Healthtech startup CURAPOD has secured Rs 20 crore in a pre-Series A round led by V3 Ventures, with participation from 3i Partners and Ideaspring Capital. The funding will support product development, go-to-market expansion and manufacturing scale-up as the company seeks to broaden its presence in India and select global markets.
Technology-driven, non-invasive approach to pain management
Founded in 2022 by Sri Velliyur and Surya Maguluri and operating under Litemed India, CURAPOD develops wearable medical devices targeting common and chronic musculoskeletal pain such as back and knee pain, muscle stiffness, sports injuries and joint discomfort. The core device uses photobiomodulation therapy—red and near‑infrared light therapy—aimed at reducing inflammation, improving perfusion and supporting cellular repair.
Unlike pharmacological treatments, CURAPOD’s solution is positioned as a drug‑free, non‑invasive option for daily use, intended for both symptomatic relief and rehabilitative support. The company highlights clinical evidence for photobiomodulation as part of its product positioning.
Planned use of funds: product, digital and supply-chain investment
CURAPOD plans to allocate the Rs 20 crore to several priorities: enhancing research and development, upgrading its companion mobile application for personalised, data‑driven pain management, and expanding manufacturing capacity. The capital will also be used to streamline supply chains and strengthen direct‑to‑consumer distribution.
The startup is expanding its commercial footprint across online marketplaces and establishing partnerships with physiotherapy centres, hospitals, fitness facilities and sports rehabilitation networks to reach both consumers and clinical channels.
Ambition to scale beyond India
While India remains the primary market, CURAPOD intends to pursue regulated international markets, particularly in Europe, by exploring partnerships and compliance pathways required for medical devices. The company’s strategy is to move beyond a wellness positioning to gain recognition as a healthtech medical‑device brand with clinically validated offerings.
Investor rationale and sector context
Investors cited the large, under‑served pain management market and CURAPOD’s combination of wearable design, clinical credibility and consumer accessibility as reasons for backing the round. Chronic pain is a growing public‑health concern globally, creating demand for solutions that balance efficacy with ease of use and minimal side effects.
The funding comes amid rising investor interest in Indian healthtech, particularly startups that integrate medical science with consumer technology to address preventive care, rehabilitation and long‑term condition management. CURAPOD’s raise reflects this trend and positions the company for a scaling phase focused on broader adoption and regulatory progress abroad.
