In an interview with TimesTech, Shyam Motwani, Business head of Locks & Architectural Solution a part of Godrej Enterprises Group, shares how the brand is transforming home security with design-forward smart locks. He discusses blending traditional safety mechanisms with cutting-edge IoT features, catering to evolving urban lifestyles, and how user-centric innovation is driving the company’s legacy of trust into the modern era of smart living.
Read the full interview here:
TimesTech: Godrej Locks & Architectural Solutions is showcasing smart, design-forward locking systems at the Smart Home Expo 2025. How do these solutions address the evolving security needs of the modern Indian home?
Shyam: There are three key aspects that are resonating strongly with our target audience when it comes to digital locks. Firstly, these solutions are perceived to offer significantly enhanced safety for homes and offices. Secondly, they elevate the aesthetics of entryways—especially the main door, which is a focal point in Indian homes. And thirdly, they bring unmatched convenience through keyless access, aligning perfectly with the evolving lifestyle needs of today’s homeowners.
TimesTech: You’ve led the division through significant growth and diversification. What role has design innovation played in expanding your product portfolio and engaging the next-generation consumer?
Shyam: Design and innovation have been the cornerstone of our journey for over a decade now. We’ve consistently invested in creating stylish and modern products—from main door mechanical locks to internal door handle locks. This design-first approach has played a pivotal role in expanding our presence across categories and increasing our market share, especially in segments like window and internal door locks. It has allowed us to connect with both new-age consumers and those looking to replace older locks, while reinforcing the trust they place in the Godrej brand. We are now widely recognized not just for safety, but also for offering aesthetically appealing, contemporary solutions for home security.
TimesTech: With over three decades of experience across industries, how do you see the intersection of traditional security mechanisms and emerging smart technologies shaping the future of home architecture?
Shyam: What we’re seeing is a seamless blend of traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with cutting-edge digital technologies. Given our deep legacy in mechanical locks, the natural progression was to integrate these with smart digital systems. This involves meticulous hardware design coupled with intuitive digital access—be it via biometrics, passcodes, RFID, or mobile apps.
Moreover, we’ve now entered the era of IoT-enabled smart locks. These are not only AI-powered but are also compatible with video doorbells, video phones, Wi-Fi cameras, and other connected devices. In essence, our digital locks are built around a robust mechanical core, wrapped in intelligent digital interfaces that offer both personalized access and superior safety. It’s this synergy between tradition and innovation that sets us apart.
TimesTech: Consumer behavior is shifting rapidly, especially in urban India. What are some key trends you’re observing in how Indian homeowners are reimagining their spaces with smart fittings and architectural enhancements?
Shyam: There is a marked shift in how Indian consumers, particularly in urban areas, are approaching home interiors. Whether building new homes or renovating existing ones, they are placing a strong emphasis on design and modern functionality. Smart devices are now viewed as a key element of sophisticated living. Homeowners are seeking digital solutions that not only provide security and convenience but also complement the overall aesthetics of their spaces. Our smart locks cater to this demand by combining sleek design with advanced features, allowing consumers to express their modern sensibilities through their home entrances.
TimesTech: Godrej has been a household name for decades. How is the brand balancing legacy trust with the agility and innovation required in today’s smart home ecosystem?
Shyam: Our legacy of 128 years speaks volumes about the trust we have built with millions of Indian consumers. That foundation has enabled us to evolve and adapt to new technologies seamlessly. By leveraging our deep consumer understanding and continuously investing in R&D, we’ve been able to introduce smart locks that are high on technology, aesthetics, and convenience.
This blend of heritage and innovation allows us to offer solutions that resonate with both long-time loyalists and new-age buyers. We are proud to remain the gold standard in safety, while also being at the forefront of the smart home revolution.
TimesTech: From advanced locking systems to aesthetic design, your offerings aim to blend functionality with form. Could you elaborate on the R&D and user feedback process behind these intelligent solutions?
Shyam: Our product development is deeply rooted in consumer insights. We operate in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment involving ecosystem partners, architects, interior designers, and channel stakeholders. Their feedback plays a crucial role in shaping our product pipeline.
One of the standout examples of this approach is the Advantis IoT 9, our latest smart lock that offers nine different modes of access. This was a direct outcome of listening to what consumers and influencers needed in terms of flexibility, security, and ease of use.
Additionally, we run a unique initiative called the “My Home Safety Plan,” wherein our service network consults with current homeowners who may still be using older mechanical locks. This initiative helps them transition to smarter solutions based on personalized assessments, thereby future-proofing their home security in line with technological advancements.
