ArattaiA
 | |
| Developer(s) | Zoho Corporation |
|---|---|
| Initial release | 2020 (as Zoho Messenger); rebranded as Arattai in 2025 |
| Operating system | Android, iOS, Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android TV |
| Type | Instant messaging |
| License | Proprietary |
| Website | https://www.arattai.in/ |
History
Arattai was developed by Zoho Corporation, founded by Sridhar Vembu in 1996. Initially built on Zoho’s enterprise communication tools, the app was rebranded and launched to the public in 2025 as part of India’s push for digital self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Zoho leveraged over a decade of experience in collaboration software to create Arattai, aiming to provide a secure, indigenous alternative to apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. By October 2025, Arattai had achieved significant downloads, topping charts on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in India, following promotions by Union Ministers such as Piyush Goyal and Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Features
Arattai offers a range of features typical of modern messaging apps, with some unique additions tailored for Indian users:
- Text and voice messaging
- Audio and video calls
- File sharing (images, documents, locations)
- Group chats and channels
- Support for multiple devices, including Android TV for video calls
- Customizable themes and Tamil language support
- Integration with Zoho’s ecosystem for business users
Unlike competitors, Arattai does not rely on cloud services from AWS, Azure, or Google, hosting all data on Zoho’s own servers in India. It also supports web and desktop versions for seamless cross-platform use.
Reception and Endorsements
Arattai has received widespread praise for its indigenous development and alignment with India’s self-reliance goals. Prominent endorsements include:
- Industrialist Anand Mahindra, who downloaded the app “with pride” and engaged in public support with Sridhar Vembu.
- Government ministers like Piyush Goyal, who promoted homegrown SaaS companies.
- Right-wing activists and nationalists highlighting its “Swadeshi” nature.
Media outlets such as The Indian Express and Economic Times have highlighted features like its rapid user growth and potential to challenge WhatsApp’s dominance in India.
Privacy and Security Concerns
Despite its focus on data sovereignty, Arattai has been criticized for not implementing end-to-end encryption, a standard feature in apps like Signal and WhatsApp. Users and experts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit have raised alarms about potential government surveillance, given Zoho’s perceived ties to the Indian government. Critics argue that hosting data in India could make it easier for authorities to access information without user consent. Zoho has stated that user data is not shared with third parties without permission, but the lack of E2E encryption remains a key point of contention.
Controversies
Arattai’s launch coincided with debates over its name, with some users from northern India criticizing the Tamil origin, leading to calls for a name change. Founder Sridhar Vembu’s praise for news anchor Arnab Goswami, often labeled as “Godi media” for alleged pro-BJP bias, fueled boycott calls from critics who fear political alignment could compromise user privacy. Social media discussions highlight a divide: supporters view it as a national pride symbol, while detractors see it as a potential “government trap” for data harvesting.
References
- Arattai Messenger – Apps on Google Play
- Arattai – Chat and Calling app
- Zoho’s Arattai: How to install it and five features that stand out – The Indian Express
- Arattai is a privacy nightmare – Reddit
- Not WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram, only Zoho’s Arattai gives users… – Livemint
External links
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