Bengaluru-based sexual health and wellness startup Bold Care proudly announced Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh’s recent investment, making him a co-owner within the company. On December 1, the company confirmed Singh’s involvement without disclosing specific investment amounts or the percentage of stake acquired by the renowned film star.
Singh expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am pleased to come on board as the face and co-owner of Bold Care. We are committed towards normalizing conversations about sexual health and wellness, a topic that traditionally comes with stigma and taboo. People, especially men, are misinformed and shy to seek help.”
This venture marks Singh’s second startup investment following his involvement with the direct-to-consumer brand SUGAR Cosmetics. His wife and fellow actor, Deepika Padukone, is also active in the startup investment space, holding stakes in various ventures such as Furlenco, Epigami, Blu Smart, and Bellatrix Aerospace.
Singh emphasized the need for more openness and acceptance regarding sexual health and wellness in Indian society. He previously endorsed a condom brand early in his career and now sees this investment as a significant step towards addressing societal needs. “We are probably one of the most sexually active societies in the world. This needs to be done,” he commented.
Bold Care, established in 2021, has achieved an annual recurring revenue of Rs 40 crore and has sold over 3 lakh units of condoms within its first 10 months, processing more than 15 lakh orders.
CEO Rajat Jadhav expressed immense satisfaction with Singh’s involvement, stating, “We have announced Ranveer (Singh) as the co-owner at Bold Care. His involvement over the past year has been nothing short of incredible, deeply engaging in every facet of our business. This is going to be an iconic partnership.”
Jadhav highlighted the startup’s mission to normalize conversations surrounding men’s health, particularly sexual health, noting Singh’s passionate alignment with this vision from the project’s inception.
Significance of the Investment
The investment by Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh in Bold Care holds significant importance for several reasons:
Celebrity Endorsement and Visibility
Singh’s involvement as a co-owner and face of Bold Care brings immense visibility to the startup. His celebrity status and influence can help normalize discussions around sexual health, breaking societal taboos and encouraging more open conversations on a critical but often overlooked aspect of well-being.
Addressing Stigma
Sexual health remains a sensitive and stigmatized topic in many societies, including India. Singh’s commitment to normalizing conversations about sexual health and wellness helps combat the stigma attached to discussing these issues openly. This investment signifies a step towards breaking societal barriers and fostering a more accepting environment.
Market Penetration and Consumer Awareness
Singh’s association with Bold Care could significantly impact consumer awareness and market penetration. His previous endorsement of a condom brand and now his co-ownership with Bold Care underscores his genuine interest and commitment to this cause. This could lead to increased product awareness and acceptance among consumers.
Entrepreneurial Influence
With Bollywood figures like Singh actively investing in startups, it promotes an entrepreneurial spirit within the entertainment industry. It sets an example for others, encouraging them to diversify their portfolios, support innovative ventures, and contribute to societal well-being beyond their primary profession.
Business Growth and Development
Singh’s engagement and deep involvement in Bold Care’s operations signal a hands-on approach that could potentially drive strategic business decisions and enhance the company’s growth trajectory. His commitment might attract more resources, talent, and partnerships beneficial for the startup’s expansion.
What is Sexual Health?
Sexual health includes a holistic state of physical, mental, and social well-being concerning sexuality. It goes beyond the absence of disease, focusing on a positive approach to understanding and expressing sexuality. At its core, sexual health involves respectful relationships, pleasure, safety, and the ability to have satisfying sexual experiences free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.
This multidimensional aspect includes physical aspects like reproductive health, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and contraception. Equally crucial is the emotional and psychological dimension, encompassing attitudes, values, and feelings about oneself and others in sexual contexts.
Communication and education play significant roles in promoting sexual health, and promoting understanding, respect, and consent in relationships. Open, non-judgmental conversations enable individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and sexual behaviour.
Societal factors heavily influence sexual health, including cultural norms, gender equality, access to healthcare, and the absence of discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Recognizing and addressing these broader societal influences is integral to achieving comprehensive sexual health for all.
In essence, sexual health is not merely the absence of disease but a state of well-being that acknowledges and embraces the diverse aspects of sexuality, aiming for a fulfilling and respectful sexual life for individuals and communities.
What are the 5 components of sexual health?
Sexual health encompasses a holistic approach to well-being that goes beyond physical aspects, incorporating emotional, mental, and social elements. Five essential components form the foundation of sexual health, each contributing to a fulfilling and healthy sexual life.
Physical Health
It involves maintaining good overall health, including reproductive and sexual organs. Regular health check-ups, safe sexual practices, and disease prevention through vaccination or protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are crucial.
Emotional Well-being
Emotions play a significant role. Healthy relationships, communication, trust, and emotional intimacy contribute to a positive sexual experience. Understanding one’s emotions, addressing stressors, and fostering a supportive environment is vital.
Mental Health
Mental Health influences sexual well-being significantly. Positive body image, self-esteem, and mental clarity contribute to a healthy sexual life. Addressing mental health issues, reducing anxiety, and enhancing self-confidence are integral aspects.
Social Well-being
Social Well-being involves cultural, societal, and community factors. Respect for diversity, rights, and inclusion creates a supportive environment for healthy sexual relationships. Education, societal acceptance, and access to resources also impact sexual health.
Educational and Behavioral Aspects
Comprehensive sexual education, understanding consent, practising safe sex, and promoting responsible sexual behaviour are fundamental for overall sexual health.
Embracing these five components—physical, emotional, mental, social, and educational—paves the way for a comprehensive approach to sexual health, ensuring a fulfilling and respectful sexual life for individuals and communities alike.