Tag: Shark Tank India

  • Shark Tank India 5 opens the tank with a call to ditch burnout and pitch brilliance

    Shark Tank India 5 opens the tank with a call to ditch burnout and pitch brilliance

    MUMBAI: The sharks are circling again. Shark Tank India is back for a fiery fifth season, opening the floodgates for India’s boldest, brightest business ideas—with registrations now live on Sony Liv. The show, which has quickly evolved from a niche format to a national pitch phenomenon, will once again air across Sony Liv and Sony Entertainment Television, bringing prime-time entrepreneurship to every screen.

    This season’s promo swims upstream with a cheeky jab at hustle culture. In a witty twist on the 70-hour workweek mantra, the new campaign declares: “Breakthroughs aren’t born from burnout—they’re born from brave ideas.” The message? You don’t need exhaustion, you need innovation.

    Since its Indian debut in 2021, the tank has hosted 741 pitches, backed 351 deals, and facilitated over Rs 293 crore in funding. From college dorm rooms to family kitchens, it’s become the holy grail for every dreamer with a deck.

    Got a wild idea, a disruptive product, or a startup that’s just waiting to scale? The tank is open—apply now on Sony Liv. Because the next big thing might just be one pitch away.

    https://sharktank.sonyliv.com/

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Sony LIV (@sonylivindia)

     

  • Anupam Mittal takes a spin in Dupahiya as he makes his acting debut

    Anupam Mittal takes a spin in Dupahiya as he makes his acting debut

    MUMBAI: Anupam Mittal is switching gears from the boardroom to the big screen well, almost. The Shark Tank India judge and entrepreneur is making his acting debut in Dupahiya, Prime Video’s upcoming dramedy, bringing his signature business wisdom to the show’s small-town chaos.

    In a recently released promo, Mittal finds himself in the thick of Dupahiya’s central plot, a missing motorcycle that turns an entire village upside down. Blending sharp humour with his entrepreneurial persona, he playfully evaluates the stolen bike’s “business potential,” making for a tongue-in-cheek crossover that has already sparked buzz online.

    Set in a North Indian village, Dupahiya promises a laughter-packed ride, combining love, family, and unexpected twists in a fresh take on rural storytelling. With its sharp wit, vibrant characters, and now, an unexpected pop-culture twist, the show is primed to become a fan-favourite.

    As Prime Video gears up for the grand premiere of Dupahiya, this surprise collaboration ensures that the show’s promotional campaign is just as entertaining as the series itself. Buckle up, this dramedy is about to take audiences on a joyride!

  • Better Nutrition bites big, picks Adgcraft to spice up brand visibility

    Better Nutrition bites big, picks Adgcraft to spice up brand visibility

    MUMBAI: Ever wondered what happens when an Olympic medallist, a Masterchef winner, and Shark Tank India meet for lunch? Well, besides one heck of a meal, you get Better Nutrition—India’s first biofortified food brand that’s now seasoning its success with a new PR partner. Time to cook up something special, folks!

    Better Nutrition, famed for championing healthier eating habits with nutrient-rich biofortified grains, has officially onboarded Adgcraft as its public relations partner. Adgcraft’s role involves masterminding all PR strategies and campaigns, ensuring Better Nutrition’s media presence shines brighter than a Michelin-star kitchen.

    Better Nutrition co-founder Prateek Rastogi enthusiastically explained, “At Better Nutrition, our goal has always been to provide natural solutions to the prevalent nutrition deficiencies in everyday diets. Partnering with Adgcraft allows us to communicate our mission more effectively and reach a broader audience. We are confident that this collaboration will help us to reach our target audience more effectively.”

    Adgcraft founder & MD Abhinay Kumar Singh eagerly echoed Rastogi’s sentiments, stating, “We are delighted to join hands with Better Nutrition, a company that aligns with our values of innovation and positive societal impact. Our team is committed to crafting communication strategies that not only enhance brand perception but also contribute to the greater good. Together, we aim to highlight the importance of natural, nutrient-rich diets and support Better Nutrition’s vision of a healthier India.”

