Marmalade has raised Rs 6 crore in a seed funding round from a group of investors that includes Ashok Chokalingam, Robert Sellares, Ishank Gupta and HomeLane founders Srikanth Iyer and Tanuj Choudhry. The Delhi-based alco-bev startup said the proceeds will be used to expand distribution, support brand-building initiatives and strengthen sales and operational capabilities.
Marmalade’s funding and plans
Co-founded in 2025 by Udit Mediratta and Surojit Bhattacharya, Marmalade plans to expand into Mumbai and the broader Maharashtra market. The company says it is on track to reach an annualised revenue run rate (ARR) of Rs 5 crore in September 2026 and is targeting Rs 15 crore in ARR by December 2026, a threefold increase in less than four months across two cities.
Brightside craft whiskey
Marmalade’s flagship brand, Brightside, is an Indian craft whiskey developed in partnership with Amrut Distilleries and master blender Ashok Chokalingam. According to the company, Brightside combines fine malts and grain spirits with a distinctive blend of botanicals to produce a smoother, more approachable drinking experience without harsh burn, bitterness or a strong aftertaste. The brand has also introduced packaging innovations aimed at making the drinking experience more engaging. Brightside Craft Whiskey is priced at Rs 1,750 for a 750 ml bottle in Maharashtra, and the brand is positioning itself in a segment it describes as having limited offerings between Rs 1,500 and Rs 2,200.
Industry context
India’s alcobev startups continue experimenting with craft whisky, gin, agave spirits and liqueurs while emphasizing contemporary branding, smoother flavour profiles, locally sourced ingredients and premium-but-approachable pricing. Recent funding moves in the sector include Feline Spirits raising Rs 5.2 crore in a pre-Series A round led by Inflection Point Ventures; Raincheck Earth Co., maker of Cherrapunji Craft Gin, raising $1.2 million from Japanese investors and the AngelList India Syndicate; and Nuvola Spirits securing Rs 1.57 crore in pre-Series A funding.
