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Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has joined Bengaluru-based kitchenware brand Ember Cookware as an investor, backing its plans to scale operations, broaden its product range and strengthen its position in India's competitive kitchenware market.
With this investment, Rahane joins Ember's expanding investor network, which includes entrepreneurs and business leaders associated with consumer brands such as Licious, Yoga Bar and Nicobar.
Commenting on the development, Siddharth Gadodia, CEO and Co-Founder of Ember Cookware, said, “The next phase of Ember’s journey will be centred on accelerating growth, expanding our presence in the market and building a stronger position in India’s kitchenware category. We see considerable headroom to grow through deeper market penetration, entry into new product segments and a wider reach among consumers. Our focus will be on building the business capabilities to support this expansion while maintaining the quality and consistency that consumers expect from the brand. Our priority is to build the scale, market presence and operational strength required to achieve it. Ajinkya’s association comes at an exciting point in this journey as we prepare for the next stage of growth.”
Ajinkya Rahane added, “My approach to investment has always been about backing brands that have a clear vision, a strong consumer understanding and the potential to make a meaningful impact. What stands out about Ember is its focus on product innovation and its ambition to reimagine everyday kitchenware for Indian homes. The kitchen is at the heart of every household, and I believe there is significant potential for brands that bring together thoughtful design, quality and functionality. I am delighted to be associated with Ember and look forward to being part of its journey as it enters its next phase of growth.”
Set up by Siddharth Gadodia and Himanshi Tandon, Ember follows a direct-to-consumer (D2C) business model, while also leveraging partnerships with e-commerce marketplaces and retail platforms. Its product range includes ceramic-coated cookware, cast iron and stainless-steel products, along with kitchen accessories.
In September 2025, the company raised US$3.2 million in a seed funding round backed by investors from India's consumer and startup sectors. The funds were allocated towards product development, expanding distribution and strengthening operational capabilities.
The investment also adds to Rahane's growing business interests. Apart from brand endorsements, the cricketer has explored investments and strategic partnerships with companies such as Imagineear, Chupps, Senora Asset Management and Oatey.
Rahane's investment reflects a wider trend of Indian cricketers taking a more active role in the country's consumer startup space. Increasingly, athletes are moving beyond conventional endorsement deals to participate in businesses through equity investments and strategic partnerships.
