How Rhea Chakraborty Quit Bollywood To Build A Rs 40-Crore Business In Just One Year

After a prolonged stint in Bollywood, Rhea Chakraborty has begun carving a name for herself in the business world. The actress had faced a lengthy legal battle and intense public and media scrutiny following

the alleged suicide of rumoured boyfriend Sushant Singh Rajput in 2020. The criminal investigation and negative coverage impacted her public image, making it difficult for her to sustain a career in the film industry.

She eventually stepped away from acting and launched a business, building a company valued at Rs 40 crore in just one year.

Recently, Rhea shared her journey on a podcast, discussing her clothing brand, Chapter 2 Drip. The brand’s name reflects the idea of a ‘second chance’, rising from darkness and hopelessness. Today, the brand is valued at approximately Rs 40 crore, marking a remarkable achievement in a short span.

How The Business Started

Rhea told CNBC-TV18 that her arrest in the Sushant Singh Rajput case left her deeply disappointed. Determined to forge a path outside Bollywood, she created a clothing brand targeting the middle-class market. Chapter 2 Drip was launched in August 2024 as an online store, followed by the opening of the first offline store in June 2025.

Rhea inaugurated her brand’s first offline store in the upscale Bandra area of Mumbai. Despite high rental costs, the venture was supported by her partner, Shouvik. The brand also secured Rs 1 crore in seed funding from Kishore and Aashni Biyani. Within a year, the company’s valuation exceeded Rs 40 crore.

Marketing Strategy

Rhea explained that she uses her podcast to introduce the brand, engage potential investors, and share her vision. By building personal trust and demonstrating growth potential, she has successfully attracted investment. She believes that as the brand grows, public confidence and further investment naturally follow.

The brand’s pricing reflects a focus on the middle-class consumer. Denim is priced at Rs 5,500, a white T-shirt at Rs 2,290, the Anti-Everything Club Vest at Rs 1,790, and co-ord sets start at Rs 7,990.

Looking Ahead

Rhea recently revealed in a podcast that while her acting career is behind her, she would consider returning to films if the right opportunity arises. Meanwhile, her journey in business continues to flourish, establishing her as a formidable entrepreneur outside the film industry.