Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has addressed widespread speculation about the meaning behind the name of his fashion and lifestyle brand, ARKS, revealing that it is not named after his wife Alia Bhatt or their daughter Raha. The clarification comes as fans and social-media users debated whether the brand name contained personal significance.

Ranbir Kapoor decodes his brand name ARKS; debunks rumours about Alia Bhatt and Raha connection

Launched on his 42nd birthday in September 2024, ARKS marked Kapoor’s entry into the lifestyle business, offering apparel and other consumer products under a celebrity designer label. Shortly after the launch, social media buzzed with guesses that the name ARKS might stand for a combination of his family members’ initials — specifically Alia and Raha — sparking curiosity among followers.

In a video shared on the brand’s official YouTube and Instagram channels, Kapoor walked viewers through the ARKS factory and shared the story behind the name. “It had different meanings to it,” he explained. “We started with a shoe, so at first it was ‘A Ranbir Kapoor Shoe.’ Later it was ‘Ranbir Kapoor Studio,’ but at one point I realised that it doesn’t really need a meaning. I think it just fits. When we heard ARKS and saw the logo, everything just came together.”

Kapoor also highlighted the project’s practical origins, noting that the manufacturing unit used for ARKS products is owned by his brother-in-law, Bharat Sahni, whom he praised during the tour as “the amazing Bharat” and credited as an important figure in the brand’s early journey.

Beyond the name, Kapoor spoke about the ethos behind ARKS and his long-term vision. He said that as he matured, his desire for purely material goods diminished, but he still recognises everyday wardrobe essentials as worthwhile design opportunities. “As I grow older, my desire for material things is growing less. You always need a T-shirt or a denim jacket because you can wear it at any time. That’s where I come in with ARKS,” he said.

While ARKS clarifies its branding, Kapoor also has a busy slate in Bollywood. He is set to appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love and War alongside Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, and in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, both tentatively scheduled for release in 2026.

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