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Tag: Shark Tank India

  • Sharks on Land: A Look at Shark Tank India Judges’ Achievements

    The Shark Tank India judges each have an impressive resume full of varied skills and noteworthy accomplishments from their respective fields. Aside from their roles as judges on the show, these individuals have made significant contributions to a variety of industries, demonstrating remarkable leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

    Their travels are engraved with stories of victory and difficulties, capturing the essence of perseverance and vision. From pioneering ventures to leading multimillion-dollar enterprises, their footprints are felt across industries, making an everlasting influence on the Indian economic landscape. Their contributions will inspire future generations and pave the way for a more prosperous and promising future for humankind as the journey progresses.

    1. Ashneer Grover
    2. Vineeta Singh
    3. Aman Gupta
    4. Anupam Mittal
    5. Namita Thapar
    6. Ghazal Alagh
    7. Ritesh Agarwal
    8. Azhar Iqubal
    9. Ronnie Screwvala
    10. Radhika Gupta
    11. Deepinder Goyal
    12. Peyush Bansal
    13. Varun Dua
    14. Kunal Bahl
    15. Viraj Bahl
    16. Vikas D Nahar

    Ashneer Grover

    Name Ashneer Grover
    Born 14 June 1982
    Position Ex-founder and Managing Director of BharatPe
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Ashneer Grover
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Ashneer Grover

    As the ex-founder and Managing Director of BharatPe, Ashneer Grover has left an indelible mark on India’s fintech landscape. A graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, Grover’s journey includes stints at renowned companies like Kotak Investment Bank, Grofers, PC Jeweller Ltd., and American Express. His brainchild, the BharatPe app, launched in 2018, has garnered over one crore downloads on the Play Store.

    Grover’s accolades include:

    • The Entrepreneur of the Year award in January 2021
    • The Young Achiever’s award was also bestowed upon him in January 2021

    Vineeta Singh

    Name Vinita Singh
    Born 1983
    Position Co-founder & CEO of Sugar Cosmetics
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Vineeta Singh
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Vineeta Singh

    Co-founder & CEO of Sugar Cosmetics, Vineeta Singh, has been instrumental in shaping the beauty industry in India.

    Vineeta’s entrepreneurial journey has been decorated with numerous accolades:

    • The Startup of the Year 2019 by Entrepreneur Awards, Delhi
    • Singh’s leadership prowess landed her on the cover of Forbes Most Powerful Women (MPW) in Business in December 2021
    • She was recognized in the Economic Times’ 40 Under 40 list in 2021

    Aman Gupta

    Name Aman Gupta
    Born 4 March 1982
    Position Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of boAt
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Aman Gupta
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Aman Gupta

    A powerhouse in the tech industry, Aman Gupta is the co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer at boAt. Gupta’s entrepreneurial spirit has been lauded with several prestigious awards, such as the Businessworld Young Entrepreneur Award in 2019 and the Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2020. Under his leadership, the boat achieved the distinction of being named the World’s Top 5 Wearable Brand in both 2020 and 2021.

    Aman Gupta’s other achievements include: 

    • In 2019, he was on the list of Entrepreneur India Tech 25 Class
    • In 2020, he was the winner of Super 30 CMOs
    • In 2020, he was on the list of 40 under 40 Achievers by Businessworld, The Economic Times
    • In 2021, he won the Lokmat Most Stylish Entrepreneur of the Year
    • In 2021, he was on the list of 40 Under 40 list of Economic Times

    Who is the Richest Shark in Shark Tank India? | Net Worth of Entire Cast of Shark Tank India
    Shark Tank India season 4 is set to return with a panel of amazing judges. Check out the sharks’ net worth and the fees charged by them. Explore the entire cast of Shark Tank India judges here.
    StartupTalkyDamini Bhandary

    Anupam Mittal

    Name Anupam Mittal
    Born 23 December 1971
    Position Founder & CEO of People Group and Shaadi.com
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Anupam Mittal
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Anupam Mittal

    As the founder & CEO of People Group and Shaadi.com, Anupam Mittal has revolutionized the online matchmaking industry. His impact extends beyond business, as he has been recognized among the top 25 people frequently searched by The Week magazine and listed among India’s 50 Most Powerful People by Business Week.

    Anupam Mittal’s contributions have earned him below accolades:

    • The Entrepreneur of the Year award by IT People
    • The Karamveer Puraskar

    Namita Thapar

    Name Namita Thapar
    Born 21 March 1977
    Position Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Namita Thapar
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Namita Thapar

    Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, is a trailblazer in the pharmaceutical sector.

    Namita’s exemplary leadership has garnered numerous achievements:

    • Recognition in The Economic Times Women Ahead List 2017
    • The Economic Times’ 40 Under Forty
    • India’s Hottest Young Business Leaders List 2017
    • The Barclays Hurun Next Gen Leader Recognition and
    • The World Women Leadership Congress Super Achiever Award

    Success Story of Namita Thapar – Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals
    Namita Thapar is a well-known name when we examine the rise of women in business in India. Discover more about Namita’s net worth, investments, education, and more.
    StartupTalkySarika Anand

    Ghazal Alagh

    Name Ghazal Alagh
    Born 2 September 1988
    Position Co-founder and Chief Mama of Mamaearth
    Gazal Alagh Achievements
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Gazal Alagh

    Co-founder and Chief Mama of Mamaearth, Ghazal Alagh, has made significant strides in the realm of sustainable and natural beauty products.

    Gazal Alagh’s entrepreneurial journey has been punctuated with achievements such as receiving:

    • The Best Brand of the Year award for Mamaearth in 2018-2019
    • Named one of India’s forty under forty achievers in 2019.
    • Alagh’s commitment to excellence was further underscored by the Super StartUps Asia Award in 2019. 

    Ritesh Agarwal

    Name Ritesh Agarwal
    Born 16 November 1993
    Position Founder and CEO of OYO Rooms
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Ritesh Agarwal
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Ritesh Agarwal

    Founder and CEO of OYO Rooms, Ritesh Agarwal‘s entrepreneurial journey began at a young age and has catapulted him to global recognition. His remarkable achievements include being the first Asian resident to win the ’20 Under 20’ Thiel Fellowship and being listed in Forbes’s “30 Under 30” in the consumer tech sector. Agarwal’s innovative approach to hospitality has redefined the concept of budget accommodation worldwide.

    Ritesh’s other achievements include:

    • Top 50 Entrepreneurs by TATA First Dot Awards in 2013
    • Listed as “One of the 8 Hottest Teenage Startup Founders in the World” by Business Insider in 2013
    • Received TiE – Lumis Entrepreneurial Excellence Award in 2014
    • Young Entrepreneur Award by Business World in 2018

    Azhar Iqubal

    Name Azhar Iqubal
    Born 1993
    Position Co-founder and CEO of Inshorts
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Azhar Iqubal
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Azhar Iqubal

    Azhar Iqubal, co-founder and CEO of Inshorts, is a visionary entrepreneur who has disrupted the media landscape with his innovative news aggregation platform.

    Iqubal’s achievements include: 

    • Business World 40 under 40
    • Fortune India 40 under 40
    • Business World Young Entrepreneur Award
    • The Most Enterprising Brands 
    • Leaders of Asia Award
    • Forbes India 30 under 30
    • Forbes Asia 30 under 30

    Ronnie Screwvala

    Name Ronnie Screwvala
    Born 8 September 1962
    Position Co-founder of upGrad
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Ronnie Screwvala
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Ronnie Screwvala

    Co-founder of upGrad, Ronnie Screwvala, has been at the forefront of India’s digital education revolution. His contributions extend beyond business, as evidenced by the Swades Foundation, which aimed to lift a million people out of poverty. U Sports focused on nurturing talent in Kabaddi, E-Sports, and Football.

    Ronnie’s achievements include:

    • Esquire listed him as one of the 75 Most Influential People of the 21st Century in 2008
    • The Time 100 placed him 78th out of the 100 most influential people worldwide
    • Fortune Magazine ranked him as one of the 25 Most Powerful People in Asia.

    Radhika Gupta

    Name Radhika Gupta
    Born 14 September 1983
    Position Managing Director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Funds
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Radhika Gupta
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Radhika Gupta

    Managing Director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Funds, Radhika Gupta, is a stalwart in the finance sector and is recognized for her exemplary leadership and contributions. Gupta’s work in the finance sector has been acknowledged with various awards, including:

    • LinkedIn Top Voices in India −2021 in Finance & Economy in 2020
    • Fortune India’s 50 Most Powerful Women in Business in 2020
    • Economic Times 40 Under 40 Business Leaders Award in 2021
    • The Impact Creator Awards 2021, presented by the Governor of Maharashtra in 2021
    • Business Today: Most Powerful Women in Indian Business Awards
    • Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum- 2022
    • CII Young Women Leader of the Year from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in 2022
    • Forbes Women Power: Self-Made Women by Forbes India in 2022
    • Business Book of the Year: Self Help (Limitless) by FICCI Publishing, awarded in 2023

    Radhika Gupta: Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO to Shark Tank Judge
    Let’s dive into Radhika Gupta, CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, and discover her journey to success in the world of business.
    StartupTalkyKanimozhi Sivakumar

    Deepinder Goyal

    Name Deepinder Goyal
    Born 26 January 1983
    Position Co-founder and CEO of Zomato, Director of Upslope
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Deepinder Goyal
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Deepinder Goyal

    Deepinder Goyal is the co-founder and CEO of Zomato, a leading food delivery and restaurant discovery company. He started Zomato in 2008 with Pankaj Chaddah. Before Zomato, he worked at Bain & Company as a consultant. Deepinder is an IIT Delhi graduate and has played a key role in Zomato’s global growth.

    Deepinder Goyal won the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ award. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presented him with the award at the NDTV Indian of the Year—2024 event.

    Deepinder Goyal Success Story: Biography | Zomato | Net Worth
    Deepinder Goyal is the Co-founder and CEO of Zomato. Know more about his education, his net worth, his idea of founding Zomato, and his Success Story. Know more on Deepinder Goyal Wikipedia.
    StartupTalkyRishabh Rathi

    Peyush Bansal

    Name Peyush Bansal
    Born 26 April 1985
    Position Co-founder and CEO of Lenskart
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Peyush Bansal
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Peyush Bansal

    Peyush Bansal is the CEO and Co-Founder of Lenskart. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering — IT, Control, and Automation from McGill University. After a brief stint as a Program Manager at Microsoft, Bansal realized his desire to make a significant impact and returned to India to address the problem of vision correction. Peyush Bansal has been awarded with various accolades, some of his achievements are as follows:

    • Awarded Innovator of the Year Award at NDTV Indian of The Year Awards 2023-24
    • He received the ‘India TV Yuva Awards in 2015
    • Red Herring Top 100 Asia Award 2013
    • Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2012
    • British Honors Award at McGill University
    • Best 40 under 40 Entrepreneurs 2019 Fortune India

    Peyush Bansal Success Story: The Visionary Behind Lenskart’s Success | Education | Early Life | Personal Life
    Peyush Bansal is the co-founder and CEO of Lenskart. He was also a shark in Shark Tank India. Here’s a look at his education, career, investments, age, personal life, and more.
    StartupTalkyShalini Rath

    Varun Dua

    Name Varun Dua
    Born 1981
    Position Co-founder and CEO of Acko, Co-founder of Coverfox & Glitterbug Technologies
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Varun Dua
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Varun Dua

    Varun Dua is the CEO and the founder of the company, Acko. He completed his education at MICA, Ahmedabad, and the University of Mumbai. After finishing his graduation, Varun served as a trainee at Leo Burnett Advertising for less than a year. He then started his career as a marketing manager at Tata AIG Life Insurance and Franklin Templeton Investments. Varun then founded Coverfox Insurance Broking Pvt. Ltd. Before he founded Coverfox in 2013, Varun founded Glitterbug Technologies. Varun Dua holds a prominent role as one of the Sharks on Season 3 of Shark Tank, adding his expertise and insights to the entrepreneurial landscape.

    His achievements include:

    • Featured in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list for Finance.
    • Won the Global New Venture Challenge in 2020, receiving $20,000 for his startup idea.
    • Recognized as an influential entrepreneur by several business publications.

    Varun Dua: The Visionary Behind India’s Insurtech Revolution | Education | Family | Net worth | Acko
    Discover Varun Dua’s inspiring journey as the founder of Acko, India’s leading digital insurance platform, and his impact on the insurtech industry. Learn about Varun Dua’s family, education, net worth, age, and more from this article.
    StartupTalkySarika Anand

    Kunal Bahl

    Name Kunal Bahl
    Born 1 January 1984
    Position Co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Kunal Bahl
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Kunal Bahl

    Kunal is the co-founder of Snapdeal. Bahl was a student at the University of Pennsylvania, where he completed a degree in Systems Engineering. He is also an alumnus of The Wharton School where he studied Marketing and Operations Strategy and also did Executive Program in Marketing from Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management.

    Bahl was also there in the Jerome Fischer M&T Program. In his professional career, Kunal started as an Independent Director of Piramal Enterprises Limited before co-founding Snapdeal in 2010. Bahl also co-founded Titan Capital in 2011 and AceVector Group in June 2022. Thus, Kunal can be summed up as an investor and entrepreneur who aims to create impact through entrepreneurship.

