Mumbai-based D2C startup WickedGud (100Percent Nourishment Pvt Ltd) has raised Rs 2.25 crore in funding from the Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty.
The funding announcement comes after it raised capital from previous investors Titan Capital, Mumbai Angels, NB Ventures, Dholakia Ventures, Venture Catalyst, and other marquee founder angels, including boAt co-founder Aman Gupta.
Founded in 2021 by Bhuman Dani, Monish Debnath, and Soumalya Biswas, WickedGud said it is on a mission to "unjunk" India, one kitchen at a time.
The brand claims to have witnessed a growth of over 300% in the past year because of its healthy and tasty pastas and noodles that are 100% maida-free, 100% oil-free, and 100% MSG-free.
WickedGud also claimed that its products are made using wholesome, mom-approved ingredients such as atta, dal, chawal, chana, oats, and jowar, and are manufactured using innovative Steaming and Convection Air Drying (SCAD) technology.
The startup was featured on Shark Tank India Season 2's grand finale episode, leading to a successful expansion into international markets, including UAE, Singapore, Mauritius, and Nepal. The brand sells its products on its website and e-commerce marketplaces such as Amazon, blinkit, BigBasket, SwiggyInstamart, Zepto, and Flipkart, among others.
"We are thrilled to welcome Shilpa Shetty to the WickedGud family," said Bhuman Dani, Founder and CEO of WickedGud in a statement. "Her love for food and fitness aligns with our brand values and mission. We believe that her influence will help us reach a wider audience, promoting conscious consumption."
Shilpa Shetty said, "We’re a family of food-lovers and are always looking for opportunities in the better-for-you indulgent food space. I tried the WickedGud Spaghetti and was not only impressed by the taste and health benefits, but also the fact that my kids loved it too. Grown ups liking it is one thing but when my kids lapped it up, I was sold on the idea. This inspired me to not only endorse the brand but also invest in it. I am excited to support WickedGud in their mission to unjunk India, one kitchen at a time."
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