Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has set the record straight about the inspiration behind the name of his newly launched clothing brand, ARKS. Contrary to widespread fan speculation, the brand is not an acronym paying tribute to his wife, actress Alia Bhatt, or their daughter, Raha Kapoor.
The Name Game: What ARKS Really Stands For
In a detailed video posted on the brand's official YouTube channel on January 2, 2026, Kapoor took viewers on a tour of his manufacturing unit and addressed the curiosity surrounding the brand's moniker. He explained that the name evolved organically during the initial planning stages. "It had different meanings to it," Kapoor revealed. "We started with a shoe, so at first it was 'A Ranbir Kapoor Shoe'. Later it was 'Ranbir Kapoor Studio'."
However, the actor ultimately decided that the name did not require a forced or literal meaning. "At one point I realised that it doesn't really need a meaning. I think it just fit. When we heard ARKS and saw the logo, everything just came together," he stated, putting an end to the popular theories linking it to his family.
Hands-On Approach and Family Support
The video also highlighted Kapoor's deep involvement in the brand's operations and the crucial support from family. The factory space featured in the tour belongs to his brother-in-law, Bharat Sahni, whom Kapoor praised as "the amazing Bharat" and "a gem of a guy." Sahni is also one of the manufacturers for the brand's products.
Kapoor emphasized his tactile, detail-oriented approach to product creation. "We haven't seen this on an Excel sheet or a computer screen. It's very touch and feel, and we have actually seen every fabric, detail and fit," he asserted, underscoring his commitment to quality.
Future Vision: Beyond Clothing to a Complete Lifestyle
Looking ahead, the actor outlined ambitious plans to expand ARKS beyond its current offerings. He connected this vision to a personal shift in priorities. "As I grow older, my desire for material things is growing lesser," Kapoor shared. He sees ARKS fulfilling the need for essential, timeless wardrobe staples like t-shirts and denim jackets.
The broader strategy is to build a lifestyle brand. "The plan is to really expand in different areas of lifestyle, which could be athleisure or underwear. I am also interested in the whole furniture market," he disclosed. The ultimate goal is to sell a cohesive aesthetic and sensibility to consumers under the ARKS umbrella.
This business venture coincides with a busy year for Kapoor on the cinematic front. He is set to appear in two major 2026 releases: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War and Nitesh Tiwari's adaptation of the epic Ramayana.