    Kunal Bhal has been awarded with the following awards:

    • BMA Entrepreneur of the Year 2014 
    • ET Top 50 Entrepreneurs of India 2014
    • Ranked 25 on Fortune 40 under 40 most influential business leaders list 2014 
    • EY Entrepreneur of the Year – Startup 2014 
    • Nasscom NextGen Entrepreneur 2014 
    • The Economic Times Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2015
    • AIMA Transformational Business Leader of the Year 
    • Indian Affairs Business Leader of the Year 2015 
    • The Joseph Wharton Award for Young Leadership 2018
    • The Economic Times Comeback Award 2019

    Kunal Bahl: The Newest Shark in Shark Tank India | Personal Life | Education | Snapdeal
    Explore the biography of Kunal Bahl, co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital and now a part of the Shark Tank India cast. Learn about his early life, education, investments, and more.
    StartupTalkyShubham Kumar

    Viraj Bahl

    Name Viraj Bahl
    Born 1980
    Position Founder & Managing Director of Veeba
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Viraj Bahl
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Viraj Bahl

    Viraj Bahl is an innovative young entrepreneur with a passion for food. Viraj was born into a long line of entrepreneurs. He wanted to prove to his father that he could be more than just his son.

    Viraj had a lifelong passion for working in the food industry. From a failed restaurant business to building an INR 1,000 crore brand and becoming a new panelist on Shark Tank India, Viraj Bahl is a visionary entrepreneur whose passion for food turned into a national success. With much hard work, along with a few roadblocks, today Veeba stands as one of the largest homegrown sauce and condiments brands in India.

    Viraj’s achievements include:

    • Entrepreneur of the Year 2020 – Economic Times Awards for Innovation and Excellence in Indian Food Industry.
    • Top 50 Most Admired Entrepreneurs in India, 2018 Business Today for visionary leadership in building Veeba Foods.
    • Best Food Processing Brand, 2019 – Veeba, the Indian Food Forum has given an award that recognizes its high-quality and innovative offerings.
    • Sustainable Business Excellence 2021 Winner from FSSAI for Veeba’s commitment towards sustainability and healthy food production practices.
    • Fastest-Growing FMCG Brand, 2022 – Economic Times Edge Awarded to Veeba for fast growth and impact in the FMCG sector.

    Viraj Bahl: The Sauce King of India’s FMCG Sector | Education | Biography | Career |
    Discover Viraj Bahl’s journey from a failed restaurant business to building an INR 1,000 crore brand and becoming a new shark on Shark Tank India. Learn more about Viraj Bahl’s education, career, etc.
    StartupTalkySakshi Jadhav

    Vikas D Nahar

    Name Vikas D Nahar
    Born 1984
    Position Founder and CEO, Happilo
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges - Vikas D Nahar
    Achievements of Shark Tank India Judges – Vikas D Nahar

    Born in Bangalore, Vikas D Nahar comes from a farming family background that grew pepper and coffee. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Application from Bangalore University and began his career as a Senior Import Manager (Asia) at Jain Group Pvt. Ltd. Afterward, he pursued a Master of Business Administration in Marketing from the Symbiosis Centre For Management and Human Resource Development in Pune.

    Following his MBA, Vikas joined Satvikk Speciality Foods Pvt. Ltd. as the Managing Director. Satvikk Speciality Foods is a health-focused food store that opened its first branch in Bangalore in December 2011. Vikas served as its Managing Director for almost five years. His experience at Satvikk finally helped him establish Happilo, the popular gourmet healthy food brand, in 2016.

    Nahar has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions, including:

    • Entrepreneur of the Year 2021 by the Indian Achievers Forum
    • ET Entrepreneur of the Year
    • SIAL Innovation Awards 2022
    • Times’ 40 Under 40

    Vikas D Nahar Success Story: From Happilo to Shark Tank India
    Discover the inspiring success story of Vikas D Nahar, the founder and CEO of Happilo, who earned a seat as a guest shark on Shark Tank India Season 2.
    StartupTalkyShalini Rath

    FAQs

    What is Shark Tank India?

    Shark Tank India is an Indian business reality television series based on the popular global format Shark Tank. It has budding entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of potential investors called ‘Sharks’ to secure investment deals.

    Who will be the sharks in Shark Tank India?

    Vineeta Singh, Peeyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Amit Jain, Deepinder Goyal, Varun Dua, Radhika Gupta, Ronnie Screwvala, Azhar Iquabal, Ritesh Agarwal, and Aman Gupta are the sharks in Shark Tank India. Season four of the show will feature two new sharks, Kunal Bahl and Viraj Bahl.

    When will Shark Tank premiere in India?

    Shark Tank Season Four premiered on Sony LIV on January 06, 2025.

  • What Does Royalty Mean In Shark Tank India

    In the ever-evolving landscape of startup funding, entrepreneurs are constantly seeking innovative ways to fuel their ventures’ growth while retaining control and ownership. One such avenue gaining traction, particularly on platforms like Shark Tank India, is royalty financing. This alternative funding model has been making waves for its ability to provide startups with vital capital without the need to sacrifice equity.

    In the third season of Shark Tank India, royalty financing has emerged as a prominent investment strategy embraced by savvy investors. The concept is simple yet impactful: instead of traditional equity investment, investors provide capital to startups in exchange for a percentage of the company’s future revenue.

    What is Royalty in Shark Tank?
    How Has Royalty Been Used?
    What Does Royalty Financing/ Revenue Financing Mean in the Startup Ecosystem?
    Why Are the Sharks Asking For Royalty in Shark Tank India Season 4?
    What Is the Role of Royalty Financing in Shark Tank India Season 4?
    Have Any Entrepreneurs Successfully Secured Royalty Financing in Shark Tank India?

    What Are the Benefits of Royalty Financing Observed in Shark Tank India Season 4?
    Investor’s Perspective: Predictable Returns
    What Are Some of the Challenges Startups Face When Navigating the Complexities of Royalty Financing Arrangements?
    How Does Royalty Financing Mitigate Risk for Investors Compared to Equity Financing?
    What Impact Does Royalty Financing Have on a Startup’s Long-Term Financial Performance and Growth Trajectory?
    How Do Startups Navigate the Negotiation Process With Investors When Considering Royalty Financing as a Funding Option?
    What Are the Long-Term Implications of Royalty Financing on a Startup’s Capital Structure and Ability to Attract Future Investment?

    What is Royalty in Shark Tank?

    Royalty is like a thank-you payment. If someone uses your idea or product, they give you a small amount of money in return. It’s like getting a little piece of the pie because it was your idea or creation.

    How Has Royalty Been Used?

    Royalty is like rent for special rights. If you create something like a song, book, or invention, and someone else wants to use it, they pay you a fee called a royalty. It’s like borrowing your idea or creation, and you get paid whenever they use it or make money from it. This can apply to things like music, books, patents, trademarks, mineral rights, and even things like letting a company use your photo in an advertisement.

    What Does Royalty Financing/ Revenue Financing Mean in the Startup Ecosystem?

    In startups, royalty is a method for raising funds from investors. Instead of relinquishing ownership, investors receive a portion of the startup’s future revenue. This allows startups to expand while maintaining control over their company.

    Shark Tank India 3 | Shark Aman Explains Royalty is Beneficial for Investor

    For example: ABC, a startup, needs funding. Instead of giving away ownership, they find an investor who provides USD 10 million. In return, the investor gets 5% of ABC’s future revenue until they’ve paid back the USD 10 million plus an agreed return. ABC retains ownership and control while accessing the capital it needs.

    How is Royalty Financing different from Equity Financing?

    Unlike traditional investment, where investors acquire ownership stakes, royalty financing allows startups to retain control. It provides the necessary funds without diluting ownership. Rather than surrendering a portion of the company, startups opt to distribute future profits. It’s a method of profit-sharing, not ownership transfer.

    Why Are the Sharks Asking For Royalty in Shark Tank India Season 4?

    In Shark Tank India Season 4, royalty financing has emerged as a notable investment strategy embraced by certain investors/sharks. In the newest season of Shark Tank India, the sharks are adding an extra layer of protection to their equity stakes by delving into royalty-based agreements tied to sales.

    In the preceding two seasons of the reality show, where startups vie for investments from seasoned entrepreneurs, deals predominantly revolved around equity and debt. 

    Now, the introduction of royalties serves as a fresh twist, enriching the deal-making experience and adding a savory dimension to the negotiation table.

    Royalty financing, also known as revenue-based financing, entails investors providing capital to a business in exchange for a percentage of the company’s future revenues. This alternative form of financing has been utilized by entrepreneurs to secure funding for their ventures without diluting their ownership stakes.

    Let’s delve into the details of royalty financing and its role in Shark Tank India Season 4.

    What Is the Role of Royalty Financing in Shark Tank India Season 4?

    Royalty financing has been demonstrated as an innovative investment approach endorsed by select investors. Numerous entrepreneurs have effectively secured royalty financing agreements. Significantly, it has empowered entrepreneurs to acquire essential capital while retaining control and ownership of their businesses.

    Have Any Entrepreneurs Successfully Secured Royalty Financing in Shark Tank India?

    Decode Age

    In a recent episode of Shark Tank India Season 4, the creators of Decode Age, a company focused on longevity, secured royalty financing from Anupam Mittal, CEO of Shaadi.com. Despite encountering doubt from other investors, Mittal proposed an investment of Rs 1 crore for 2.5% equity and a 1% share of revenue until he recoups 1.5% of his investment. This successful acquisition of royalty financing enabled Decode Age to obtain the necessary funding while granting Mittal a direct stake in their future revenues.

    Tiggle

    Anuva Kakkar, the founder of Tiggle, a brand specializing in ready-to-make chocolate mixes, successfully obtained funding from Sharks Peyush Bansal, CEO, and Co-Founder of Lenskart, and Amit Jain, CEO, and Co-Founder of CarDekho Group. She secured an investment of Rs 50 lakh in exchange for a 20% equity stake and a 2% royalty until Rs 1 crore is recovered.

    Nasher Miles

    Nasher Miles clinched a deal worth Rs 3 crore on Shark Tank India Season 4. boAt Co-Founder Aman Gupta, Shaadi.com CEO Anupam Mittal, Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd Executive Director Namita Thapar, OYO Rooms CEO Ritesh Agarwal, and Sugar Cosmetics CEO and Co-Founder Vineeta Singh collectively invested. In exchange, they received a 1.5% equity stake and a 1% royalty until the Rs 3 crore investment is recuperated.

    Refit

    Shark Tank India 3 Royalty Pitches

    Aman Gupta, Anupam Mittal, Amit Jain, Namita Thapar, Ritesh Agarwal, and Vineeta Singh collectively invested in Refit Global. Their funding offer amounted to Rs 2 crore, in exchange for a 1% equity stake and a 1% royalty until Rs 3 crore is recovered.

    Adil Qadri

    Adil Qadri’s perfume venture secured a Rs 1 crore investment from Vineeta Singh, entailing a 1% equity stake in the company. Additionally, Singh will receive a 1% royalty on the business’s revenue until her initial investment is fully recouped. Adil Qadri enthusiastically accepted this offer, marking a pivotal moment for his fragrance enterprise.

    What Are the Benefits of Royalty Financing Observed in Shark Tank India?

    Royalty financing provides businesses with an alternative funding method. It benefits entrepreneurs by enabling them to expand without sacrificing ownership, while investors directly profit from the success of the businesses they support. This approach is deemed effective for fostering business growth and is expected to remain popular in both the show and beyond.

    Entrepreneur’s Viewpoint: Balancing Growth and Equity

    Entrepreneurs value the flexibility and risk-sharing nature of royalty financing, allowing them to concentrate on growth without the burden of significant debt.

    Accelerated Returns

    Royalty financing leads to quicker profitability for startups compared to equity financing. Recent data suggests that startups using royalty financing typically achieve returns in about half the time of traditional equity financing, beneficial for early-stage ventures aiming for rapid growth.

    Retained Control

    Entrepreneurs prioritize retaining control over their ventures. With royalty financing, they maintain decision-making authority and strategic direction while accessing crucial capital. This makes royalty financing an attractive fundraising option without sacrificing autonomy.

    Who is the Richest Shark in Shark Tank India? | Net Worth of Entire Cast of Shark Tank India
    Shark Tank India season 4 is set to return with a panel of amazing judges. Check out the sharks’ net worth and the fees charged by them. Explore the entire cast of Shark Tank India judges here.
    StartupTalkyDamini Bhandary

    Investor’s Perspective: Predictable Returns

    Investors prioritize royalty financing for its reliable cash flow, offering a consistent income stream independent of fluctuations in the equity market.

    Risk Mitigation

    Royalty financing mitigates risk for investors, unlike equity financing where they face full losses. Studies show that startups relying on royalty financing experience lower rates of investor loss, enhancing financial stability in the startup ecosystem.

    Diverse Industry Application

    Royalty financing has proven especially beneficial for startups across diverse industries, notably in software-as-a-service (SaaS), where recurring revenue is prevalent, aligning well with the characteristics of this funding model.

    Strategic Utilization for Growth

    Startups have strategically leveraged royalty financing to expand their operations without incurring significant debt or sacrificing equity, showcasing its efficacy in driving growth and fostering innovation.

    What Are Some of the Challenges Startups Face When Navigating the Complexities of Royalty Financing Arrangements?

    Here are the complexities of royalty financing in startups:

    Structuring Royalty Terms: Determining the appropriate percentage of revenue to allocate for royalties can be challenging. Startups need to negotiate terms that balance their need for capital with their ability to sustainably repay royalties.

    Revenue Projections: Predicting future revenue streams accurately is crucial for both startups and investors. Startups must provide realistic revenue projections to attract investors, while investors need to assess the potential returns on their investments.

    Monitoring and Reporting: Startups must track and report their revenue accurately to calculate and distribute royalty payments to investors. This requires implementing robust financial systems and processes to ensure transparency and compliance.

    Impact on Cash Flow: Royalty payments can affect a startup’s cash flow, especially during periods of fluctuating revenue. Startups need to manage their finances effectively to ensure they can meet their royalty obligations while maintaining operational stability.

    Investor Due Diligence: Investors conducting due diligence on royalty financing opportunities must assess the startup’s revenue-generating capabilities, market potential, and financial health to evaluate the feasibility and profitability of the investment.

