Richa Kar, founder of Zivame, transformed India’s lingerie market by challenging taboos, prioritising women’s comfort, and introducing a private, online shopping experience. Despite early criticism and family resistance, she built India’s largest lingerie platform—later acquired by Reliance Retail—cementing her legacy as a bold, barrier‑breaking entrepreneur.
Richa Kar’s entrepreneurial journey is one of courage, clarity, and cultural disruption. Born in Jamshedpur and raised in a traditional household, Kar faced early resistance when she chose to build a business in the lingerie space—an industry often shrouded in stigma in India. Yet in 2011, she launched Zivame, a platform designed to give women privacy, choice, and confidence while shopping for intimate wear.
Her vision was simple but revolutionary: create a safe, stigma‑free environment where women could explore styles, sizes, and comfort without judgment. Zivame quickly grew into India’s largest online lingerie brand, often dubbed the “Desi Victoria’s Secret.”
Kar stepped down as CEO after scaling the company, and in 2020, Zivame was acquired by Reliance Retail, marking a milestone in India’s D2C success stories. Today, she continues to serve on the board, inspiring a new generation of women entrepreneurs.
Key Highlights / Major Takeaways
Founded Zivame in 2011, pioneering online lingerie shopping in India
Overcame societal stigma and family opposition
Built India’s largest lingerie platform, valued at over ₹681 crore
Zivame later acquired by Reliance Retail (2020)
Kar remains on the board of directors, shaping the brand’s future
Sources: News18 , Zee News Zee News, Times Now , IT Worth Desk Indiatimes.com