    Already endorsed by household names like Olympic sensation PV Sindhu and culinary wizard Masterchef Pankaj Bhadouria—and famously spotlighted on Shark Tank India season 4—Better Nutrition is clearly not your average pantry item. Their menu is packed with biofortified grains enriched with essential nutrients such as zinc, iron, protein, and calcium, all sustainably sourced from over 15,000 environmentally savvy farmers.

    This partnership expands Adgcraft’s impressive client roster, leveraging their proven expertise within India’s FMCG sector and extensive media connections. Can they sprinkle enough PR magic to make nutrition go viral? Well, grab your popcorn (fortified, of course!) and stay tuned.

  • Sony LIV’s divyang special spotlights unique visionaries

    Sony LIV’s divyang special spotlights unique visionaries

    MUMBAI : Sony LIV is pushing boundaries with Gateway to Shark Tank – divyang special, a unique edition of Shark Tank India that champions innovation and entrepreneurship among specially abled individuals and those striving to empower them. This special episode isn’t just about business—it’s about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and celebrating the bold ideas that drive inclusive progress.

    This special initiative highlights groundbreaking ideas and inclusive solutions, with the backing of Adani Airports director Jeet Adani who also oversees the Adani group’s defence, petrochemicals, and copper businesses while spearheading the group’s digital transformation.

    Entries for Gateway to Shark Tank – divyang special are open until 15 February 2025, after which shortlisted pitches will be featured in an exclusive episode. Through this initiative, Shark Tank India and Jeet Adani aim to mentor and support entrepreneurs driving disability-inclusive innovation, promoting accessibility and progress.

    Commenting on the initiative, Sony LIV head of ad sales revenue Ranjana Mangla, stated: “Shark Tank India has always been a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs. We are committed to inclusivity, supporting specially abled entrepreneurs and businesses catering to their empowerment. It is heartening to see established leaders like Jeet Adani supporting this cause, amplifying its impact and reach.”

    Adani Airports director Jeet Adani, added: “There is immense potential to create disruptive solutions in this space. We need more passionate innovators addressing the challenges faced by specially abled individuals. I am excited to partner with Shark Tank India to support entrepreneurs and drive meaningful change.”

  • Clapstore Toys makes big splash with all shark deal

    Clapstore Toys makes big splash with all shark deal

    MUMBAI: In a world dominated by screens, two young entrepreneurs are redefining playtime! Yash Thombare (22) and Vedang Nalawade (21) from Pune are on a mission to bring the joy of real-world play back to children. With their brainchild, Clapstore Toys, launched in 2020, they’ve created educational toys designed to engage kids aged till six years while fostering essential skills. Already impacting over 50,000 families across India, their success story is gaining momentum.

    In the latest season of Shark Tank India 4,  Thombare and  Nalawade took centre stage with their innovative product – the portable busy boards. A first in India, these boards aim to captivate young minds with hands-on, screen-free learning. The Sharks were initially intrigued but skeptical until they saw the product in action. After a heartwarming live demo with kids, the duo’s pitch gained traction. Seeking Rs 80 lakh for four per cent equity, the founders struck a sweet deal: Rs 1 crore for 10 per cent equity, backed by all five Sharks!

    “The Sharks’ feedback was invaluable,” said Thombare and Nalawade. “Their mentorship will accelerate our growth and help us make our innovative toys more accessible to families across India.” Their victory on Shark Tank is a testament to their unwavering belief in the power of real play and their mission to enrich childhood development through screen-free toys.

    So, what’s next for Clapstore? With the support of the Sharks, this dynamic duo is ready to scale up and take their vision even further.

  • Kunal Bahl joins Shark Tank India season four panel

    Kunal Bahl joins Shark Tank India season four panel

    Mumbai: Shark Tank India returns with its highly anticipated fourth season, promising an exciting lineup of innovative ideas, dynamic entrepreneurs, and game-changing deals. The new season welcomes a new shark, Snapdeal & Titan Capital co-founder and Unicommerce promoter Kunal Bahl.