    Overall, while royalty financing can provide startups with an alternative funding option, navigating its complexities requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure mutual benefits for both startups and investors.

    The emergence of royalty financing in investment agreements has drawn criticism from investors and venture capitalists. They argue that this approach reflects poorly on the sharks, implying a lack of confidence in their investments and a desire for assured returns.

    What is Royalty on sales in business | Shark Tank edition

    “Midway through Season 3, a concerning trend has emerged on Shark Tank India – the abundance of “royalty-only” deals offered by the Sharks. While I understand the inherent risks of early-stage investing, it’s disheartening to see these seasoned entrepreneurs, who built their empires on calculated risks, seemingly prioritize guaranteed returns over the long-term potential of promising startups.

    Sure, royalty deals offer predictability and mitigate risk for the investor. But what about the spirit of entrepreneurship? Isn’t that about taking calculated risks, betting on potential, and sharing the journey with passionate founders? Royalty deals feel like a cop-out, a way to safeguard interests without putting any “skin in the game” alongside the founders who are pouring their hearts and souls into their ventures,” an article ‘Shark Tank India’s Royalty Frenzy: Where’s the Skin in the Game?’ on professional networking site LinkedIn said.

    We at StartupTalky tried to understand the subject with a set of questions asked to an entrepreneur Shubham Rawal, CEO and Co-Founder of StockPe. Rawal aims to spread financial understanding among the masses and runs a platform to impart stock education to newbies in a fun way.

    StockPe is the first platform to gamify stock education in India. The app allows learning from mistakes and refining strategies before one dives into the real stock market trade. Here are the questions that we posed to Shubham Rawal:

    How Does Royalty Financing Mitigate Risk for Investors Compared to Equity Financing?

    Mr. Rawal: In equity financing, there’s typically a period required for startups to secure additional capital and boost their valuation, enabling investors to exit. However, as over 95% of startups fail within 1-2 years due to challenges in establishing product-market fit or securing further funding, royalty financing offers an alternative. 

    Through royalties, investors stand a better chance of recouping their investment if sales increase, even if equity value remains stagnant. This substantially reduces risk by providing investors with a secondary means of retrieving their capital without relying solely on future funding rounds.

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    What Impact Does Royalty Financing Have on a Startup’s Long-Term Financial Performance and Growth Trajectory?

    Mr. Rawal: Royalties can impact a startup’s bottom line as profits or revenues are shared with investors, thereby reducing funds available for R&D or expansion. Additionally, high royalty rates may incentivize founders to prioritize short-term goals at the expense of long-term value creation. 

    However, alignment between investors and founders can accelerate growth, as greater revenue/profit growth enables investors to recoup their investments faster, creating a win-win scenario.

    How Do Startups Navigate the Negotiation Process With Investors When Considering Royalty Financing as a Funding Option?

    Mr. Rawal: Establishing leverage is crucial. Startups with strong sales records and promising growth prospects have greater bargaining power, enabling them to negotiate better terms. Conversely, desperation may lead to unfavorable royalty rates and terms. 

    Startups with limited sales records should present a compelling vision, emphasizing team experience and product potential during negotiations.

    What Are the Long-Term Implications of Royalty Financing on a Startup’s Capital Structure and Ability to Attract Future Investment?

    Mr. Rawal: There are several implications:

    Control: Royalty financing typically allows startups to retain control and decision-making authority, provided terms are negotiated carefully.

    Valuation: Royalty agreements with long-term or indefinite durations can complicate valuation processes, making it challenging for future investors to accurately assess the company’s worth.

    Future Financing: Royalty agreements may affect a startup’s ability to secure future capital, particularly if investors perceive them as burdensome on future cash flows.

    Cash Flow: Sharing a percentage of revenues can limit funds available for reinvestment or other business needs, impacting cash flow management.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, royalty financing presents both opportunities and challenges for startups seeking capital to fuel their growth. While this funding model offers flexibility and preserves ownership, it also comes with considerations regarding revenue sharing and long-term implications. 

    Startups must carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of royalty financing against their specific needs and growth trajectory.

    By leveraging this alternative funding avenue strategically and negotiating favorable terms, startups can capitalize on the advantages of royalty financing while mitigating potential risks. Ultimately, the impact of royalty financing on startups depends on various factors, including the alignment of investor and founder interests, the terms of the agreement, and the startup’s ability to manage cash flow effectively. 

    With prudent decision-making and a clear understanding of the implications, startups can harness royalty financing to drive innovation, expansion, and long-term success in today’s competitive landscape.

    FAQs

    What is Royalty in Shark Tank?

    Royalty in business is a payment made by one party to another for using their intellectual property, like patents or trademarks. It’s typically a percentage of revenue or profits generated from the licensed assets.

    Which entrepreneurs received royalty successfully in Shark Tank India?

    The entrepreneurs who received royalty successfully in Shark Tank India include Tiggle, Decode Age, Nasher Miles, Refit, and Adil Qadri.

    What does Royalty Financing mean in the startup ecosystem?

    In startups, royalty is a method for raising funds from investors. Instead of relinquishing ownership, investors receive a portion of the startup’s future revenue. This allows startups to expand while maintaining control over their company.

    What is the difference between Shark Tank royalty vs equity?

    In Shark Tank, royalty and equity are two different investment terms:

    • Equity: The investor gets ownership in the business by taking a percentage of the company in exchange for their investment.
    • Royalty: The investor gets a fixed percentage of revenue or sales until a specific amount is paid back, without taking ownership in the company.

    Equity offers long-term ownership, while royalty provides short-term returns based on sales.

  • How Valuation Is Calculated in Shark Tank India | Understanding Equity and Valuation for Entrepreneurs

    People in India have been busy looking for spice and reasons to gossip in reality shows. For years, the audience celebrated drama, comedy, fights, and sometimes a few melodies. Shark Tank changed it all. 

    Introducing Shark Tank to the Indian audience was a blessing, not just for the viewers but even for the producers. Businesses in India now have a better platform and chance to showcase their project and get the best investment. 

    However, pleasing the investors on Shark Tank India isn’t easy. It includes various challenges and a lot of many processes, such as business valuation and a few more. 

    Here, we will go through a detailed study of calculating the valuation of a business or a company in Shark Tank India. 

    Shark Tank India
    What to Know Before Learning About Calculating Company Valuation on Shark Tank India?

    How Valuation is Calculated in Shark Tank India

    Shark Tank India

    First things first, What is Shark Tank India? It is a reality show focused on businesses, where entrepreneurs present their projects, business ideas, products, etc. to the investors. If satisfied, the investors, also known as ‘Sharks’ help contestants on the show with a fund. 

    In return, these Sharks demand a particular stake in the business. This can vary from percentage of ownership and profit share. 

    This reality show even helps the entrepreneurs, persuading Sharks, to have access to the investor’s experience, suppliers as well as their network. 

    Do note that on this show, the Sharks are some of the country’s best and most successful businessmen and women.  

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    What to Know Before Learning About Calculating Company Valuation on Shark Tank India?

    Before we move on to the segment we all are here for, it is important to know a few terms that are usually referred to in the show.

    Valuation

    Valuation is the total value of the company after the funding round has been closed. It is based on the amount that has been raised against the equity shares. 

    Ask

    It is the offer that the entrepreneurs are asking in their pitch. These entrepreneurs usually ask for an amount of specific equity to value their company to a valuation after the fundraising round. 

    Offer or Counter Offer

    Offer or counter offer are basically the negotiations between Sharks (investors) and entrepreneurs. The stage comes after the entrepreneurs have pitched the Ask.  

    Counter Offer usually comes if the investor thinks that the valuation of the business should be less than what has been asked. Similarly, a counteroffer is also something where the entrepreneur believes that the valuation should be greater than the offer presented by the investor. 

    Equity Share

    It is the percentage of the business or company owned by the investor or shareholders. 

    How Valuation is Calculated in Shark Tank India

    There are four rounds of valuation used by entrepreneurs for their companies. These four methods include Revenue Multiple, Future Market Evaluation, Earnings Multiple, and Intangibles of Valuation.

    Let’s understand the process more elaborately. 

    Revenue Multiple

    In this method, if the company is valued at INR 10 lakhs in sales, the Sharks (investors) would ask about the annual sales from the previous year. If the entrepreneur states that amount to be INR 2,50,000, it means that the company would take around four years to reach the sales value that has been quoted by the entrepreneur. 

    In a scenario where the entrepreneur states the sale from the previous year to be INR 75,000, the investors will question the value of INR 10 lakhs.  

    On the other side, if the company has landed in a sales agreement with a client to sell its product worth INR 5 lakhs the valuation would become more appealing to the Sharks, looking at the sale forecast. 

    Earnings Multiple

    The companies or businesses coming on the reality show Shark Tank India are not publicly traded and hence they do not have the equity share or published earning multiples that can be studied by the investors. 

    However, the Sharks on the show can look at the company’s profit, and then compare it to the company’s valuation from sales revenue. This is how the Sharks can derive an earning multiple. 

    Future Market Evaluation

    The Future Market Evaluation can be calculated in the exact way the revenue and the earnings multiples are done. Here, the only drawback would be that the numbers are forecasts and their potential inaccuracy. 

    The Sharks would be asking the entrepreneur about their forecasts for sales and profits in the coming three years. These sharks will then compare the stated numbers by the entrepreneur to the other existing businesses in the same industry. 

    Intangibles of Valuation

    Well, it’s a reality show, which means it feels incomplete to not include some drama, right? So this method is solely present in Shark Tank India for excitement, some tears, and emotions. 

    Intangibles of Valuation is one aspect of the producers that has made the show this popular.

    Here, the Sharks don’t consider the number and monetary value of the company. They simply look at the intangible aspects such as the story of the entrepreneur, dedication, the urge to grow, social responsibility, and more. 

    Although the numbers are important while investing in a business, these aspects also play a major role in the exercise. Another point that is considered in this method is a brand name in the local area. This is important as the business might have set itself up as a brand synonymous with quality. 

    Similarly, the experience of the entrepreneur and access to retail outlets for selling products are some other points considered in the ‘Intangibles of Valuation’ method. 

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    Conclusion 

    Shark Tank India has introduced the Indian audience to brilliant entrepreneurs coming forth with extravagant ideas. Not just that, but now you know the many names in the business world who had struggled and eventually became successful to be on the panel of Sharks on this newly welcomed concept amongst other reality shows. 

    Valuation of a business is what Shark Tank is famous for. The methods and the rigorous challenges that are studied and considered might have even helped other entrepreneurs in the country.  

    Even if not in Shark Tank India, Indian entrepreneurs now might have an idea of how to prepare a perfect pitch and have their investors impressed in real life. 

    FAQs

    What steps can entrepreneurs take to prepare themselves for their appearance on Shark Tank India?

    To get ready for Shark Tank India, entrepreneurs should engage in meticulous market research, craft a compelling pitch deck, hone their presentation skills through practice, and foresee and address potential questions and objections from the sharks.

    What is valuation in Shark Tank India?

    Valuation is the total value of the company after the funding round has been closed. It is based on the amount that has been raised against the equity shares.

    Who are judges in Shark Tank India 3?

    The panel of season 3 includes – Varun Dua (Acko), Amit Jain (CarDekho), Deepinder Goyal (Zomato), Namita Thapar(Emcure Pharmaceuticals), Peyush Bansal (Lenskart), Ritesh Agarwal (OYO Rooms), Anupam Mittal (Shaadi.com – People Group), Aman Gupta (boAt), Azhar Iqubal, (Inshorts), Radhika Gupta, (Edelweiss Mutual Fund), Ronnie Screwvala (UpGrad), and Vineeta Singh (SUGAR Cosmetics). 

    How valuation is calculated in Shark Tank India?

    In Shark Tank India, valuation is calculated by dividing the investment asked by the equity offered. For example, if an entrepreneur asks for ₹1 crore for 10% equity, the valuation is ₹10 crore. Sharks may adjust the valuation based on revenue, market potential, scalability, and the founder’s vision.

    How to find valuation of a company?

    A company’s valuation is found using methods like:

    1. Revenue Multiples: Multiply annual revenue by an industry-specific factor.
    2. Profit Multiples: Multiply annual profit by a set multiple.
    3. Comparable Analysis: Compare with similar companies’ valuations.
    4. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF): Estimate future cash flows and discount them to present value.
    5. Startup Approach: Divide investment by equity offered.

    The method depends on the company type and stage.

  • Essential Business Lessons You Learn from Shark Tank India

    Shark Tank India is a Hindi-language reality television series on Sony Entertainment Television. The program is an Indian adaptation of the famous American show Shark Tank. The first season of Shark Tank India debuted in December 2021. It gained popularity quite rapidly and is currently among the most-watched television programs. 

    The show involves a panel of potential investors known as “Sharks,” who listen to entrepreneurs pitch, their ideas for a business or product they want to create. These self-made multimillionaires evaluate the company ideas and products put forward before deciding whether to invest their money in bringing them to market and providing guidance to each contestant.

    Shark Tank India is now a leading source of entrepreneurial insights, providing experienced and aspiring business enthusiasts with knowledge. In this article, we’ll look at the most important lessons any business can learn from the tank, providing a road map for success in today’s fast-paced corporate atmosphere.

    More Lessons Can Be Learned From Failure Than From Success
    Success Is Driven by Passion
    Presentation Is Key
    Seek Feedback Whenever Possible
    Safeguard Intellectual Property Rights
    Stay Informed of Technological Developments
    Watch the Numbers
    Analyze Your Business
    Differentiate Yourself From the Competition
    Be Creative but Sensible
    Be Honest

    More Lessons Can Be Learned From Failure Than From Success

    In the fast-paced and competitive world of entrepreneurship, fear of failure can hinder success. Failure is not a dead end but a stepping stone towards your ambitions. Only when you are rejected you take another look at your proposals and find any gaps or deficiencies.

