In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian consumer electronics, global brands face the constant challenge of balancing innovation, affordability, and local relevance. AKAI, a legendary Japanese brand with a remarkable 90-year heritage, is making a strategic comeback to the Indian market. In this exclusive interview, Jyoti Janda, Executive Editor, Telecom Today, talks to Anurag Sharma, Managing Director & CEO of AKAI India, to explore the brand’s thoughtful re-entry strategy.
Jyoti: AKAI is a globally renowned Japanese brand with a 90-year legacy. What inspired the brand's re-entry into the Indian market, and how are you planning to position AKAI in the highly competitive consumer electronics segment here?
Anurag: India isn’t just growing, it’s evolving. Consumers today are seeking dependable performance, smart features, and timeless design, all at the right value. That’s exactly where AKAI steps in.
Backed by a 90-year global legacy of Japanese innovation, AKAI re-entered India with one goal: to raise the bar in home technology without raising the cost. We’re positioning ourselves as the “Gold Standard” in smart, practical electronics, offering solutions that are engineered to last, designed to perform, and priced to move. In a crowded market, we’re not trying to blend in. We’re here to stand out, quietly, confidently, and consistently.
Jyoti: The newly launched AC series—Siaachen, Nilgiree, and Kaashmir—are uniquely named after Indian regions. What’s the concept behind this branding, and how do these models cater specifically to India’s diverse climates and consumer needs?
Anurag: These names are our tribute to the geography of India and a signal to the challenges each model is built to conquer.
Siaachen: Ready for India’s harshest summers, this one is heavy-duty AC and thrives at 55°C.
Nilgiree: Tailored for economical needs, moderate to warm zones, with efficient all-season comfort.
Kaashmir: Perfect for all-weather needs, built to heat and cool with ease.
The idea is simple: no two Indian regions are alike, and neither should their ACs be. This naming isn’t cosmetic, it’s functional. It tells you exactly what each model is made for.
Jyoti: Indian consumers are becoming more conscious about energy efficiency, air quality, and long-term durability. How do AKAI’s ACs address these evolving expectations, especially when it comes to innovation and affordability?
Anurag: Today’s consumer knows what they want and demands more from every appliance. AKAI delivers.
Flexi Mode Inverter Technology (up to 5-in-1) lets you control performance and power usage in real time.
PM 1 filters and Ayurvedic filters ensure the air you breathe is clean and fresh.
100% copper coils and Blue Fin coating enhance product life, even in coastal or humid regions.
We’ve built our ACs to not just match expectations but stay ahead of them. And we’ve done it without inflating the price tag. Innovation and affordability can and should go hand in hand.
Jyoti: Could you elaborate on the key features that differentiate each of the three AC series? How should a consumer choose between Siaachen, Nilgiree, and Kaashmir based on their lifestyle or regional climate?
Anurag: Each series is designed with a purpose. Here's how to choose:
Siaachen Series – If you're living in regions with extreme heat—North India, Central India—this is your go-to. With cooling up to 55°C, a 4-way swing, and multi-layered filtration, it’s heavy-duty power and performance packed in one.
Nilgiree Series – Economical and Ideal for Indian homes. Flexi Modes, PM 1 filters, and sleek, versatile operation make this perfect for everyday use with variable climates.
Kaashmir Series – Your all-rounder. If you’re in a place with cold winters and hot summers, this delivers all-season comfort with -10°C to 55°C operation, 4-way swing, and consistent performance.
It’s not just about buying an AC, it’s about choosing the one that works with your climate, your home, and your lifestyle.
Jyoti: What’s AKAI’s go-to-market strategy in India for its AC segment, especially in terms of availability, after-sales support, service centers, and digital presence for B2C outreach?
Anurag: Our strategy is simple: meet the customer where they are.
Available across India through major retail outlets, regional distributors, and our dedicated D2C website.
A fast-expanding network of service centers and trained Akai engineers ensure quick, reliable after-sales support.
On digital, we’re going beyond ads, building content-led engagement that helps customers understand, compare, and confidently choose the right AC.
We’re not just selling products, we’re building a long-term relationship with every household we enter.
Jyoti: How does the Japanese philosophy of “MOTTAINAI” reflect in AKAI’s latest consumer products, and how are you educating Indian consumers about the value and efficiency that this philosophy brings to modern home appliances?
Anurag: “MOTTAINAI” is the art of not letting anything go to waste and it’s deeply embedded in our design process. It means building products that deliver maximum performance with minimum resource wastage. From smart inverter modes that scale power usage, to high-durability materials that extend the life of the appliance, our entire product philosophy is driven by efficiency, longevity, and intelligent use of technology.
We’re actively educating consumers through product videos, in-store explainers, and our D2C website, helping them see how every feature translates into real-world savings and value.
