Shark Tank India 4: Namita Thapar questions pitcher Rahul Shah about the reason behind Indian men not applying makeup; asks 'Is it because of the perception that gay men put it?'

The latest episode of Shark Tank India 4 brings a men's makeup brand to the tank. Rahul Shah, the founder of Yaan Men from Ahmedabad brings an interesting makeup brand specially for men. He reveals how his friends overseas introduced the concept of men's makeup. He mentioned, 'Humare India mein mard patthar se bhi muh dho lenge par makeup kabhi nahi lagayenge. Unki mardangi lagta hai kam ho jayegi.' Which is how his brand was born, the brand is dedicated to all Indian men. His ask is Rs 60 Lakhs for 6% equity.
Vineeta recalls 15 years back, her internship in the UK, saying 'While I was doing an internship in the UK, it was so common where all my banker friends would wear concealers to hide their dark circles. In contrast, in India, even in 2024 it is so difficult to convince the men in my life to even wear sunscreen.' Rahul then gave a detailed explanation about his background and showed his products to the sharks.
Aman reveals that there isn't anyone in his circle who doesn't care about makeup. Rahul reveals that they play on the emotion and don't mention that it is makeup. Namita then pointed out, "A lot of gay men apply makeup, it is a very common thing. More like a cultural community thing. So do you think Aman's friends or a lot of other men don't put it because of the perception that gay men put it? So they shouldn't." Rahul agrees. However, Vineeta and Aman differ.
Vineeta then asks about his family background, and Rahul reveals that he comes from a business family. However, he wanted to do in Makeup, my family didn't care about what I was selling, they were concerned about the sales. The cater in Cotton and Chemical trading. It is a joint family business. Anupam enquired how big it is and Rahul revealed his family business was worth Rs 500cr.

While discussing the unit economics, Rahul talks about incurring losses but he compensates with his consulting business where he earns around Rs 20-25 Lakhs monthly. Anupam asks what would he do to get funding from Shark Tank India as his family owns Rs 500 crore worth of business already. He said, 'I would try to die down the consulting business. I am not sure at what cost I will end it but I would navigate some way.' Anupam appreciated Rahul's transparency. Rahul impresses the sharks with his smart answers to the further grilling questions.
Vineeta chooses to opt out of the deal. Anupam, Peyush and Namita further grill Rahul on why he doesn't name it a makeup brand. Namita says, 'In the reel, it is so direct that it is makeup, then why aren't you addressing it? Don't beat around the bush about the brand, be direct about it. And for that reason, I am out. I hope you take my advice.' Peyush also backed out as he felt Rahul was dicey about creating the category. While Aman offers Rs 50 Lakhs for 10% equity. Anupam then offers, Rs 50 Lakhs for 9% equity. Rahul suggests whether Aman and Anupam can come together. Anupam says, 'Hum log ki banti nahi hai, banane ka paisa lagta hai. I would want more equity to deal with him.' Rahul says, 'You guys can figure out?' Anupam says, 'Rs 1 crore for 20% equity'. Rahul seals the deal leaving the sharks shocked.