    Rather than discouraging people, Shark Tank India depicts failure as a motivation. Entrepreneurs who have faced rejection often come back with new determination, armed with lessons learned from previous experiences. This resilience and willingness to learn from failure is the drive that pushes you toward tremendous success in the future.

    Success Is Driven by Passion

    A recurring ideology on Shark Tank India is the passion that entrepreneurs bring to their pitches. A passionate pitch attracts investors’ attention, establishing a relationship beyond the product or service delivered. Investors only invest when they trust in the individual over the concept itself. Being passionate means you are eager to go to any length to impress, encouraging you to think outside the box and create an exceptional product.  

    Passion connects people outside of the context of Shark Tank. Entrepreneurs who sincerely believe in their products or services are more inclined to form genuine relationships with their target audience. This enhances word-of-mouth marketing strategies and builds up customer loyalty towards the business.

    Presentation Is Key

    Presentation is an essential factor that should never be disregarded. Presenting a product in isolation may not be as effective as integrating it into a relatable and captivating story since products and services frequently exist within the framework of a bigger narrative. Entrepreneurs who succeed in the storytelling element create a stronger impression on investors. 

    A well-crafted presentation demonstrates that the entrepreneurs spent hours preparing and refining their content. When you only have a limited amount of time to make your pitch, being equipped with fundamental principles and concepts will help your project get traction and show investors that you value both their time and your own.

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    Seek Feedback Whenever Possible

    Entrepreneurs often feel a strong emotional attachment to their businesses, making it challenging to detect flaws or blind spots objectively. In any entrepreneurial journey, feedback is crucial. It helps you understand how others will perceive your product or service and what improvements you can make to better it. Identifying blind spots is vital for making informed decisions and addressing potential difficulties.

    On Shark Tank, these entrepreneurs benefit from the extensive knowledge of the “sharks.” If you hear similar feedback from multiple individuals, that is an essential topic for improvement. Whether it’s about pricing, marketing, or operations, the Sharks’ insights help businesses reassess the strategies they have in mind. Recurring feedback identifies opportunities.

    Safeguard Intellectual Property Rights

    Intellectual property refers to a wide range of intangible assets, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Depending on the type of business, every kind of protection has specific purposes and needs to be considered. These assets represent the different ideas, innovations, and creative works that set a company apart. Intellectual property rights protect you from possible legal issues, such as the possibility of rivals suing you for infringement, and they also create a framework for handling future disputes.

    If your product is distinctive, the first question investors will ask is if it is patented. Sharks will be hesitant to invest in your firm if your product is not patented, as unpatented products are more inclined to be copied.

    Stay Informed of Technological Developments

    In a world where innovation is king, businesses that adopt new technologies and welcome technological developments stay relevant and prosper. Customer expectations constantly change; every business plan must adapt to meet these needs. The key to making this work is to keep an innovation-learning mentality. 

    Set up Google Alerts for essential technologies, developments, and leading firms in your industry vertical. Automated alerts make it simple for you to stay updated on news events. Analyze and experiment with the potential applications of these developing technologies in your business. Instead of innovating only for the sake of innovating, correlate your innovations to actual business problems that correspond with the company’s goals. Shark Tank knowledge helps entrepreneurs understand how to pitch their business ideas effectively to secure funding and mentorship from sharks.

    Watch the Numbers

    Shark Tank India understands that financial literacy is essential for business success. Entrepreneurs should be familiar with their financial accounts, which include sales, expenses, profit margins, and cash flow. 

    Businesses that embrace data-driven decision-making can better evaluate risks, spot opportunities, and manage their companies. Regular analysis allows problems to be identified early while they are still minor and more accessible to fix. 

    Financial literacy goes hand in hand with risk management. Entrepreneurs are better equipped to apply risk-mitigation techniques if they can identify and measure financial threats. This proactive strategy safeguards the company and indicates a commitment to its continued success. They are also more capable of growing their business without endangering their steady income.

    Analyze Your Business

    Analyzing your business is essential for gaining comprehensive insight. By assessing internal aspects, entrepreneurs can discover their company’s strengths and weaknesses, resulting in a more resilient business. Conducting an analysis also enables you to capitalize on numerous business prospects. This could involve expanding your product range, entering a niche market, or altering your pricing strategy. Entrepreneurs who give a well-thought-out SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis display readiness and a thorough awareness of their business landscape. This can effortlessly increase investor confidence in the firm.

    Differentiate Yourself From the Competition

    A company’s ability to retain customers is crucial to its success. 

    In retention marketing, repeat rate is a key performance indicator that needs to be consistently upheld. Differentiation is a survival strategy in markets flooded with comparable products or services. Since USPs significantly impact a company’s performance in a crowded market, knowing and emphasizing them becomes strategically important. This brand distinctiveness contributes to brand recall. 

    Successful enterprises frequently address unmet market needs or complaints. Shark Tank India entrepreneurs are urged to find market gaps and position their products or services as answers to these issues. Differentiation encompasses more than just the product; it includes the customer experience.

    Be Creative but Sensible

    Entrepreneurs dip their paintbrush in the palette of invention, proposing cutting-edge concepts that fascinate the investors. However, each innovation must be built on market relevance and a deep understanding of consumer demands. This lesson is about having big ambitions but ensuring that your ideas are grounded in reality and address issues people face. Build small-scale prototypes of innovative ideas quickly, test critical assumptions, solicit customer input, and improve based on findings before deploying complete resources. Take risks, but be careful not to be reckless.

    Be Honest

    Honesty isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also smart for business. Entrepreneurs who are open and truthful earn trust and build good reputations. In a world where trust is rare, being honest is a strong way to create and keep good relationships.

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    Conclusion 

    In conclusion, Shark Tank India imparts priceless knowledge that opens doors for successful business ventures. These lessons, which range from the creative spark of invention to the strategic dance of financial literacy, serve as an in-depth blueprint for firms desiring survival and sustained growth in today’s dynamic corporate landscape. The combination of creativity, resilience, strategic thinking, and a dedication to continuous learning defines the core characteristics that any entrepreneur needs to have to overcome challenges and achieve success.

    FAQs

    What is Shark Tank India?

    Shark Tank India is a Hindi-language reality television series on Sony Entertainment Television. The show involves a panel of potential investors who listen to entrepreneurs pitch, their ideas for a business or product they want to create. These self-made multimillionaires evaluate the company ideas and products put forward before deciding whether to invest their money in bringing them to market and providing guidance to each contestant.

    Who is the richest Shark in Shark Tank India season 4?

    Ritesh Agarwal, founder and CEO of OYO is one of the richest sharks in Shark Tank India.

    Who will be the sharks in Shark Tank India?

    Vineeta Singh, Peeyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Amit Jain, and Aman Gupta are the sharks in Shark Tank India. Season three of the show will feature six new sharks including Ritesh Agarwal (OYO), Deepinder Goyal (Zomato), Azhar Iqubal (Inshots), Radhika Gupta (Edelweiss Asset Management Limited), Varun Dua (Acko) and Ronnie Screwvala (upGrad), Kunal Bahl (Snapdeal), and Viraj Bahl (Veeba).

  • From Pitches to Riches: Unveiling the Thrilling Journey of Shark Tank India and Its Visionary Judges

    Starting a new business is exciting and quite a piece of work as well, especially when you are setting up a completely new thing and following your passion by being a small entrepreneur. A business not only needs hard work, talent, desire, and persistence, but it also needs something that will help it keep going and that is an investment. Without it, a business cannot survive, in fact, for any kind of business, small or big, getting someone who will invest in them is far from easy.

    Imagine having a reality television show that helps budding entrepreneurs showcase their business model in front of some of the most successful business people from around the country. Surprising as well as amazing isn’t it? Well, now this thing is a reality. In this world where finding investors who are willing to provide funds for your dream is back-breaking, these types of shows exist and are making headlines.

    We have an American reality television show called Shark Tank that does the above job, and the exciting news is we are getting our very own Indian version of that show. In this article, we will talk about Shark Tank India, who the sharks (Shark Tank Judges) are, and whether it will be a success like its American counterpart. So, let’s dive in.

    “It’s not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.” – Robert Kiyosaki

    Listen to our host, Harini Rao, talking about Shark Tank India to one of its biggest fans in our podcast, Startup Tea.

    What is Shark Tank?
    About Shark Tank India
    Who are the Judges of Shark Tank India?
    How to Register for Shark Tank India?
    Has Shark Tank India Been Successful?
    Shows Like Shark Tank in India

    What is Shark Tank?

    The Shark Tank America first premiered on August 9, 2009, on ABC, although the history of the show goes much deeper than that. This show is actually an international franchise of Dragons’ Den, a show which originated in Japan in 2001. The panel of investors, or the judges, is actually the Sharks, who, after getting pitched by the contestants, decide whether to invest in their company or not.

    In the show, the Shark helped the pitchers by consulting with them if there is any flaw in their products, services, or business model once they heard the said entrepreneur.

    If the investor is ready to invest in the business, they shake hands and seal the deal. Sometimes, the entrepreneur gets rejected when all the sharks refuse to invest after they are not convinced of their ideas.

    The Shark Tank effect is so strong that after appearing in the show, entrepreneurs’ revenue increased 10 to 20 times.

    In the American version of the show, notable entrepreneurs like Barbara Corcoran, Daymond John, Kevin O’Leary, Mark Cuban, and Kevin Harrington are present at the show as the sharks who invest in the businesses. Shark Tank is a multiple Emmy Award-winning show and is considered the World’s biggest and number 1 business reality show.

    About Shark Tank India

    The globally famous show is going to make its debut on Indian television. Just like its American counterpart, Shark Tank India is a platform that provides opportunities to new entrepreneurs who will be able to entice the sharks with their ideas. The Sharks will invest in those businesses that they will find suitable. The Shark Tank India is produced by Studio NEXT and will be telecasted on Sony Entertainment Television Channel.

    In this Indian reality television show, budding entrepreneurs will visit and present their business models. They will try to convince the judges (Sharks) with their plan for the business and gain investment from the panel of investors present there for their wholesome ideas.

    After its successful run of two seasons, Shark Tank India has grown bigger and better for its third year. The show has now increased the number of sharks, each with their own expertise in different fields, from pharmaceuticals to hospitality. This will help entrepreneurs secure bigger investments from the sharks and attract them to invest in their businesses.

    Who are the Judges of Shark Tank India?

    Here are the names of Shark Tank India judges witheir companies and designations:

    Vineeta Singh

    Name Vineeta Singh
    Company Sugar Cosmetics
    Designation Co-Founder and CEO
    Vineeta Singh - Shark Tank Judges
    Vineeta Singh – Shark Tank India Judges

    Vineeta Singh is the Co-Founder and CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics. Vineeta Singh completed her electrical engineering degree from IIT Madras and later on, went on to pursue her business studies at IIM Ahmedabad. She co-founded Sugar Cosmetics in 2015 with Kaushik Mukherjee.

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    Peeyush Bansal

    Name Peeyush Bansal
    Company Lenskart
    Designation Founder and CEO
    Peeyush Bansal - Shark Tank Judges
    Peeyush Bansal – Shark Tank India Judges

    Peyush Bansal is the CEO and Founder of Lenskart. He did his undergraduate studies at McGill University and his post-graduate studies at the Indian IIM Bangalore. He founded Lenskart in 2010 with the help of Amit Chaudhary and Sumeet Kapahi.

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    Namita Thapar

    Name Namita Thapar
    Company Emcure Pharmaceuticals
    Designation Executive Director
    Namita Thapar - Shark Tank India Judges
    Namita Thapar – Shark Tank India Judges

    Namita Thapar is the executive director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals. She is a chartered accountant from ICAI and earned an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. With years of experience in the healthcare industry and a sharp mind, she is an invaluable asset to any startup seeking her guidance and investment.

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    Anupam Mittal

    Name Anupam Mittal
    Company Shaadi.com
    Designation Founder and CEO
    Anupam Mittal - Shark Tank India Judges
    Anupam Mittal – Shark Tank India Judges

    Anupam Mittal is a Co-Founder and CEO of Shaadi.com – People Group. He has done his MBA in Operations and Strategic Management from Boston College in the USA. He founded Shaadi.com in 1997. Mittal’s investing experience in over 250 startups has given him a sharp eye for spotting potential. He uses his entrepreneurial knowledge and financial resources to back promising ventures.

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    Aman Gupta

    Name Aman Gupta
    Company Boat
    Designation Co-Founder and CMO
    Aman Gupta - Shark Tank India Judges
    Aman Gupta – Shark Tank India Judges

    Aman Gupta is the Co-founder of boAt Lifestyle. He did his MBA from Kellogg School of Management. Aman Gupta founded BoAt in 2011 with Sameer Mehta. Before co-founding Boat, he was the director of sales at Harman International. He is a popular investor on Shark Tank and is known for backing startups with disruptive ideas and driven founders. His quick wit and infectious energy make him a fan favourite.

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    Amit Jain

    Name Amit Jain
    Company CarDekho
    Designation Co-Founder and CEO
    Amit Jain - Shark Tank India Judges
    Amit Jain – Shark Tank India Judges

    Amit Jain, an IIT Delhi graduate, is currently serving as one of the judges on Shark Tank India. He is also the CEO and co-founder of CarDekho Group, a leading auto-tech company in India that has expanded to Southeast Asia and acquired companies like Gaadi and ZigWheels under his leadership. Jain’s business acumen and investing experience make him a valuable asset to the show, providing invaluable insights as a Shark.

