Mokobara is making waves in India’s luggage industry by combining stylish design, functionality, and strategic partnerships to cater to the modern traveller. From celebrity-backed initiatives to innovative product lines, the brand is carving a niche in the mid- to premium-priced travel segment.
Founders’ Journey
Founded in 2020 by Navin Parwal and Sangeet Agrawal, Mokobara emerged from the founders’ shared vision to create luggage and travel products that are both stylish and practical. With prior experience at Uber, WeWork, and Flipkart, the duo recognized a gap in India’s market: travellers were seeking products that went beyond basic functionality and reflected personal style.
“We’re not just a luggage company, we’re a travel company. We care about every part of the travel experience, from commuting to long-haul flights,” said Parwal.
Filling the Market Gap
Traditionally, the Indian luggage market was dominated by budget homegrown brands like Safari and VIP, and premium global names like Samsonite. Mokobara targets the mid-market segment, roughly 30% of the Rs. 20,000 crore industry, offering high-quality, aesthetically pleasing products at accessible prices.
“Consumers are moving from basic products to stylish brands. They want luggage that matches that lifestyle evolution,” noted Agrawal.
Design-Centric Approach
Mokobara’s design philosophy is grounded in minimalism, functionality, and thoughtful user experience. Collaborating with London-based design agency Morrama, the brand developed its first cabin bag and established a signature design language influenced by the Swedish principle of Lagom — “not too much, not too little.”
Key design features include:
- Japanese Hinomoto Wheels for smooth mobility
- Reinforced hard-shells for durability without sacrificing style
- Signature Yellow Lining symbolizing joy and positivity
- Thoughtful extras like USB ports, laundry bags, and a magic eraser for cleaning marks
Mokobara’s backpacks and luggage have become best-sellers, demonstrating that design and utility can go hand in hand.
Retail and Expansion Strategy
While luggage accounts for 55% of sales, Mokobara is expanding its portfolio to include handbags and lifestyle products. The brand follows an online-first retail strategy, selling through its website and e-commerce marketplaces, while also operating two offline stores in Bengaluru.
Strategic Collaborations
Mokobara recently partnered with IndiGo Airlines, launching a limited-edition Moko 6E luggage collection in the airline’s signature blue, allowing travellers extra baggage allowance. The brand has also garnered Bollywood star Deepika Padukone as an investor, leveraging her insights on design and trends to reach a wider audience.
Funding and Growth
Mokobara has raised $11.6 million across four funding rounds and achieved an ARR of Rs. 180 crore, up from Rs. 12 crore in FY22. The post-pandemic travel boom and rising demand for premium products have fueled the brand’s growth, with backing from investors like Alteria Capital, Strive Venture Partners, and Mumbai Angels.
The Road Ahead
Focused on building a long-term consumer brand, Mokobara aims to maintain consistency in messaging: travel is an experience to be celebrated, and Mokobara makes it stylish and enjoyable. With its unique blend of innovative design, strategic partnerships, and lifestyle-focused products, Mokobara is set to redefine the way India travels.