Lakmé, one of India’s most beloved cosmetics brands, has a history deeply intertwined with the country’s struggle for economic independence and the legacy of British colonial rule. The brand was born in the early years of post-independence India, driven by the vision of two iconic figures—Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and J.R.
D. Tata. During British rule, India was primarily a market for European goods, including cosmetics, which were much more advanced in the West.
Even after India gained independence in 1947, the Indian elite continued to spend heavily on imported beauty products. This outflow of foreign currency became a concern for Nehru, who was focused on building a self-reliant economy. He realized that the cosmetics industry could serve as a key area to promote indigenous production while conserving foreign reserves.
Nehru approached J.R.D.
Tata, a close friend and renowned industrialist, with the idea of establishing a homegrown cosmetics brand that catered to Indian women. Tata embraced this vision, combining it with the traditional symbolism of Goddess Lakshmi, who represents beauty, prosperity, and wealth. This led to the creation of Lakmé in 1952, a brand named after the French word for Lakshmi and symbolizing both cultural and economic independence.
Lakmé’s rise was further fueled by the involvement of Simone Tata, J.R.D.
Tata’s sister-in-law. She joined the company in the 1960s, and under her leadership, Lakmé became a trusted name in beauty.