    Ritesh Agarwal

    Name Ritesh Agarwal
    Company OYO Rooms
    Designation Co-Founder and CEO
    Ritesh Agarwal - Shark Tank India Judges
    Ritesh Agarwal – Shark Tank India Judges

    Ritesh Agarwal, the young entrepreneur who is one of the newest judges on Shark Tank India, did not attend an Ivy League university. He dropped out of college at the age of 17 and went on to establish OYO Rooms, a hospitality giant, gradually and using digital technology. Today, as a self-made billionaire and CEO, he brings his expertise in hospitality and his drive to the judging table, eager to support India’s next generation of innovative entrepreneurs.

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    Ronnie Screwvala

    Name Ronnie Screwvala
    Company UpGrad, UTV Software Communications, RSVP Movies, Unilazer Ventures
    Designation Founder
    Ronnie Screwvala - Shark Tank India Judges
    Ronnie Screwvala – Shark Tank India Judges

    Ronnie Screwvala, a well-known media and entertainment entrepreneur, joined the panel of judges on Shark Tank India Season 3. He has a bachelor’s degree from Sydenham College, Mumbai, and co-founded UpGrad and Unilazer Ventures. Previously, he was the founder and CEO of UTV Group. With his extensive experience in the industry, Screwvala offers a unique perspective to entrepreneurs seeking investment in Shark Tank India.

    Deepinder Goyal

    Name Deepinder Goyal
    Company Zomato
    Designation Co-Founder and CEO
    Deepinder Goyal - Shark Tank India Judges
    Deepinder Goyal – Shark Tank India Judges

    Deepinder Goyal, the founder and CEO of Zomato, is one of the new additions to the panel of judges on Shark Tank India. He graduated from IIT Delhi and previously worked at Bain & Company. Goyal has successfully expanded Zomato’s operations to 24 countries and is known for his expertise in building and scaling startups. As a judge on Shark Tank India, he provides valuable advice to entrepreneurs based on his experience. Goyal invests in startups that utilize technology to disrupt traditional industries.

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    Azhar Iqubal

    Name Azhar Iqubal
    Company Inshorts
    Designation Co-Founder and CEO
    Azhar Iqubal - Shark Tank India Members
    Azhar Iqubal – Shark Tank India Judges

    Azhar Iqubal, the Founder & CEO of India’s highest-rated news app ‘Inshorts‘, was a new judge on Shark Tank India Season 3. He dropped out of IIT and is known for his expertise in building and scaling technology startups. Iqubal offers insightful advice to budding entrepreneurs on the show.

    Radhika Gupta

    Name Radhika Gupta
    Company Edelweiss Mutual Fund
    Designation Managing Director and CEO
    Radhika Gupta - Shark Tank India Judges
    Radhika Gupta – Shark Tank India Judges

    Radhika Gupta is the Managing Director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund. Under her leadership, Edelweiss MF has become one of India’s leading mutual fund houses with Assets Under Management (AUM) of over ₹1 lakh crore. As an investment expert, Gupta assesses startups on Shark Tank India, evaluating their business models, scalability, and valuation. She invests in startups that have the potential for high growth and returns.

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    Varun Dua

    Name Varun Dua
    Company Acko
    Designation Founder and CEO
    Varun Dua - Shark Tank India Members
    Varun Dua – Shark Tank India Judges

    Varun Dua is a judge on Shark Tank India. He completed his Master’s degree from MICA University. Dua is the Founder and CEO of Acko, an Indian insurtech startup. Under his leadership, Acko has emerged as one of the fastest-growing insurance companies in India. With his experience in building a successful startup, Dua provides valuable feedback to aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Kunal Bahl

    Name Kunal Bahl
    Company Snapdeal, Titan Capital
    Designation Co-Founder
    Kunal Bahl - Shark Tank India Members
    Kunal Bahl – Shark Tank India Judges

    Kunal Bahl is an Indian entrepreneur known for co-founding Snapdeal, a leading e-commerce platform, and Titan Capital, a prominent venture capital firm. Bahl has significantly impacted the Indian startup ecosystem by investing in companies like Ola and Mamaearth. He also holds key positions in organizations such as NASSCOM and the National Startup Advisory Council, showcasing his influence in India’s business landscape. Kunal Bahl is the newest shark on Shark Tank India season 4.

    Kunal has received various prestigious awards including Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Startup), Fortune Global 40 under 40, and The Economic Times Entrepreneur of the Year, among others.

    Viraj Bahl

    Name Viraj Bahl
    Company Veeba
    Designation Founder & Managing Director
    Viraj Bahl - Shark Tank India Judges
    Viraj Bahl – Shark Tank India Judges

    Viraj Bahl is the Founder and Managing Director of Veeba (VRB Consumer Products Pvt. Ltd.), a leading consumer food brand. He joined the panel of Sharks for Shark Tank India season 4. Viraj is known for his deep understanding of the food industry. He is excited to share his knowledge and mentor entrepreneurs with great, scalable ideas.

    His experience in building a successful business will help guide those looking for investments and advice. Viraj has studied Industrial Marine Engineering at Singapore Polytechnic.

    Vikas D Nahar

    Name Vikas D Nahar
    Company Happilo
    Designation Founder & CEO
    Vikas D Nahar - Shark Tank India Judges
    Vikas D Nahar – Shark Tank India Judges

    Vikas D Nahar is an Indian businessman who has made a name for himself in the healthy food industry. He is the founder of Happilo International, a company that specializes in offering high-quality dried fruits, nuts, seeds, dates, hampers, and more. Despite facing numerous rejections, Vikas persevered and successfully raised funds for Happilo, which has now become a well-known health food brand.

    Nahar was the guest shark for the grand finale of Shark Tank India Season 2. A special “digital-only” episode on SonyLiv called “Gateway to Shark Tank India 2” aired, wherein aspiring business owners got the chance to interact with Vikas and other sharks and pitch their ideas to them.

    Ashneer Grover and Ghazal Alagh

    Name Ashneer Grover and Ghazal Alagh
    Company BharatPe, Mamaearth
    Designation Co-Founder, Co-founder and Chief Mama
    Ashneer Grover and Ghazal Alagh - Ex Shark Tank India Judges
    Ashneer Grover and Ghazal Alagh – Ex Shark Tank India Judges

    Ashneer Grover was the Managing Director and Co-founder of BharatPe. He co-founded Bharatpe with Shashvat Nakrani in 2018 and announced his resignation on February 28, 2022. He has co-founded Third Unicorn, a venture for capital-efficient, lean, tech-driven Indian startups. Grover departed from Shark Tank after season one due to his blunt attitude and worsening relationship with BharatPe.

    Ghazal Alagh is the Co-Founder and Chief Mama of Mamaearth. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and has completed Intensive Courses in Modern Art, Design, and Applied Arts from the New York Academy of Arts. Ghazal, along with Varun Alagh, co-founded Mamaearth in 2016. She appeared in a few episodes of season one before discontinuing due to pregnancy and launching Mamaearth’s IPO.

    How to Register for Shark Tank India?

    How to Register For Shark Tank India

    To participate in the show, one has to register. Below are some of the steps one needs to follow during the registration:

    • First and foremost, one must download the SonyLiv app or Log on to www.sonyliv.com.
    • Then, you can find the registered banner of Shark Tank; click on that.
    • You have to enter your mobile number to get your OTP verified.
    • You have to fill out all the information in the form regarding your participation in the show.
    • You have to enter all the information about your business.
    • The mandatory fields need to be filled out properly with relevant information.
    • Submit your registration form.

    Current Scenario for Registration of Shark Tank India

    The registration for the third season of Shark Tank India commenced on June 20, 2024, and lasted until the end of the month. Participation in the show is free, but applicants must be physically and mentally fit. Proxy entries are not allowed. The third season began streaming on January 06, 2025 on Sony Liv.

    Has Shark Tank India Been Successful?

    Since its premiere in December 2021, Shark Tank India has proven to be a major hit. As the Indian adaptation of the popular American business reality show, it has broken viewership records for the Sony Entertainment Television channel. The premiere episode alone drew over 6 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched episodes in the channel’s history. By the end of the first week, the show’s viewership had surpassed 40 million views.

    The show’s success can also be seen in its impact on the businesses featured. In the first season alone, over 200 business pitched their ideas to the sharks. The startups and businesses saw a massive surge in demand and sales after appearing on the show. For example, after their pitch, Pandora Labs saw a growth of 500% in sales of their biodegradable sanitary pads. The tremendous reach of the show has allowed many small businesses in India to scale up their operations rapidly.

    The television show ‘Shark Tank India’ has established its brand value over the years. With each passing season, the show is getting bigger and better. The show’s third season has 12 renowned sharks who have massive portfolios. The show’s commendable longevity is admirable and has a positive impact on India’s startup culture, thus helping the country become a global leader.

    Shows Like Shark Tank in India

    Shows Like Shark Tank India
    Shows Like Shark Tank India
    • Shark Tank India is not going to be the first business reality show in the country. Prior to this, the country had MTV Dropout. It was aired in 2017, and the concept was almost the same as that of the Shark Tank. This show featured some dropouts who had to participate in many challenges that tested their physical and mental strength. This shows the judges if it is good to invest in their business or not. The show was not renewed after its first season.
    • “The Vault” was a 2016 Indian business reality TV show. Entrepreneurs pitched their ideas to a panel of investors known as “Vault Keepers”. They evaluated the plans and decided whether to invest in the ventures. Funded entrepreneurs received mentorship and resources to build their startups.

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    Conclusion

    When you start a business, find investors willing to invest in your business who will trust you and believe in you by providing funds to your business. Shows like Shark Tank have done it in many countries and have succeeded in India. Shark Tank is a show that may provide some great opportunities to new entrepreneurs, and who knows, this may lead to being the next big thing related to business in the country.

    FAQS

    Is there Shark Tank in India?

    Sony Entertainment Television started airing the new business reality show Shark Tank India on December 20, 2021.

    What is Shark Tank India?

    Shark Tank India is an Indian business reality television series based on the popular global format Shark Tank. It has budding entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of potential investors called ‘Sharks’ to secure investment deals.

    What is Shark Tank all about?

    Shark Tank is a reality show where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of successful investors (“sharks”) in hopes of securing funding and mentorship.

    Who will be the sharks in Shark Tank India?

    Vineeta Singh, Peeyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Anupam Mittal, Amit Jain, Deepinder Goyal, Varun Dua, Radhika Gupta, Ronnie Screwvala, Azhar Iquabal, Ritesh Agarwal, and Aman Gupta are the sharks in Shark Tank India. Season four of the show will feature two new sharks, Kunal Bahl and Viraj Bahl.

    When will Shark Tank premiere in India?

    Shark Tank Season Four premiered on Sony LIV on January 06, 2025.

    How Shark Tank India works?

    Shark Tank India features entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of investors (sharks) who decide whether to invest in exchange for equity.

    Who is Shark Tank host India?

    Ashish Solanki and Sahiba Bali are the new host of Shark Tank India Season 4.

    What is Shark Tank India concept?

    Shark Tank India is a reality show where entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of wealthy investors (sharks) for funding in exchange for equity or a stake in their companies.

    What is Shark Tank meaning?

    The show is the Indian version of the American series Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to a panel of investors, or “sharks,” who choose whether to invest in their companies.

  • The Impact and Role of Shark Tank India on the Startup Ecosystem: A Critical Analysis

    The Indian startup ecosystem has experienced significant growth, driven by a surge in entrepreneurial activities, increased access to venture capital, and a burgeoning culture of innovation. One of the factors contributing to this evolution is the emergence of television shows like Shark Tank India, an Indian adaptation of the popular American reality TV show Shark Tank which has become a prominent platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas, seek investments, and gain exposure to a wide audience.

    From Boardrooms to Drawing Rooms
    Change of Mindset
    Media Visibility
    Secure Investments
    ‘Amrit Kaal’ or Golden Period for Young Entrepreneurs
    Democratize Funding
    Startup Culture in India
    New Contacts and Networks
    Credibility of Shark Tank India
    Reasons for Rejection by Sharks
    Future Aspects

    From Boardrooms to Drawing Rooms

    Words like startups, stake dilution, seed funding, and ROIs have become common topics of day-to-day drawing room discussions after the Shark Tank India Season 1 was broadcasted in 2021. Commoners and the Indian middle class have become more interested in discussing the pros and cons of running a startup, coming up with new ideas, ownership, and entrepreneurship has become a dream come true.

    Change of Mindset

    Gone are the days when kids or collegians used to hesitate to discuss their minds about opening their enterprise. I can talk of myself, my 4-year-old son aims to sell (wholesale) ration like dal, rice, and millets after being in touch with a few uncles who have started their venture of selling fully organic grocery, food grains, pulses, and millets. I will not say that it is directly because of Shark Tank India, I would say it is a ripple effect. His uncles have taken inspiration from the varied episodes of the reality show running on prime time at 9 pm on Sony Liv.

    The mindset of middle-class income groups has slowly evolved and they are open to the idea of owning an enterprise or business of their own. Thanks to television, OTT platforms, rapidly evolving social media, and brand publicity of a platform called ‘SHARK TANK INDIA’ that has made its space in every drawing room.

    Media Visibility

    The show that invites applications from the whole country has helped people feel the media and its power. Shark Tank India episodes have significantly boosted the visibility of startups by showcasing their products, services, commodities, and supplies to a more than 140 crore audience within India. This exposure has immensely helped firms, SMEs, potential investors, customers, and partners.

    The show has not only opened a gateway for increased visibility, it has opened a vast arena for investments, mutual cooperation, and development for the entire business community throughout the world. One can get orders, deals, and new credit lines after an entrepreneur’s story has been aired on a national TV channel. Thanks to the National Democratic Alliance-led Indian government which has shown the dream of ‘Startup India’ to the whole world. The Narendra Modi-led government has helped streamline policies, rules, and regulations to invite more and more investments in the small-scale sector.

    Indian government held hands with entrepreneurs in the way of Startup India, Digital India, Make in India, and many more such programs. Today, India has 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world, and it is expected to witness year-on-year (YoY) growth of 12-15% consistent annual growth.

