Can an Indian sneaker brand compete with global names by offering more than just a logo? Comet is showing how a strong identity, creative designs and a clear understanding of customers can build a powerful business.
Founded in 2023 by Utkarsh Gupta and Dishant Daryani, Comet began with a shared passion for sneakers. After meeting at Bain & Company, the duo decided to turn their interest into a business that reflects India’s culture and the changing tastes of young consumers.
They noticed a gap in the market. Many sneakers were expensive and few brands combined modern designs with a distinct Indian identity.
Comet set out to change that.
What makes Comet different?
The brand brings Indian cultural references into sneaker design. Its collections feature creative colour combinations, unique patterns, and stories inspired by everyday Indian life. Names such as Jugnu and Pataka help give its products a character of their own.
The company also focuses on product development, from its soles and cushioning to the materials used in each pair.
The business behind the sneakers
• Launched in mid-2023 with limited product releases.
• Built a growing community of sneaker enthusiasts.
• Reportedly reached ₹4–5 crore in monthly sales within two years.
• Raised ₹42 crore in 2024 at a reported valuation of ₹167 crore.
Comet’s limited releases and strong brand identity have helped create demand among customers who want something different from traditional sneaker brands.
What can entrepreneurs learn from Comet?
The story highlights three important lessons:
1. Find the gap: Look for what customers want but cannot easily find.
2. Build a story: A product becomes more memorable when people connect with its identity and purpose.
3. Create a community: Loyal customers can help a brand grow beyond individual sales.
Comet’s journey shows how an Indian startup can take an everyday product and build a larger story around it.
Because sometimes, people are not just buying what you make. They are buying what it represents.
India’s next generation of brands is not just selling products. It is creating its own identity.
