But few know that the name Lakmé itself is rooted in divine inspiration, drawn from none other than Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth, beauty, and prosperity. And even fewer know that this iconic Indian brand was brought to life by industrialist and visionary JRD Tata.
In an age when most beauty brands in India are international imports, Lakmé stands tall as a homegrown legacy that blends Indian culture, mythology, and business genius—all in one compact.
The Divine Name Behind the Brand
The name Lakmé is actually the French rendition of Lakshmi, the goddess who represents beauty, fortune, and abundance. The idea was to create a brand that Indian women could feel culturally connected to—while also appealing to Western sensibilities during a time when English and French influences shaped urban consumerism.
By choosing a name that sounds elegant yet holds sacred meaning, Lakmé became more than a cosmetic label—it became a symbol of empowerment, style, and pride for Indian women.
The Visionary Behind It: JRD Tata
Lakmé was established in 1952 by JRD Tata, one of India’s most revered industrialists. The government at the time had noticed that Indian women were spending precious foreign exchange on imported beauty products. In response, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru approached Tata, encouraging him to start an Indian alternative that could meet the needs of local women. Tata took the challenge seriously, and thus, Lakmé was born under Tata Oil Mills Company.
Lakmé: A Pioneer in Indian Beauty
Lakmé was one of the first brands to truly understand Indian skin tones, beauty rituals, and cultural aesthetics. From their legendary “enchanting eyes” ad campaigns to their skin-friendly formulas, they set the tone for what Indian beauty looked and felt like.
It wasn't just about glam—it was about making beauty accessible, relatable, and proudly desi.
Over time, Lakmé didn’t just remain a cosmetic company. It evolved into a trendsetter, launching the Lakmé Fashion Week—India’s most prestigious fashion event—and collaborating with designers, artists, and stylists to stay at the forefront of beauty and style.
As consumers grow more conscious about the brands they support, stories like Lakmé’s feel grounding. It isn’t just about packaging or pigmentation—it’s about purpose and roots.
Lakmé isn’t just named after Lakshmi. It carries her spirit—in elegance, in excellence, and in the quiet power it has passed on to Indian women for over seven decades.