to wear their heritage with pride. No apologies needed- just ambition, vision, and the unmistakable swagger of a new era.
