The Hair & Beauty Federation India (HBF India) successfully concluded its first-ever National Convention, Manthan, on January 7, 2026, in Udaipur. Read along to know what unfolded at the event.
The landmark gathering Manthan, a national conference hosted by HBF India, brought together the entire Indian hair and beauty industry. The event marked a significant milestone in the journey towards organising, regulating, and globally positioning India’s rapidly growing hair and beauty industry.
Held with the participation of industry leaders, artists, educators, and association representatives from across the country, the convention laid the foundation for long-term policy advocacy and structured growth.
Nationwide participation and unified industry voice
The convention witnessed participation from nearly 250 selected representatives across 15 Indian states, including leading beauty artists, hair experts, educators, salon owners, and association heads. Delegates travelled from across the country to be part of this historic forum, underscoring the need for a unified national platform for the hair and beauty sector.
The event opened with an inaugural session followed by panel discussions, presentations, and a creative fashion showcase featuring hair and beauty models from multiple states, highlighting regional talent and contemporary creative expression.
Key issues discussed at Manthan
During the convention, discussions took place on 13 critical issues impacting the industry at a national level. Central to the discussions was the urgent need to establish National and State-Level Hair Art Boards. They would act as regulatory and developmental bodies for the sector.
Another major focus area was raising awareness against counterfeit and fake beauty products. This is because they pose serious health risks to professionals and consumers alike. The federation stressed the importance of consumer education, stricter monitoring, and collaboration with authorities to curb the circulation of spurious cosmetic products.
Education, health and safety take centre stage
Education and skill development emerged as key pillars during the discussions. The need for standardised training, certification, and continuous education for beauty professionals was strongly emphasised. Health and safety protocols, particularly concerning the use of chemical-based cosmetics, were also highlighted as a priority area.
Delegates discussed introducing awareness initiatives for professionals regarding workplace safety, chemical exposure, and hygiene standards, alongside advocating for structured health and social security benefits, including pension schemes, for those working in the sector.
Leadership voices and future roadmap
Uday Takke, National Vice President of Hair & Beauty Federation India, highlighted that the federation came alive during the COVID period when the industry faced unprecedented challenges. Since then, HBF India has expanded its reach to almost all states, bringing together over 100 beauty, makeup, and hair styling associations under one umbrella.
National President Ashok Paldiwal shared that the resolutions and decisions taken at Manthan would be formally presented to relevant government bodies through a national committee, ensuring industry concerns reach policymakers at the highest level.
Towards a globally recognised industry
The convention finally concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen unity, professionalism, and global recognition for India’s hair and beauty industry. With discussions spanning regulation, education, health, business development, and industry recognition, Manthan set the tone for a more organised, empowered, and future-ready beauty ecosystem in India.
The first National Convention of HBF India stands as a defining moment. It aims at transforming dialogue into direction and vision into action for the industry at large.