    A renowned entrepreneur and investor, Bahl has built and scaled various technology businesses and has also invested in more than 250 start-ups. An influential voice in the Indian start-up space, Kunal has received numerous accolades, including the Economic Times Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the Joseph Wharton Award for Young Leadership, Fortune’s 40 Under 40, amongst others.

    Kunal will be joining the panel of: People Group founder and CEO Anupam Mittal, boAt Lifestyle co-founder and CMO Aman Gupta, Emcure Pharmaceuticals executive director Namita Thapar, and OYO founder & group CEO Ritesh Agarwal.

    This season introduces new hosts, Sahiba Bali and Ashish Solanki, bringing their unique energy and flair to the show. 
     

  • Shark Tank India season four filming begins

    Shark Tank India season four filming begins

    Mumbai: After three game-changing seasons, Shark Tank India is back with an all-new season. This season is once again set to showcase innovative ideas and deals that could influence the future of start-ups in India.

    The shooting of the first episode has kicked off with a lineup of impressive sharks: People Group, founder and CEO Anupam Mittal; boAt Lifestyle, co-founder and CMO Aman Gupta; Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd, executive director Namita Thapar; Lenskart, co-founder and CEO Peyush Bansal; and OYO, founder and group CEO Ritesh Agarwal. As the season unfolds, audiences can look forward to the addition of new sharks to the panel, bringing their dynamic energy and entrepreneurial expertise to the mix.

     

     

    This season promises an exciting twist with the dynamic duo of comedian Ashish Solanki and Sahiba Bali taking the role as hosts, ready to bring their unique flair to the show.

    Since its debut, Shark Tank India has encouraged countless Indians to present their entrepreneurial dreams. This year’s campaign, “Sirf Dream Job Nahi, Apne Dream Idea Ke Peeche Bhaagega India,” will showcase passionate entrepreneurs and dreamers pitching their best to turn their aspirations into reality.

    Stay tuned for updates on Shark Tank India 4, coming soon to Sony LIV.

  • Shilpa Shetty joins Alpino as brand ambassador and key investor

    Shilpa Shetty joins Alpino as brand ambassador and key investor

    Mumbai: Alpino, the renowned healthy foods brand that rose to fame on Shark Tank India, has welcomed Shilpa Shetty as its brand ambassador and key investor. This partnership signifies a major milestone for Alpino, which also raised $1.2 million in its maiden funding round, with participation from Paresh Ghelani and other prominent angel investors from Aashar Capital.

    Alpino, known for revolutionising the health food industry, offers a unique product range based entirely on peanuts. It stands as the world’s only peanut product company, making nutritious eating fun with its high-protein items like peanut butter, super rolled oats, super muesli, and the world’s first peanut protein isolate powder. The company plans to launch over 20 new products in the next two years.  

    As a long-time fan of Alpino’s peanut butter, Shilpa Shetty expressed her excitement, “I’ve always believed in living a balanced life—staying healthy, but without stressing over it too much. Alpino embodies this philosophy perfectly. Their natural peanut butter has been a staple in my home; my kids love it too. It’s a brand I’ve trusted and enjoyed, so when the opportunity arose to become a part of Alpino, it felt like a natural fit, just like their products.”

    Last year, Alpino faced a setback when a fire at its Surat warehouse caused losses exceeding Rs 2 crore, halting operations for six months. However, the brand rebounded with the launch of “Alpino 2.0,” achieving record-breaking revenues and demonstrating its resilience.

    The funds from this round will boost Alpino’s offline presence, support international expansion, and drive product innovation. With a growth rate exceeding 150 per cent this year, Alpino’s in-house production capabilities and global reach have established it as a market leader. The brand is a top seller on e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, with products available at over 6,000 retail touchpoints across India, including major chains like Reliance, Metro Wholesale, and Godrej’s Nature’s Basket. Alpino also sells its products in over 10 countries worldwide.

