Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Television actor Neha Marda, best known for playing Gehna in the popular show Balika Vadhu, has successfully transitioned from acting to entrepreneurship. The actress, who took a break from television after becoming a mother, turned a traditional ₹10 product—fitkari (alum)—into a premium personal care brand called Phitku, which is now valued at ₹180 crore.
The idea for the brand emerged from a personal challenge Neha faced after pregnancy when she struggled with body odour and could not find an effective organic solution in the market. Determined to address the problem, she launched Phitku with her husband and brother. What started as a simple idea evolved into a full-fledged business after three years of research and product development. Neha presented her brand on Shark Tank India in January 2026, where she revealed that the company had generated over ₹14 crore in revenue within just 10 months. The product, initially sold for ₹99, was later priced at ₹999 after extensive refinement, drawing criticism and skepticism from many consumers.
Despite questions over the pricing and valuation, the brand's growth impressed investors. Entrepreneurs Aman Gupta and Anupam Mittal jointly invested ₹1.8 crore for 1% equity, valuing the company at ₹180 crore. Before entering the business world, Neha built a successful television career. She first gained recognition after winning Boogie Woogie in 2004 and made her acting debut with Saath Rahega Always in 2005. She later appeared in several television shows, achieving widespread fame as Gehna in Balika Vadhu. Her last major television role was in Kyun Rishton Mein Katti Batti (2020–21).
Neha Marda's journey from a celebrated television actor to a successful entrepreneur highlights how a personal challenge can inspire a thriving business venture. By reinventing a traditional household product and turning it into a premium brand, she has carved out a new identity beyond the entertainment industry while building a company valued at ₹180 crore.
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