    Secure Investments

    The show promotes secure investments from successful and experienced investors so-called Sharks, who have dealt with the know-how of beginning a venture, taking required approvals, complying with the norms, and facing all the obstacles during their entrepreneurial journey. 

    Their insights, experiences, advice, and unbiased feedback can be very valuable in shaping the direction of upcoming enterprises.

    ‘Amrit Kaal’ or Golden Period for Young Entrepreneurs

    The stories of Sharks rather successful investors or businessmen/businesswomen cite a wonderful example for the decades to come and the upcoming generation who will be witnessing the ‘Amrit Kaal’ an auspicious period of 25 years between India’s 75th and 100th independence anniversaries. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has also signified the same and gave enough emphasis on funding for startups by announcing a corpus fund of Rs 1 lakh crore for the country’s tech-savvy youth in her Budget Speech on February 1.

    Democratize Funding

    The injection of funds is crucial for a startup’s growth and development and would become a huge deterrent if the demands of the business are not met. The show has given enough room for commoners to unhesitatingly pitch for funding on a social platform irrespective of the repercussions involved. The show has given the power to a hard-working entrepreneur to dream big, aim high, and be persistent in their effort to boost the company’s operations and focus on profitability regardless of enough funding at home. 

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    Startup Culture in India

    There have been 320 pitches across two seasons of the show. The show’s third season has just aired on January 22. Sharks have invested Rs 128 crore in 176 of 320 startups, of which one-third went to food and beverage companies and personal care products. The categories featured on the show tend to reflect emerging trends in the Indian space, such as eCommerce, food and beverage, health and wellness, and education.

    The reality show, inspired by its US counterpart, has helped budding businessmen to start a new narrative of being prudent, and gutsy enough to present their business ideas and seeking investment from a panel of seasoned investors or ‘sharks.’

    This may contribute to a more vibrant economy, startup ecosystem, and healthy work culture in India. If most of the young minds think for their venture wherever necessary, just imagine what would happen.

    With too much supply of ‘startups’, the competition would rise.

    Every household will have one entrepreneur just like India has one engineer in every household.

    Winning in the startup ecosystem would become tougher and tougher with time.
    And, people will start dropping off once the market finds an equilibrium.

    At the same time, it may be dangerous to have so many business houses, what would the private sector do? I am sure that everyone will have their niche, uniqueness, and brand supremacy that will help them thrive and sustain in the ever-evolving, technologically-equipped market. The presence of an innovator or an upcoming CEO in the show can serve as a market validation. Maybe just by being in the show, or securing investments on the Shark Tank platform, one can gain enough traction, confidence of customers, flashy deals, and attractive offerings, which the entrepreneur might have not even thought of.

    New Contacts and Networks

    The entrepreneurs featured or participants on Shark Tank India will gain access to media, different networks, and websites where they can generously promote their products and supplies. A network of successful entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors would be keen to join hands with the budding entrepreneurs. This network would not only provide ongoing support, guidance, and connections but also threads that will be tied beyond the show as well.

    Shark Tank India Season 4 has been launched on 6th January 2025.


    Credibility of Shark Tank India

    The success rate of any startup funding would depend on how true and reliable are the people (sharks) who are emerging as judges on the show. One may be very sweet and welcoming on television but may be very different in actual behavior and vice versa. What is shown on the screen may not be the entire truth of Shark Tank India. The stories, experiences, and personal behaviors matter a lot when it comes to running a successful show. A lot of participants have not talked about behind-the-scenes stories of Shark Tank India. It won’t be a surprise if tomorrow someone comes up and says that he/she was not paid a penny, which was promised on air. There have been stories in the media where participants have complained of not receiving the promised share from many sharks.

    In the latest Season of Shark Tank India, the sharks are exploring extra safeguards for their equity stakes by considering royalties based on sales.

    In the last two seasons of the reality show, where startups seek investments from experienced entrepreneurs, two kinds of deals were on the table—equity-based and debt-based. The latest add-on –royalty––is the fresh ingredient incorporated to enhance the overall flavor of the deal, making the culinary experience even more appetizing.

    One can say that these are prosperous times for sharks but challenging times for entrepreneurs. In the previous two seasons, no shark invested more than 10% of their net worth. One in five deals involved debt to keep the money secure. To avoid risks, the sharks largely remain restricted to their domain expertise.

    Season One Round-up
    Season One Round-up

    Reasons for Rejection by Sharks

    While the initial pitch on the show may create excitement and interest, the due diligence process that occurred afterward often revealed more about the companies, sometimes the sharks pulled back from their initial offers.

    There may be a case that sharks who are posing as judges, and their firms, may not be doing very well in terms of finances. Their own companies may be making losses, have overvaluation, or have not been earning enough profits. Still, their identity as a shark is undeterred, their business acumen, innovative ideas, intelligence, and vision can’t be questioned. 

    Future Aspects

    It’s essential to note that the impact of Shark Tank India on the startup ecosystem will depend on various factors, including the success stories that emerge from the show, the strategies employed by the entrepreneurs post-investment by sharks, market policies, and the overall economic and business climate within the country. 

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    FAQs

    What is Shark Tank India analysis?

    Shark Tank India is a business reality show where entrepreneurs pitch ideas to investors for funding. It boosts startup growth and inspires innovation but faces criticism for focusing on drama and high valuations. Despite this, many startups, have grown after the show.

    What is the role of Shark Tank in promoting startups?

    Shark Tank India helps startups by providing funding, mentorship, and visibility. It inspires innovation, connects entrepreneurs with investors, and boosts business growth through media exposure. Many startups have scaled quickly after appearing on the show.

    What is the impact of Shark Tank India?

    Shark Tank India has supported startups by offering funding, guidance, and exposure. It has sparked innovation, promoted business ideas, and motivated aspiring entrepreneurs. Several startups have expanded rapidly after featuring on the show, establishing it as an important platform for growth in India.

  • Shark Tank India’s Impact on Entrepreneurial Mindsets: Inspiring the Next Generation

    India is a country with a bit different thinking than what people believe and opt for in other parts of the world. The south Asiatic region has cultural differences that affect the youth and families, who try to ignore the risks, critical thinking, and odd decisions. 

    A simple question of career choice would define the perspective of the Indian parents, who strictly oppose any of such decisions. But thanks to Shark Tank India, which showed the youths of the country by the Arabian Sea, a path to discuss their pitches with their parents even before they do it with the actual investors.     

    The reality show has fostered startups in India and has even brought significant changes for budding entrepreneurs. The youth from middle-class families who were afraid to discuss their projects and business plans in front of their parents and family gatherings, now had an open sky to spread their wings of ideas. 

    Filled with eagerness, several about to be 9 to 5 employees have now dared to step into the world of business. In addition, Shark Tank has given them confidence and proof that they too can have a successful future.  

    The Indian business market has never seen such a drastic shift, as it is witnessing today. Let’s take a look at how Shark Tank India has had an impact on the entrepreneurial mindsets in the country. 

    Teaching Business Terms
    Example for Future Contestants
    Changing the Age-Old Idea and Promoting Mass Entrepreneurship
    Inspiration
    Boost to Products by Entrepreneurs
    Facts About Shark Tank India

    Teaching Business Terms

    Before Shark Tank was aired in 2021 on Sony TV, only a few knew business terms such as pitching, raising external investments for startups, and more. But having Shark Tank being televised on their idiot boxes, the audiences have been influenced and are now exposed to new terms. 

    These terms and topics included valuation, investment, gross margin, D2C, pitching, and more. Today not only those who have studied entrepreneurial works know about the meaning behind these terms but from a kid to an 80-year-old has become familiar with such terms, filling in the age gap. 

    Startup culture is now an attraction and has even changed the way people perceive this bravery by youths. 

    Number of Government Recognized Startups From 2016 to 2024
    Number of Government Recognized Startups From 2016 to 2024

    Example for Future Contestants

    The investors on the reality show Shark Tank, who are also regarded as the Sharks have stated that the first season was just a warm-up season as the entrepreneurs didn’t have a perfect pitch or presentation ready. 

    But with the end of the initial season, the future contestants will have a better picture in mind of how to please the Sharks on the show. They will have knowledge and understanding of how pitches work. The future Shark Tank entrepreneurs will even feel confident to go on national television while discussing their innovative ideas. 

    Changing the Age-Old Idea and Promoting Mass Entrepreneurship

    The Indian culture raises kids within a conservative environment. This atmosphere usually suggests they choose a secure career instead of pursuing entrepreneurship. Thanks to Shark Tank, for changing this age-old mindset. 

    Shark Tank India can promote mass entrepreneurship and boost the startup ecosystem in the country. India roughly has a population of 500 million between the ages of 15 and 44, the generation is capable of taking a risk and starting their own business. 

    As Shark Tank has reached the Indian middle-class families, there is a chance that the country could see a shift in its mentality towards startups in the coming years as well.

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    Inspiration

    Examples work a lot in India. Parents calling their son the next Sachin Tendulkar and daughters Kalpana Chawla have lasted through generations. 

    With Shark Tank India, now is the time to call the young ones to be the next Peyush Bansal and Vineeta Singh. This is already happening in India which means the country has seen a huge cultural shift. 

    Shark Tank introduced a panel of investors, Sharks who have experienced struggle and are now in a position to negotiate investment on the reality show. The sharks are people who have filled in a gap with their unique ideas. 

    These Sharks are the ones who came up with solutions for issues that the people around them weren’t even aware of. Moreover, the Sharks are admired by the people in India and hence are a great example for the future generation. 

    Boost to Products by Entrepreneurs

    Best of all! Shark Tank gave entrepreneurs in India a great platform to showcase their innovative ideas and portray them in front of the whole nation. But the opportunity just didn’t stop here, the products showcased on Shark Tank India have been in high demand since they aired. 

    Revenue for these businesses has increased exceptionally. The show has worked as a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs and startups, through Shark Tank’s medium they have increased their brand value and established a well-built position in the market. 

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    Facts About Shark Tank India

    • Shark Tank India in its first season received 62000+ applications out of which only 198 startups were shortlisted.
    • Out of the 198 startups that had pitched in front of Sharks, a mere 67 were able to raise capital through the show.   
    • When talking about the entrepreneurs, 87% were the founders who had no IIT/ IIM degrees. Besides this, 67% of the startups had a co-founder who was below the age of 25 years. 
    • Amongst the 198 startups, 60% were never funded before, while 30% of the startups belonged to Tier 2/3  cities or were from rural parts of the country. 
    • Similarly, the first season of Shark Tank had 27% of startups that had couples or families as co-founders, while 43% of the businesses showcased, had at least one woman co-founder. 

    Conclusion

    Shark Tank has inspired the people of India by introducing them to business terms. Now even a layman speaks the language of an entrepreneur. With that, Shark Tank also explained the benefits of investing in a business. 

    Even if not through a reality show, entrepreneurs today have found the courage to approach pretty successful investors and have their money-making cycle roll. 

    Shark Tank has altered the psychology of Indian society, bringing a positive change in the entrepreneurial landscape. 

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    FAQs

    What is the impact of Shark Tank India on teens/young generation?

    Shark Tank India inspires teens and young people to think creatively, start businesses, and learn about entrepreneurship, pitching, and investments.

    Does Shark Tank encourage entrepreneurship?

    Yes, Shark Tank encourages entrepreneurship by showcasing startup ideas, teaching business strategies, and motivating people to turn their ideas into businesses.

    What is the role of Shark Tank in promoting startups?

    Shark Tank India promotes startups by providing a platform for entrepreneurs to pitch ideas, secure funding, gain mentorship, and receive exposure, helping them grow their businesses.

  • Success Story of Vineeta Singh: Founder of Sugar Cosmetics

    Prior to the development of the D2C and e-commerce section of India, the Indian market was hugely dominated by the giants, leaving less or no space for the newbies. In the last decade, work done by startups, namely, WOW Skin, Plum, Nykaa, and Sugar, and their reach, cannot be overlooked. Today these options are at the top of the go-to list of Indian customers. The service provided by them, and the quality of the products are nowhere less than those of the cosmetic giants.

    One of the top premium cosmetic brands in India, Sugar Cosmetics has a cult following among millennials. Thanks to its clutter-breaking attitude, distinctive low-poly attractive packaging, and bestsellers, Sugar is the cosmetics brand of choice for strong, independent women who reject any boundaries or parameters they are being fit into. With a cruelty-free collection that is strong in design and high in quality, the company is committed to creating products that are a perfect fit for every Indian skin tone throughout the seasons and throughout the calendar, which is a rare sight.

    Vineeta, the co-founder of Sugar and a strong independent woman who’s an inspiration to many little girls out there, established Sugar by making it accessible, inexpensive, and ideal for Indian skin. The company’s products and excellent marketing methods have elevated the brand to the top of the list of Indian women’s preferences.

    Read this article further, to learn about the life story of Vineeta Singh starting from her early life, her education, her entrepreneurial journey, her struggles her current state, and much more.

    Vineeta Singh Biography

    Name Vineeta Singh
    YOB 1984
    Nationality Indian
    Spouse Kaushik Mukherjee
    Home Town Delhi, India
    Occupation Entrepreneur
    Educational Qualification Post Graduate
    Alma Mater IIT Madras(BTech), IIM Ahmedabad(MBA)

    Vineeta Singh – Early Life, and Education
    Vineeta Singh – Family
    Vineeta Singh – Career
    Vineeta Singh – Sugar Cosmetics
    Vineeta Singh – Shark Tank India
    Vineeta Singh – Personal Life
    Vineeta Singh – Investments
    Vineeta – Awards and Recognitions

    Vineeta Singh – Early Life, and Education

    Vinita Singh was born in Delhi, India, in 1991. She finished her schooling at the Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram, in Delhi.

