Global beauty giant The Estée Lauder Companies has announced plans to acquire the remaining stake in Forest Essentials, deepening its long-standing partnership with the Indian luxury Ayurvedic beauty label. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.
The development builds on Estée Lauder’s earlier investment in Forest Essentials. The company first acquired a minority stake in the brand in 2008 and later increased its shareholding to 49% in 2020. With the new agreement, Estée Lauder aims to take full ownership while continuing to support the brand’s growth and expansion.
Founded in 2000 by Mira Kulkarni, Forest Essentials operates in the luxury Ayurvedic beauty segment, offering skincare, body care and wellness products inspired by traditional Indian formulations. Over the years, the brand has built a strong presence in the premium beauty market and currently operates nearly 200 standalone stores across India.
Following the acquisition, the brand will continue to be managed from New Delhi, with Mira Kulkarni overseeing operations alongside her son Samrath Bedi. The company confirmed that its integrated operations in India – including research and development, sourcing of botanical ingredients and in-house manufacturing – will remain unchanged.
According to Stéphane de La Faverie, the move marks the next stage in a partnership that has developed over nearly two decades. He noted that the acquisition reflects the company’s confidence in Forest Essentials’ brand strength and growth potential in India.
Kulkarni added that the partnership will allow the brand to combine its Ayurvedic heritage with Estée Lauder’s global expertise, helping introduce luxury Ayurveda to a broader international audience.
