NEW DELHI:
Yoga guru Ramdev’s Patanjali has launched a messaging application, “Kimbho”, pitching it as a challenge to popular messaging app WhatsApp, which has over 1 billion downloads from Google Play Store. This “swadeshi messaging platform” comes after Patanjali launched Swadeshi Samriddhi sim cards.
Patanjali’s spokesperson SK Tijarawala tweeted, “Now Bharat will speak. After launching sim cards, Ramdev has launched a new messaging application called Kimbho. Now WhatsApp will be given a competition. Our own #SwadeshiMessagingplatform. Download it directly from Google Play store.”
Kimbho is a Sanskrit word, which is used to ask, “How are you? What’s new?” explained Mr Tijawarawala
Just like WhatsApp, one can either send direct messages to the person or create new groups to send out messages. Apart from this, one can form broadcast lists, follow celebrities and also doodle using Kimbho app.
Google Play Store describes Kimbho as a real time messaging app. “Kimbho empowers private group chat with free phone and video calling. It has dozens of amazing features to share text audio, photos, videos, stickers, quickies, location, GIF, Doodle and more,” the description reads.
Earlier Ramdev’s Patanjali Ayurved tied up with state-run telecom company BSNL or Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited and launched Swadeshi Samriddhi SIM cards on May 27.
After its full launch, people will be given a discount of 10 per cent on Patanjali products with the SIM card.
The vast Patanjali Ayurved empire, which began by selling homegrown herbal remedies wildly popular in large parts of India, now offers products ranging from food, cosmetics, home care and personal care products to apparel. Patanjali Ayurved had formally launched its e-commerce operations with website Patanjaliayurved.net earlier this year.
It has nearly 5,000 retail outlets across India.
Patanjali has also branched out into private security, offering army-like training for recruits.
