Top 10 Surprising Facts About Paints That Will Fascinate You

 

Introduction:

Paint is more than just color on a wall — it’s a blend of science, art, and history. From ancient cave paintings to high-tech smart coatings, the journey of paint is truly remarkable. In this post, we reveal 10 surprising and lesser-known facts about paints that will leave you amazed!

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10 Amazing Facts About Paints:

1. The Oldest Paintings Are Over 40,000 Years Old

The earliest known paintings were found in Indonesian caves, dating back more than 44,000 years. Early humans used natural pigments like charcoal, ochre, and animal fat to create stunning artworks.

2. Milk Paints Were Used in Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egyptians made paint from a mix of milk, lime, and pigments. Milk paints are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and still used today for a rustic, matte finish.

3. Lead-Based Paint Was Common Until the 1970s

For decades, lead was a major ingredient in paints due to its durability and bright colors. However, it posed serious health risks and was banned in most countries by the 1970s.

4. The Color “Mummy Brown” Was Made from Real Mummies

In the 16th to 19th centuries, a pigment called “Mummy Brown” was made by grinding up Egyptian mummies. It was eventually discontinued for ethical reasons.

5. Modern Paints Can Clean the Air

Photocatalytic paints contain titanium dioxide, which reacts with sunlight to break down pollutants, helping to clean indoor and outdoor air.

6. Paint Helps Regulate Building Temperature

Cool roof paints with reflective properties can reduce heat absorption by up to 50%, lowering indoor temperatures and saving on energy costs.

7. Auto-Repainting “Self-Healing” Paints Exist

Innovations in nanotechnology have led to self-healing paints for cars and gadgets that can repair minor scratches automatically using heat or UV light.

8. The Color Psychology of Paint is Real

Colors affect mood and behavior. For instance, blue promotes calmness, while red boosts energy. This is why paint color selection is vital in interior design.

9. Paint Thickness is Measured in Microns

The paint you see on walls is just 70-100 microns thick (1 micron = 1/1000th of a millimeter). Despite its thin layer, it offers protection and aesthetic appeal.

10. Global Paint Market is Worth Over $200 Billion

The global paints and coatings industry is booming, with a market size exceeding $200 billion, driven by infrastructure, automotive, and decorative applications.

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Conclusion:

From ancient cave art to smart coatings, paints have been an essential part of human life, combining beauty, protection, and innovation. Next time you pick up a paintbrush, remember — there’s a whole world of fascinating science and history behind those vibrant colors!

Asian Paints Under Pressure: Can the Market Leader Reclaim Its Dominance in 2025?

 

Introduction:
Asian Paints, the undisputed leader in India's decorative paints market, is facing a serious challenge. With Aditya Birla Group’s aggressive foray into the paints segment through Birla Opus, the competition is fiercer than ever. Backed by deep pockets, steep discounts, and an ambitious expansion strategy, Birla Opus has shaken the industry's foundations. As Asian Paints battles declining profits and questions about its culture and strategy, one big question looms—can it bounce back in 2025?

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Birla Opus: A Bold New Challenger

When Aditya Birla Group entered the $9 billion Indian paint market, it did so with intent. Offering a 10% discount right out of the gate and committing over ₹10,000 crore in investments, the company quickly caught the attention of dealers nationwide. In just a year, Birla Opus has established itself as a serious contender, expanding its distribution footprint and rolling out over 129 products with 900+ SKUs across 4,300 towns.

The plan is clear: disrupt the status quo. By FY26, the company aims for an installed capacity of 1,322 million litres per annum, and its dealer base is closing in on the 50,000 mark.

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                                          projected paint market share in India for 2025.

Asian Paints: Slipping Numbers and Strategic Scrutiny

For Asian Paints, the numbers tell a sobering story. Its stock fell nearly 15% over the past year, wiping out ₹40,000 crore in market value. Q3 earnings showed a 24% drop in profit and a 6.1% decline in consolidated sales. Investors and analysts are now scrutinizing the company’s sluggish response, talent attrition, and outdated marketing strategy.

Once hailed as a leadership powerhouse, second only to Hindustan Unilever, Asian Paints now finds itself fighting to stay ahead.

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A Culture Under Question

Beyond numbers, the company’s internal dynamics have sparked concern. Key talent has exited, and questions are being raised about the operational experience of third-generation promoters. Critics argue that Asian Paints has lost strategic clarity and emotional connection with consumers.

While diversification into categories like kitchens and lighting seemed promising, a decade later, the results remain underwhelming. The brand’s identity and communication, once vibrant and iconic, now feel disconnected and uninspiring.

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                         Projected market share changes in the Indian paint industry from 2022 to 2025.

The Fightback: Strategic Moves by Asian Paints

Despite the turbulence, Asian Paints is not sitting idle. The company has ramped up dealer incentives, launched affordable product variants, and increased marketing spend. Its latest campaign, launched during the IPL, leans into nostalgia with the message: “Asian Paints ki Warranty, India ka Har Doosra Ghar Kehta Hai.”

CEO Amit Syngle remains optimistic. “We believe in taking calibrated, sustainable actions to address competition,” he says, signaling a more aggressive but thoughtful strategy ahead.

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             Major paint companies in India, showing 2024 vs 2025

Industry Reactions and the Road Ahead

While Birla Opus is making headlines, experts like Berger Paints MD Abhijit Roy warn that price-based disruption isn’t always sustainable. As competitors like JSW and Indigo Paints gear up to grab more market share—and possibly acquire AkzoNobel’s India business—the pressure is rising on every front.

Yet, Asian Paints still commands over 50% of the market. With the right strategy, culture renewal, and consumer engagement, it can mount a strong comeback.

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Conclusion: A Defining Year for Asian Paints

2025 could well be a turning point. The company has the legacy, the network, and the resources. But will that be enough? To truly regain its shine, Asian Paints must evolve—not just respond. Its future will be defined by how well it adapts to today’s competitive landscape and tomorrow’s consumer expectations.