    Vineeta received her undergraduate degree in the course of Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 2005. Later, she got herself into IIM Ahmedabad to pursue her MBA in 2007.

    Vineeta Singh – Family

    Tej Singh, Vineeta Singh’s father, was a scientist at the “All India Institute of Medical Sciences.” Her father is highly passionate about his work. There is no doubt that her parents had a significant impact on her and helped shape who she is today. Her post-graduate MBA program introduced her to Kaushik Mukherjee, whom she married shortly after graduating in 2011.

    Sugar Founder - Vineeta and Kaushik
    Founders of Sugar – Vineeta and Kaushik

    Kaushik, Sugar Cosmetics’ President, and Chief Operating Officer is both her business and life partner. The couple is known as the “Ironman couple” because they completed the world’s longest race. The couple has two sons, Vikrant and Ranveer.

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    SUGAR Cosmetics is a cruelty-free, performance-driven, and stylish makeup brand. Here’s the Company Profile, Founders, Funding, Business model, Revenue, information about Sugar Cosmetics and more.
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    Vineeta Singh – Career

    Vineeta Singh is the co-founder and CEO of SUGAR and Fab Bag. FabBags is a grooming subscription service that was established in 2012. Nykaa Cosmetics, Kay by Katrina, and Starlust are the other companies that compete in the cosmetics market along with Sugar Cosmetics.

    Her first summer job at Deutsche Bank was as a student in 2006. Vineeta Singh’s extensive experience in the banking and financial industry has earned her the position of Director for Quetzal Verify Private Limited. Her tenure in that position, however, was for five years.

    Vineeta Singh founded Sugar after failing to launch two previous firms and turning down a job offer of “one crore” from a multinational investment company. That’s correct. Instead of creating something for others, she desired to do something for herself. Singh founded her third startup Sugar, alongside her husband, Kaushik Mukherjee.

    Back then, the behemoths, Lakmé, L’Oréal, and MAC Cosmetics controlled the Indian cosmetics industry. Then, in 2012, SUGAR was created, defeating a slew of national and global competitors to become India’s fastest-growing cosmetics brand. Sugar has become India’s fastest-growing cosmetics brand in only five years. The company has over 2500 branded locations in over 130 cities and generates more than 100 crores in sales.

    A cosmetic brand established by the artisans of German, Italian, Indian, American, and Korean cities, Sugar Cosmetics, is presently winning across the spectrum. Revenues increased by a huge margin from INR 57 crores in 2020 to INR 104 crores in FY21, with a 15% rise in sales globally.

    Sugar Cosmetics Innovative Business Model Explained | Revenue Model | USP | SWOT Analysis |
    Discover the Sugar Cosmetics business model and learn how it blends digital-first strategies, offline expansion, and bold branding to dominate the beauty industry.
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    Vineeta Singh – Sugar Cosmetics

    Sugar Cosmetics is a cult favorite among millennials and one of India’s fastest-growing premium cosmetic firms. Sugar, with its clutter-breaking attitude, distinctive minimal packaging, and distinctly good products, is the cosmetics of choice for courageous independent women who refuse to be stereotyped by stereotypes. Bestsellers in the Lips, Eyes, Face, Nails, and Skin categories are sent all over the world from the brand’s cutting-edge facilities in Germany, Italy, India, the United States, and Korea.

    “My savings were diminishing; I’d hardly ever go out because I was on a strict budget. But I pushed on. I even started a venture, but it didn’t work as planned. After a year, I felt brave enough to give entrepreneurship another shot with Fab Bag, a beauty subscription company. But after research, I realized the need for quality cosmetics for Indian women–that’s how Sugar Cosmetics was born.”

    Products of Sugar
    Products of Sugar

    With a cruelty-free range that is excellent in appearance and strong in functionality, the brand is dedicated to developing products that are a wonderful fit for every Indian skin tone throughout the seasons and across the calendar. Sugar Cosmetics is rapidly extending its powerful presence, to reach the doorsteps of every cosmetics consumer in the country by 2021, supported by the trust of marquee investors and the enthusiasm of millions of beauty devotees.

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    Cosmetic brands in India have seen great growth over the past years. Look at the top cosmetics brand in India which provides the best beauty products.
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    Vineeta Singh – Shark Tank India

    Shark Tank India introduced us to a plethora of individuals who are responsible for the success of major companies. Vineeta Singh, the co-founder of Women’s Favorite Sugar Cosmetics, is one such name. This woman has set a terrific example for aspiring female entrepreneurs. She has not only earned success for herself, but she also serves as an inspiration to many aspiring enterprise founders.

    She invested in several of the firms featured on the show. Some of them are as below:

    1. Skippi Ice Popsicles
    2. CosIQ
    3. BluePine Foods
    4. Booz
    5. NOCD
    6. Heart Up My Sleeves
    7. Sunfox Technologies
    8. The Quirky Naari
    9. Humpy A2 Milk & Organic Farms
    10. Wakao
    11. Kabaddi Adda
    12. Jain Shikanji Masala
    13. Nomad Food Project
    14. Get-A-Whey

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    Vineeta Singh – Personal Life

    Vineeta Singh, Co-Founder, and CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics was an outgoing child. At 23, she learned how passionate she had been about fitness while studying at IIM-Ahmedabad. She had never raced more than a kilometer before until she was challenged to compete in the Mumbai Full Marathon, and she ended up signing up for the 42-kilometer marathon. She gained so much from the experience that the CEO became obsessed with the concept of becoming a lifetime runner.

    Vineeta’s running resume includes 20 marathons, ultramarathons, and roughly a dozen half-marathons. She has also participated in various triathlons, the most notable of which being the renowned Ironman, which she finished in Austria in 2017. The Ironman, popularised in India by Milind Soman, consists of a 3.8-kilometer swim, a 180-kilometer bicycle ride, and a 42-kilometer full marathon. This is not something you decide to do one morning. But that’s not all; she also ran the 89-kilometer Comrades Ultramarathon from 2012 to 2014.

    Even though her life is slowly returning to normal following quarantine, she still makes it a point to devote an hour each day to her training program. She works out in the morning to get the day started well and to get in a workout before the stressful hours catch up with her. Vineeta gets the ‘me-time’ she needs to relieve mental tension while also enhancing productivity and optimism throughout the day with an hour of exercise.

    Vineeta is a huge supporter of any exercise or sport that takes her outside, and in addition to jogging, she swims and bikes whenever she has the chance. Another activity she enjoys is badminton; she competed in several tournaments during her undergrad and B-school years.

    “When it comes to nutrition, I never was one to follow a strict diet or restrict myself, when it comes to nutrition. I’m not a fan of diet fads so I stick to everyday home food at regular intervals. I make it a point to always stay hydrated and do simple portion control while eating,” says Vineeta.

    In April 2024, Vineeta Singh denied false rumors about her death and arrest. She shared her frustration on X, showing a fake news screenshot. Singh reported it to Meta and filed a complaint with Mumbai Cyber Police. She said the hardest part was people calling her mother in panic. She also mentioned facing paid PR spreading these false stories.

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    Vineeta Singh – Investments

    Below are the details of the investments made by Vineeta Singh. Her most recent investment was Seed Round-P-Tal, having raised $120k on April 3, 2024.

    Date Organization Name Round Amount
    April 3, 2024 P-Tal Seed $120K
    March 23, 2024 Farm Didi Angel $12K
    March 19, 2024 Nema AI Angel $48.2K
    May 10, 2022 Josh Talks Series A ₹270M
    Jan 31, 2022 Humpy Farms Angel Round ₹10M
    Dec 28, 2021 Skippi Ice Pops Seed Round ₹10M
    Dec 23, 2021 CosIQ Seed Round ₹5M

    Vineeta – Awards and Recognitions

    • Vineeta was an academic gold medalist between 1993 and 2001. She is also an excellent athlete.
    • She won two gold medals and two silver medals in the IIT Madras Badminton Tournament.
    • She received the Dulari Mattu Award for the finest female all-rounder at IIM Ahmedabad in 2007.
    • In 2012 and 2013, she received back-to-back medals from the Comrades Marathon Association for completing both the Ups and Downs (89 km) and Comrades Back-to-Back (89 km), South Africa’s highest Ultra-Marathon.
    • In 2020, she was named one of India’s 40 Under Forty business leaders by the Economic Times.
    • According to Forbes India, she was one of India’s most powerful women in 2021.
    • Amitabh Bachchan’s most successful show, Kaun Banega Crore Pati (KBC), featured her as an expert, in the context of one of the questions.
    • Furthermore, for more than a decade now, Vineeta has been manufacturing best-selling cosmetic products, making millions of dollars in sales each year.

    FAQs

    Who is Vineeta Singh?

    Vineeta Singh is the co-founder and CEO of Sugar Cosmetics and a judge on Shark Tank India. She is a successful entrepreneur and business leader.

    What is Vineeta Singh’s net worth?

    The net worth of Vineeta Singh is about INR 300 crore as of 2024.

    How many companies did Vineeta Singh Co-found?

    Vineeta Singh is a co-founder of 2 companies; Sugar Cosmetics & Fab Bags.

    Is Sugar Cosmetics a Unicorn?

    No, Sugar Costemics is not a Unicorn yet.

    What is Vineeta Singh education?

    Vineeta received her undergraduate degree in the course of Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 2005. Later, she got herself into IIM Ahmedabad to pursue her MBA in 2007.

    What is Vineeta Singh age?

    Vineeta Singh was born in 1983. She is approximately 43 years old.

    What is Sugar Cosmetics net worth?

    Sugar Cosmetics is valued at INR 4100 crore as of 2024.

  • Azhar Iqubal’s Inspiring Journey from IIT Dropout to Shark Tank India Judge

    For the Millennials and Gen Z, it has always been tedious and boring to sit with the elders at home and watch the monotonous news channels. We have always searched for a way to escape that situation. The biggest constraint was the lack of time and the content’s length and mass. But then came the savior- Inshorts.

    Inshorts, with its brevity and simplicity, brought about a massive change in how the youth consume news.

    We live in a world where we are flooded with information all around us. Also, from Instagram reels to YouTube shorts, only short forms of entertainment have gained popularity. That being the scenario, Azhar Iqubal, had foreseen this almost a decade ago and co-founded Inshorts, an app that delivers the latest news in less than 60 words.

    Let’s look at the story of the co-founder and chairman of Inshorts, Azhar Iqubal. We will discuss his net worth, education, personal life, investments, challenges, and more.

    Azhar Iqubal Biography

    Name Azhar Iqubal
    Born 7th October 1992
    Birthplace Bihar, India
    Nationality Indian
    Education Mathematics and Computer Science, IIT Delhi (Dropped out)
    Position Co-founder and Chairman, Inshorts
    Net worth INR 500 crore (March 2024)

    Azhar Iqubal – Early Life
    Azhar Iqubal – Career
    Azhar Iqubal – Personal Life
    Azhar Iqubal – Inshorts
    Azhar Iqubal – Shark Tank India
    Azhar Iqubal – Journey So Far
    Azhar Iqubal – Challenges Faced
    Azhar Iqubal – Investments
    Azhar Iqubal – Awards and Recognitions

    Azhar Iqubal- Early Life

    Born and raised in India, Azhar’s early life, marked by curiosity and a passion for information, laid the foundation for his journey. He joined IIT Delhi to pursue his bachelor’s in Mathematics and computer science.

    As he navigated through college, his hunger for knowledge and innate entrepreneurial spirit began to blossom. Soon, he dropped out of IIT to co-found what is today a multi-million dollar business.

    Azhar Iqubal – Career

    In 2013, Azhar Iqubal, his IIT Delhi classmate Anunay Pandey, and IIT Kharagpur student Deepit Purkayastha established the News in Shorts Facebook page.

    It instantly attracted users’ interest because it included summaries of news items together with links to the actual stories.

    They were accepted into the Times Internet-backed TLabs startup accelerator some months later.

    Azhar Iqubal’s journey from those formative years to the inception of Inshorts is a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and a vision to make information accessible to all.

    Following the success of Inshorts, he also established a Public App in 2019 with the goal of bringing together Indian local communities on a digital platform.

    Azhar Iqubal, who served Inshorts as CEO for 11 years stepped down from his position in April 2024 after 11 years. He is now the company’s new chairman, while fellow co-founder Deepit Purkayastha took over as the new CEO.

    “After leading the company for 11 years as chief executive, I have decided to step into the role of chairman of the company. My co-founder, Deepit, who has been an instrumental part of our journey from the beginning, will take charge as the chief executive of the company and I am excited to see him lead our company to greater heights,” Azhar Iqubal said in a statement.

    Success Story and Business Model of Inshorts

    Azhar Iqubal – Personal Life

    Azhar Iqubal hails from the state of Bihar and currently lives in India. He is fond of driving and traveling. He also loves to go on road trips with his friends.

    Being one of the most successful young entrepreneurs in India, he is followed by thousands of his young fans.

    Azhar Iqubal – Inshorts

    Inshorts Landing Page
    Inshorts Landing Page

    Inshorts provides daily 60-word summaries of news updates to its customers at just a click away. While, according to Inshorts owners, in December 2014, there were just 100,000 users, currently the count has risen to nearly three million.

    Also, over the years, the company has created numerous creative advertising concepts that have assisted them in bringing on more than 250 brands. Working with household names like Vodafone, OnePlus, Mercedes, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Myntra, and others helped Inshorts become operationally viable within five years after its inception.

    Public App is a platform that allows users to engage with their community through verified updates from media organizations, lawmakers, authorities, and content producers. The Public App gained more than 50 million active members in the first year after its inception, making it the largest location-based social network in India.

