Arattai Gains Ground as WhatsApp Alternative in India
In recent weeks, a new messaging application called Arattai has gained significant traction in India, positioning itself as a formidable alternative to WhatsApp. Developed by Zoho, an Indian tech company, Arattai’s rise reflects a growing preference for homegrown digital solutions amid a backdrop of government initiatives promoting self-reliance.
The Surge in Popularity
Arattai, which translates to “casual conversation” in Tamil, was initially soft-launched in 2021 but remained relatively unnoticed until its recent explosion in popularity. The app reportedly achieved seven million downloads within just a week, a remarkable feat that signals a potential challenge to WhatsApp, which boasts over 500 million monthly active users in India.
Zoho’s founder, Sridhar Vembu, highlighted a dramatic increase in user engagement, with daily sign-ups soaring from 3,000 to 350,000. On October 1, 2025, the app even recorded two million sign-ups in a single day. This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including a government push for local products and a growing sentiment for supporting Indian technology.
Government Support and National Sentiment
The Indian government has been actively promoting the “Make in India” initiative, encouraging citizens to adopt domestic products. Senior ministers, including Dharmendra Pradhan and Piyush Goyal, have publicly endorsed Arattai as part of the broader “swadeshi” movement. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not specifically endorsed the app, his calls for supporting Indian innovations have undoubtedly contributed to its rising popularity.
This national sentiment is further amplified by social media, where users are sharing their experiences and encouraging others to try the app. The combination of government backing and viral marketing has created a fertile ground for Arattai’s growth.
Features and Functionality
Arattai offers a range of features that make it competitive with WhatsApp. Users can engage in group chats with up to 1,000 participants, share documents and media, and utilize dedicated channels for organized communication. The app emphasizes accessibility and privacy, catering to users who prioritize these aspects in their messaging experience.
Despite its rapid growth, Arattai still trails behind WhatsApp in terms of user base. However, its recent success on the Google Play Store, where it surpassed 10 million downloads, indicates a strong upward trajectory.
Expanding Beyond India
Arattai’s appeal is not limited to India. The company has acknowledged interest from users in the UAE and is actively working to address access issues in that region. This international interest suggests that Arattai may soon expand its reach beyond Indian borders, potentially tapping into new markets.
The Vision Behind Zoho
Sridhar Vembu, who co-founded Zoho in 1996, has a vision of decentralizing operations to rural India, aiming to harness untapped talent. The company is self-funded and privately held, reflecting Vembu’s commitment to maintaining independence and fostering sustainable growth.
Under Vembu’s leadership, Zoho has developed over 55 products and serves 130 million users globally. The company also invests in social initiatives, such as the Zoho Schools of Learning, which provide educational opportunities for students in rural areas.
In 2025, Vembu transitioned from CEO to Chief Scientist, with co-founder Shailesh Kumar Davey taking over as Group CEO. Vembu’s journey from rural Tamil Nadu to becoming one of India’s wealthiest individuals exemplifies the potential for innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
FAQs
What is Arattai?
Arattai is a messaging app developed by Zoho, designed as a secure and user-friendly alternative to WhatsApp, focusing on group chats, media sharing, and privacy.
How has the Indian government supported Arattai?
The Indian government has endorsed Arattai as part of its “Make in India” initiative, encouraging citizens to support domestic technology and products.
What are the key features of Arattai?
Arattai supports group chats of up to 1,000 participants, document sharing, media sharing, and dedicated channels for organized communication, emphasizing accessibility and privacy.
Conclusion
Arattai’s rapid rise in popularity highlights a significant shift in India’s digital landscape, driven by government support and a growing preference for local solutions. As the app continues to expand its features and user base, it may pose a serious challenge to established players like WhatsApp. The coming months will be crucial in determining how this competition unfolds and whether Arattai can sustain its momentum.
Also Read:
Gitex 2025 Showcases Tech Innovations Transforming UAE Life
Zoho Achieves Growth and AI Milestones at GITEX 2025
Holistic Medicine’s Growth in the UAE: A New Healthcare Era
