Who are the founders of Fitday?
Fitday, the Hyderabad-based nutraceutical and wellness startup, was co-founded by Suresh Raju and Pathapati Nagaraju. Suresh Raju, who also holds the title of Founder and CEO, initially launched Genomelabs, a nutraceutical manufacturing business, in 2016. His experience and insights into the growing consumer demand for wellness-oriented lifestyles led to the creation of the customer-facing Fitday platform in 2020. The company began with an omnichannel approach, combining an e-commerce platform with physical retail stores, and has since expanded significantly.
The Vision Behind Fitday
Suresh Raju's vision for Fitday was driven by a socio-economic perspective, not just a business one. He saw an opportunity to tackle micronutrient malnutrition and lifestyle diseases by creating a comprehensive ecosystem for well-being. This ecosystem includes not only a marketplace for products but also a suite of services such as nutrition consulting and free body mass index (BMI) analysis in its physical stores. The company's tagline, "There is something for everyone," reflects this inclusive approach.
The Role of Key Investors
While Raju and Nagaraju are the founders, the company's growth has been bolstered by external investment. In September 2024, the nutraceutical startup announced that it had received strategic investment from GMB Entertainment, the firm owned by renowned Telugu actor Mahesh Babu. This was a significant development, as Babu's involvement brought considerable credibility and visibility to the brand, helping to expand its retail footprint and attract a wider audience. The partnership was aligned with Babu's personal commitment to health and fitness, resonating with the brand's mission.
Other Financial Backing
In addition to the investment from GMB Entertainment, Fitday has also received backing from angel investors. This financial support has been crucial for a company operating in a competitive and rapidly expanding market. The influx of capital has enabled Fitday to invest in its omnichannel retail strategy and continue its aggressive expansion plans across India.
Expansion and Market Position
Since its founding, Fitday has grown to feature over 1,000 nutraceutical and wellness product SKUs. Its product range includes:
- Functional foods like multigrain chips and millet bars
- Protein powders and other dietary supplements
- Immunity boosters
- Medical foods
This broad selection allows the company to cater to a diverse clientele, from pediatrics to sports nutrition to general health. The company's innovative product lines and strategic partnerships have cemented its position as a key player in the Indian consumer health sector.
Comparison of Key Figures and Their Roles
| Aspect | Suresh Raju | Pathapati Nagaraju | Mahesh Babu / GMB Entertainment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Role at Fitday | Founder & CEO | Co-Founder | Strategic Investor |
| Involvement | Visionary, CEO, and day-to-day operations leader | Co-founder, active on the board | Provides credibility, visibility, and capital |
| Connection to Founding | Started parent company Genomelabs, founded Fitday in 2020 | Co-founder since the company's inception | Invested in 2024 through his firm |
| Net Worth | Shared founder's net worth is ₹27.5 Cr as of Aug 2024 | Shared founder's net worth is ₹27.5 Cr as of Aug 2024 | Not applicable; his firm invested in the company |
| Key Contribution | Drives the business strategy and consumer outreach | Supports management and overall company direction | Boosts brand image and accelerates retail expansion |
Conclusion
In summary, the ownership of Fitday is primarily held by its co-founders, Suresh Raju and Pathapati Nagaraju, who established the company to address the growing market for nutraceuticals in India. While they steer the strategic vision and day-to-day operations, the company has also garnered significant support from key investors, most notably a strategic investment from actor Mahesh Babu's firm, GMB Entertainment. This blend of entrepreneurial vision and high-profile backing has been instrumental in Fitday's growth and its ability to compete in the expanding health and wellness sector.
For more information on the company, visit the official Fitday website: Fitday.
