BraNd TrIviA

Lakme

In 1952, Lakmé - India's first beauty brand was born. For this venture, the Tatas tied up with the French cosmetic house Renoir.
An interesting story about the brand is its christening. During discussions between the Indian and French teams, the name 'Lakmé' was mooted by one of the young members on the Renoir team. Apparently there was an opera running in Paris at that time which was titled 'Lakmé' with the story set in India. Three Frenchmen fighting the British soldiers in the Sunderbans, West Bengal sought refuge in a temple, wounded and dying. The temple was of Goddess Laxmi and the name 'Lakmé' was born.