Bumble, an online dating app that puts women in control, is making its way to India with the help of Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra. The app, set to launch later this year in India, will have Chopra on board as an investor and advisor to guide its expansion.
This move comes shortly after Tinder introduced a feature in India allowing women to choose who can start a conversation with them. However, Bumble has been eyeing the Indian market for some time now. Founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd revealed that Chopra had expressed the need for Bumble among Indian women months ago. The two share a passion for empowering women globally, which led to their collaboration.
Localizing the app experience and attracting female users in India is crucial, and Chopra’s insights will be invaluable in this regard. With her manager, Anjula Acharia, also backing the venture as an investor and advisor, Bumble is poised for success. Acharia’s track record of bridging the gap between Indian and Western cultures, as seen in her work with artists like Britney Spears and Lady Gaga, could be instrumental in making Bumble resonate with the Indian audience.
To ensure the safety of its users, Bumble will introduce new features in the Indian market, including a requirement for women to provide only the first initial of their name for privacy. The app will also be available in Hindi and Hinglish, catering to a wider audience. With over 4,000 content moderators and photo verification features already in place, Bumble is committed to creating a safe online environment.
Despite its success in over 160 countries, the journey to India is significant due to the country’s vast internet user base, which is second only to China. However, Bumble’s expansion has not been without challenges. The dating app has been embroiled in a legal battle with Match Group, Tinder’s parent company, over patent infringement and trade secrets. Bumble has retaliated with a counter lawsuit, alleging that Match Group’s actions stem from failed acquisition discussions.
As Bumble gears up for its India launch, the collaboration with Priyanka Chopra and Anjula Acharia highlights the app’s commitment to empowering women and creating a safe space for online connections. With their guidance, Bumble aims to make a mark in India’s thriving online dating scene, offering a platform where women can take the lead in their romantic pursuits.