India, Feb. 21 -- India is the world's second-largest footwear producer and consumer, with domestic demand soaking up 90-95% of its output. It is a massive landscape on a steep trajectory, projected to grow from $17.9 Bn in 2024 to $45.5 Bn by 2032. Yet, for years, the brand landscape was split between two extremes: mass-market labels competing in the sub-Rs.1,000 segment and industry giants dominating the Rs.5,000-plus category.

In 2015, Anuj Nevatia and Natwar Agrawal launched Bacca Bucci to claim this underserved middle ground. The duo bypassed the race for the lowest price and the exclusivity of high luxury. Instead, they focussed on a homegrown brand that could match the comfort, durability and style of giants like Puma, RedTape and...