Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan not only graces the face of HRX, one of India’s premier fitness brands but also stands as its co-owner alongside his partner Afsar Zaidi. Together, they helm this fitness juggernaut, with Zaidi serving as CEO and co-founder. Under Zaidi’s visionary leadership, HRX has experienced meteoric growth, boasting revenues surpassing Rs 1,000 crore and challenging global titans like Nike, Puma, and Decathlon.
The Rise of Afsar Zaidi
Zaidi’s entrepreneurial journey traces back to the founding of Exceed Entertainment in 2005, a celebrity management powerhouse that has represented a constellation of stars including Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and many more. His knack for talent management and business acumen catapulted Exceed into prominence, establishing it as a cornerstone of India’s entertainment industry.
From Celebrities to Brands
Beyond the glitz of entertainment, Zaidi ventured into the realm of fashion, co-founding Saif Ali Khan’s acclaimed apparel brand, The House of Pataudi. This venture underscores Zaidi’s versatility and foresight in navigating diverse sectors of the industry, solidifying his status as a formidable force in both entertainment and business.
About Afsar Zaidi
Zaidi’s journey from a salaried employee to a business magnate epitomizes the spirit of entrepreneurial grit. Starting as a sports management professional at Mahesh Bhupati’s Globosport India Private Limited, Zaidi’s trajectory took a transformative turn with the establishment of Carving Dreams, which later evolved into Exceed. His pivotal moment came with actor Ajay Devgan’s swift contract signing, a testament to Zaidi’s prowess in sealing deals and building lasting partnerships.
HRX and E-Commerce
In a strategic move that revolutionized the Indian fitness landscape, Hrithik Roshan spearheaded HRX’s foray into e-commerce during its nascent stages. Partnering with leading platforms like Myntra, HRX witnessed exponential growth, achieving a turnover of Rs 350 crore within its first fiscal year. The success of HRX paved the way for The House of Pataudi to follow suit, cementing Zaidi and Roshan’s status as pioneers in the convergence of fitness and fashion.
The Legacy Continues
Together, Hrithik Roshan and Afsar Zaidi exemplify the fusion of star power and business savvy, propelling HRX to unprecedented heights and redefining the narrative of celebrity entrepreneurship in India. With a shared vision and unwavering determination, they continue to inspire millions, leaving an indelible mark on the worlds of fitness, fashion, and entertainment.s