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About Astra

Astra Browser is a privacy-first browser built in India for a faster, safer and more focused web. It is independently developed, open source, and built on Firefox technology — evolved from Zen Browser, with a focus on user control over data collection.

01 Origin

Why Astra exists

Astra started from a simple belief: the browser should belong to the person using it. A browser is where we read, work, learn, and explore every day — it should feel intentional, private, and customizable, not built for data collection or engagement metrics.

I did not start Astra because the world needed another browser. I started it because I wanted to understand what a browser could become when it is built around the user.

Astra is being built in India, for people in India and for users everywhere. India's technology ecosystem is growing rapidly — millions of people are coming online with diverse languages, scripts, and needs that deserve software built with them in mind.

02 Technology

Built on open foundations

Astra is built on Firefox technology and evolved from the Zen Browser codebase. It uses the mature Gecko engine — not because of a partnership, but because this foundation offers extensibility, a privacy-oriented philosophy, and real user control.

The project is maintained by Hrishikesh Gade, a solo developer — with contributions from the open-source community on GitHub.

Foundation

  • Mature browser engine technology (Gecko / Firefox)
  • Open-source ecosystem and extensibility
  • Privacy-oriented development philosophy
  • User control over the browsing experience

Astra is not affiliated with or endorsed by Mozilla or Zen Browser.

03 Principles

What we stand for

Privacy by Default

Your browsing experience should not require giving up unnecessary data.

User Control

Your browser should adapt to you — not the other way around.

Open Source

Technology should be inspectable, understandable and improvable.

India First

Built with India's users, languages and needs in mind.

Built with Purpose

Every feature should have a reason to exist.

Because I believe good software is worth building. Because India can build technology for the world.

— Hrishikesh Gade

Meet the developer → View on GitHub → Support the project →