Shein is back!🛍️
Lokal launches Dostt, Eaze and Gyan TV, OYO to invest over Rs 530 Cr, WeWork India files papers, Funding Deals and more.
Good morning and welcome to Tuesday’s edition of Rise & Shine!
"The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt."
— Sylvia Plath
Today, Sylvia Plath’s words remind us that self-doubt is often the biggest obstacle to creativity. Silence our inner critic, and we unlock our full creative potential.
Creativity thrives when we allow ourselves to explore, make mistakes, and trust in our unique perspective.
Tech Updates
Shein returns to India via Reliance Retail partnership
Shein, the Chinese fast-fashion company, is returning to India nearly five years after being banned. This time, it is re-entering the market through a partnership with Reliance Retail. The app is available on both the Google Play Store and Apple's App Store. Unlike before, Shein will not operate the business itself. Reliance Retail will have full control over the Shein India Fast Fashion app, managing everything from operations to customer data.
Lokal launches Dostt, Eaze and Gyan TV; plans 40 more apps
Hyperlocal social media platform Lokal has introduced a new app called Dostt, which offers 1-to-1 voice and video calling while maintaining user anonymity. This is one of the several dozen apps which the firm is set to launch over the next year, as per the company’s co-founder Jani Pasha.
The Dostt app is designed as a secure and private platform featuring verified profiles and a diverse community. In addition to Dosst, Lokal recently launched Eaze, an app focused on emotional wellness, and Gyan TV, a skill-based learning app similar to Seekho that offers courses on stock trading, photography, and more.
OYO to invest over Rs 530 Cr in UK’s premium properties
Hospitality major OYO has announced its plans to invest £50 million (approximately Rs 536.95 crore) in the UK over the next three years, primarily to focus on expanding its premium hotel portfolio. OYO is shifting its UK strategy towards premiumization by acquiring high-end inventory and securing long-term leases and management contracts.
WeWork India files papers with Sebi for public listing
WeWork India has submitted a draft of the red herring prospectus (DRHP) to Sebi for an initial public offering. The company’s co-parents, WeWork Inc. and Embassy Buildcon, have proposed selling a combined 25% stake in the co-working company.
Funding Deals
Serial entrepreneur Priyanka Gill, Venture Partner at Kalaari Capital and Co-Founder of the Good Glamm Group, has launched COLUXE, a lab-grown diamond (LGD) brand. The brand has also raised funds in its angel round for an undisclosed amount.
Voice AI startup ElevenLabs has raised $180 million in a Series C funding round co-led by a16z and ICONIQ Growth, with participation from new investors NEA, World Innovation Lab (WiL), Valor, Endeavor Catalyst Fund, and Lunate.
👨🏼🎨 Short Story: The Hesitant Artist
Aarav loved painting but hesitated to share his work, convinced it wasn’t "good enough." One day, a friend encouraged him to post his artwork online. To his surprise, people loved it.
With each painting he shared, Aarav’s confidence grew. He realized that self-doubt had held him back—not his ability. Once he silenced it, his creativity soared.
Tweet of the day🐥
Today, challenge your self-doubt and take a step toward expressing your creativity. Whether it’s writing, painting, or problem-solving, trust that your ideas have value.
Rise & Shine reminds you that believing in yourself is the only way to create something meaningful.
Have a confident and creative Tuesday!
Thanks for reading till the end!