    Inshorts Startup Story – Business Model, Revenue Model, Competitors and more
    Inshorts is an mobile news application that offers news stories summarised in 60 words or less. Lets look at its business model, revenue model and more.
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    Azhar Iqubal – Shark Tank India

    Shark Tank India Judges- Peyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Azhar Iqubal, Amit Jain, Anupam Mittal
    Shark Tank India Judges – Peyush Bansal, Namita Thapar, Azhar Iqubal, Amit Jain, Anupam Mittal

    In the latest, Shark Tank India, a business reality television series, has announced that Azhar Iqubal would be one of the judges along with the other latest entrants, OYO’s CEO Ritesh Agarwal and Zomato’s CEO Deepinder Goyal, in the third season of the show.

    As the news was announced, it created a wave of excitement and inspiration among the young entrepreneurs.

    Azhar Iqubal wrote on his social media,

    “On Shark Tank India Season 3, I want to tell the youth of India that where you come from and whether you have a degree or not does not matter; what matters is whether you have hunger, discipline, and focus. And if you have it in you, I am here to support you in fulfilling your entrepreneurial dream.”

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    Azhar Iqubal – Journey So Far

    From being the co-founder of Inshorts, which has evolved to be India’s top-rated English news app and has maintained that ranking on Android since January 2014, to being a judge on Shart Tank India, Iqubal’s journey has stood as an example of sheer dedication and hard work.

    To quote Azhar Iqubal about his journey,

    “Dreaming big or later achieving is not that much difficult, but convincing people around you certainly is. I was not taken seriously or, should I say was mocked for my zeal. Once, when I was born in the village Sadogoda of Kochadhaman, Kishanganj, I wanted to get through IIT, which I achieved eventually as IITD. Later, people around ‘cautioned’ me the same way when I decided to drop out of IITD in 2012. Not listening to their concerns, which they raised of sincerity and affection to me, made me founding a company of 150 Crore Investment. Believing in you is the first step to achieving a goal, small or big, though I have yet to set my goals.”

    Azhar Iqubal – Challenges Faced

    During the pandemic, though, just like every other business, Inshorts faced a lot of challenges; the zeal and adaptability of Azhar and his team not only kept the business running but made Inshorts one of the top three applications that were suggested by the Play Store for reliable updates on COVID-19.

    Also, the Public App experienced significant growth as users began to rely on it for all authenticated local updates in real-time, including information about nearby grocery stores, hospitals, and quarantine policies.

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    Azhar Iqubal – Investments

    Azhar Iqubal invested in QuickReply.ai in April 2023. Below are the details of this investment:

    Announced Date Organization Name Lead Investor Funding Round Money Raised
    April 27, 2023 QuickReply.ai – Seed Round – QuickReply.ai $1.14 Million

    Azhar Iqubal – Awards and Recognitions

    Here are the prominent awards and recognitions of Azhar Iqubal:

    • Business World 40 under 40
    • Fortune India 40 under 40
    • Business World Young Entrepreneur Award
    • The Most Enterprising Brands
    • Leaders of Asia Award
    • Forbes India 30 under 30
    • Forbes Asia 30 under 30

    FAQs

    Who is Azhar Iqubal?

    Azhar Iqubal is an Indian entrepreneur and Co-founder and Chairman of Inshorts. He is one of the sharks in the Shark Tank India.

    Where is the headquarters of Inshorts?

    Inshorts was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

    Who are Inshorts founders?

    The co-founders of Inshorts are Azhar Iqubal, Anunay Pandey, and Deepit Purkayastha.

    Who is Inshorts CEO?

    Deepit Purkayastha is the CEO of Inshorts. He is also one of the co-founders with Azhar Iqubal and Anunay Pandey.

    What is Azhar Iqubal education?

    Azhar Iqubal studied at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he pursued a degree in Mathematics and Computing. However, he dropped out before completing his degree to focus on building his startup, Inshorts.

    What is Azhar Iqubal birthplace?

    Azhar Iqubal was born in Bihar on 7th October 1992. His hometown is Kishanganj. The Inshorts owner age is 32.

    What is Public App?

    Public App is an Indian social network app for local news, with updates on nearby events, business, employment opportunities, and classified ads, among other things.

    What is Azhar Iqubal business?

    Azhar Iqubal is the co-founder of Inshorts, a popular news aggregator platform that delivers short news summaries. It was launched in 2013 to provide quick, easy-to-read news updates.

    He is also the co-founder of Public, a location-based social network app launched in 2019. Public allows users to share updates, local news, and events within their communities.

  • Varun Dua: The Visionary Behind India’s Insurtech Revolution

    India’s financial technology industry has seen an explosive surge in financing over the last several years, with assets totaling more than $8 billion allegedly invested across various stages. India has the world’s highest FinTech rate of adoption. India has 10,200 registered fintech startups in 2024 and is one of the fastest-growing FinTech industries in the world. The Indian FinTech business is expected to be worth $150 billion by 2025.

    While Payments and Alternative Finance accounted for more than 90% of investment flows in 2015, there has been a major change toward a more fair distribution of investment across sectors since then, with InsurTechs, WealthTechs, and other areas garnering considerable attention. In India, around 17 Fintechs have been designated as ‘Unicorns.’

    Insurance companies throughout the world, particularly in India, have a lot of opportunities to use technology to optimize distribution costs and provide algorithms for personalized pricing. A believer of the same, Varun Dua, in the digital era, is commonly acclaimed for redesigning India’s insurance narrative.

    “If you really want to change the plumbing, you will have to start manufacturing it,” is what he says. Varun Dua, the founder and CEO of Acko, is a renowned serial fintech entrepreneur. He co-founded and served as the CEO of one of India’s top online insurance aggregators, Coverfox, before launching Acko in 2016. Investors invested $30 million into Acko even before the formal debut, based on Varun’s proven records.

    Varun Dua Biography

    Name Varun Dua
    Birth 1981
    Nationality Indian
    Occupation Co-founder and CEO of Acko, Co-founder of Coverfox & Glitterbug Technologies
    Net worth INR 107 crore (2024)

    Varun Dua – Early Life and Education
    Varun Dua – Family
    Varun Dua – Career
    Varun Dua – Acko
    Varun Dua – Investments
    Varun Dua – Challenges Faced
    Varun Dua – Shark Tank India

    Varun Dua – Early Life and Education

    Acko’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Varun Dua, has over 10+ years of experience in the insurance market, with a wide spectrum of services and responsibilities. He was in charge of marketing analytics for direct business acquisition and technology for effective customer service. Coverfox Insurance Broking Pvt. Ltd. was his company, and he was its CEO and Co-founder.

    He completed his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Mumbai. Later, he pursued a master’s at a prominent business school in India called MICA. Known for his extensive experience in product management and business development, Varun Dua’s educational background reflects a solid foundation for his professional journey.

    Varun Dua – Family

    Varun Dua’s father’s name is Chander Mohan Dua. His mother is Rashmi Dua and he is married to Sapna Rana.

    Varun Dua – Career

    Varun Dua, the founder of Coverfox, an online insurance aggregation platform, followed the road less traveled in a startup climate where the mantra is “act rapidly and damage things.”

    Varun worked as a Trainee at Leo Burnett Advertising for less than a year after graduating. He subsequently went on to work for Tata AIG Life Insurance and Franklin Templeton Investments as a marketing manager. Varun launched two prior companies before founding Coverfox in 2013, Glitterbug Technologies and Enser Communications.

    One of the key motivations for founding Acko, according to Dua, was the awareness that there had been an open chance to use the World Wide Web to bring interesting ways of selling insurance products.

    Despite the fact that Dua had just come into contact with insurance by chance, he was rapidly pulled into its world and learned everything there was to know about the market’s intricate inner workings. It wasn’t long before he had the desire to start his own business.

    In his own words, “I started off not really clear about what I wanted to do, but I definitely didn’t want to do what I was doing.”

    The firm takes a D2C strategy, using its web platform to market traditional insurance services. This makes underwriting and risk selection substantially easier. Acko, his company, also offers unique and bite-sized insurance solutions, including rider insurance, ticket cancellation, mobile and appliance protection, and more, in addition to vehicle, bike, and health insurance. Acko also touts partnerships with more than 15 key digital ecosystem firms, including Ola, RedBus, OYO, Zomato, Urban Company, HDB Financial Services, and others.

    Varun Dua on the Future of Insurance

    Varun Dua – Acko

    Varun Dua - Co-founder and CEO of Acko
    Varun Dua – Co-founder and CEO of Acko

    Acko’s overall motto, according to its website, is “Insurance made easy: Zero commission. Zero paperwork.” Acko ran a campaign with the phrase “Full Paisa Wasool” to make people aware. The term “complete value for money” refers to insurance providing complete value.

    Insurance schemes are how Acko makes money. Furthermore, Acko’s digital-only approach removes the retail costs of building physical storefronts as well as a parasitic reliance on a distribution network, both of which are factors that competing insurance firms rely on heavily.

    Insurers, according to the owner of Acko Insurance, Dua, are obligated to hire salespeople to reach out to clients and market their goods because they all essentially provide the same or comparable products.

    “Our focus on creating customised solutions will create the demand we are looking for, thus eliminating the need to hard-sell and invest a lot on a distributing network,” he adds.

    Mumbai-based Acko, founded by Varun Dua, features a variety of customer-friendly programs. The organization has received several five-star ratings and over 4.5 crore satisfied customers as a result of its customer-centric initiatives.

    Acko reported an operating revenue of INR 1,334 crore in FY22, which grew to INR 1,758 crore in FY23 and further increased to INR 2,106 crore in FY24. However, the company faced losses during these years. It recorded a loss of INR 482 crore in FY22, which widened to INR 738.5 crore in FY23 before improving slightly to INR 670 crore in FY24.

    They deliver outstanding customer service, and as a result, Acko has gained their clients’ confidence. Narayan Murthy and Accel are also behind Acko’s amazing growth. Acko underwrote a premium of INR 41.56 crore in September 2019. In comparison to 2018, the firm had a 6x increase. The premium was previously valued at INR 6.53 crore.

    Customers were unable to visit the showrooms because of the pandemic. Automobile purchases made through digital means, on the other side, have increased considerably. When compared with the year 2021, Acko, a digital insurance provider, saw a stunning 120 percent increase in sales of automotive insurance contracts in the first quarter of FY22.

    Whether it’s for our vehicle, bike, or ourselves, pre-purchased insurance nearly always comes in useful, if not proving to be a lifesaver. Unfortunately, not all insurance service providers are glad to embrace a 0% fee and serve their customers online, but Acko is, which is why Acko is swiftly gaining steam.

    Acko is here to provide premium insurance to the Indians. And moreover, the Mumbai-based Acko is now a unicorn. In the IPL 2022, Acko General Insurance signed on as an associate sponsor for three teams: Gujarat Titans, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Lucknow Supergiants. Two of these teams are new to IPL, having made their debut in the 15th edition.

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    Varun Dua – Investments

    Varun Dua has made 5 investments with the latest investment made in infinyte.club on August 12, 2024.

    Date Company Round Round Amount Lead Investor
    Aug 12, 2024 infinyte.club Seed Round INR 302 million –
    Jun 25, 2024 Plus Gold Seed Round $1.2 million –
    Sep 2, 2021 dezerv. Seed Round $7 million –
    May 23, 2017 Acko Seed Round $30 million No
    Feb 21, 2016 Charcoal Eats Seed Round $150K No

    Varun Dua – Challenges Faced

    A basic challenge with his journey in the insurance sector, according to Dua, has been a lack of trust, which has created a big obstacle in his way in the beginning. Because of the complexities of the products on the market, the buying procedure, and the claiming process, the trust gap is exacerbated.

    Customers have always found the insurance claims procedure to be a lengthy, time-consuming, and frequently iterative process. He wants to improve the consumer experience all the way through the value chain.

    Varun Dua – Shark Tank India

    Varun Dua - Shark Tank India
    Varun Dua – Shark Tank India

    In more ways than one, the first season of the show, Shark Tank India has been a blessing to ambitious entrepreneurs in India. For watchers, it has been a huge hit! For openers, the show has brought those entrepreneurs a lot of attention, if not money.

    The exposure, along with lucrative investments from the sharks, has paid off for some chosen ones. The Sharks’ banter, which is the most amusing segment for the desi population, helps to make the program what it is. It undoubtedly adds to the enthusiasm and provides some excellent items on Indian television. In the popular show’s third season, Varun Dua was one of the sharks at that time.

    This is what he wrote on his X account:

    To be a “shark” today for me is a strange feeling. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. And with my average grades, I wasn’t what you’d call type A either. There was nothing in my resume, my repertoire or my background which should lead to the path of starting out a business, that should become large. And yet, here I am. My journey building @ACKOIndia has been anything but straightforward which is why being on Shar40k Tank is so meaningful. There is immense opportunity for young entrepreneurs in right now, as we are on the verge of a techtonic shift in India and India’s ambitions. I’m looking forward to contributing in this new ocean of opportunities with some awesome entrepreneurs.

    Who is the Richest Shark in Shark Tank India? | Net Worth of Entire Cast of Shark Tank India
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    FAQs

    Who is Acko owner?

    Varun Dua is the founder and CEO of Acko Insurance.

    What are Varun Dua education qualifications?

    Varun Dua completed his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Mumbai. Later, he pursued a master’s at Mudra Institute of Communications (MICA), Ahmedabad.

    Does Amazon own Acko?

    Amazon is not Acko’s owner. While Amazon has been a major investor in Acko since 2018, contributing to its funding rounds, Acko remains an independent company with its own board of directors and management team.

    What is Varun Dua net worth?

    Varun Dua’s estimated net worth as of 2024 is INR 107 crore.

    Who is Varun Dua wife?

    Sapna Rana is the wife of Varun Dua.

    What is Varun Dua age?

    Varun Dua was born in 1981. He is 43 years old.

    What is Acko net worth?

    Acko’s valuation after its last funding round was $1.4 billion.