    Founded in 2016 by six friends—Chetan Kanani, Hiren Sheta, Umesh Gajera, Priyank Vora, Milan Gopani, and Mahatva Sheta—Alpino aims to become a Rs 500 crore brand within the next two years. Shilpa Shetty’s involvement strengthens this commitment and aligns with Alpino’s mission to make India a protein-rich nation without compromising on taste.

    “We are beyond thrilled to welcome Shilpa Shetty to Alpino,” said Alpino Health Foods, CEO & co-founder Chetan Kanani. “Shilpa’s dedication to transforming India’s approach to health and her genuine love for our products make her the ideal face for our brand. Her zestful, fun-loving nature and passion for fitness perfectly align with our brand positioning that healthy eating should be fun and not a burden. We are confident that Shilpa’s influence will inspire more people to embrace a protein-rich lifestyle.”

    XPRIZE Foundation’s board member Paresh Ghelani who also joins as a key investor and advisor, added, “As someone deeply committed to innovation and impact, I see Alpino as more than just a brand – it’s a movement towards healthier living. The founders’ passion for creating high-quality, accessible nutrition aligns perfectly with my vision of empowering individuals to lead better lives. I am excited to support Alpino in their journey to make healthy eating a fun, enjoyable, and integral part of daily life, not just in India but across the globe. Together, we can drive a significant shift in how people perceive and consume nutrition.”

    With Shilpa Shetty onboard, Alpino remains committed to making its protein-rich products a staple in every household, striving to make India protein-sufficient without compromising on taste or quality.

  • Namakwali strikes deal with Car Dekho founder on Shark Tank India

    Namakwali strikes deal with Car Dekho founder on Shark Tank India

    Mumbai: In the serene foothills of Uttarakhand, amidst the lush greens and mountain breezes, a tale of entrepreneurial spirit and social impact unfolds. Meet Shashi Bahuguna Raturi, the visionary founder of Yellow Hinsar Pvt Ltd and the driving force behind the acclaimed brand Namakwali.

    It all began in September 2020 when Shashi, at the age of 50, officially registered Yellow Hinsar Pvt Ltd. However, the roots of her journey trace back to 2018 when she commenced operations through Instagram and Facebook. Prior to this venture, Shashi was deeply involved in running an NGO focused on women’s empowerment, marking her commitment to uplifting marginalised communities.

    The motivation behind Namakwali was twofold – to generate income for rural women and to showcase the natural and organic products of the mountains. With a desire to provide healthy alternatives while empowering women, Shashi embarked on a journey that would transform into a thriving business endeavour.

    Recently in this season of Shark Tank India, she participated and represented her brand at the national level. They also got a deal from Amit Jain, founder of Car Dekho.

    As the sun sets over the majestic Himalayas, Shashi Bahuguna Raturi’s journey continues to inspire, illuminating pathways for women empowerment and sustainable entrepreneurship in the heart of the mountains.

    Bootstrapped from the outset, Namakwali started with a modest investment of 150,000 rupees. Yet, through dedication and perseverance, the business flourished, achieving an annual turnover of 50 lakh.

    Namakwali’s business model revolves around direct-to-consumer (D2C) operations, offering a diverse range of 21 products priced between Rs120 to Rs2800. Their primary clientele consists of health-conscious consumers who value natural and organic products.

    Headquartered at Upper Tunwala Ambika Vihar, Dehradun, Namakwali currently operates with a team of 13 individuals. Their manufacturing and packaging unit spans 1200 square feet, housing a dedicated workforce.

    Looking ahead, Namakwali aims to expand its presence offline by venturing into supermarkets and stores in metropolitan cities, with aspirations for international expansion on the horizon.

    Beyond business, Shashi’s journey is deeply personal. Raised in Uttarakhand, her love for local cuisine and passion for community development were ingrained from an early age. Armed with a degree in social work, she embarked on a mission to empower women, with her family and friends providing unwavering support along the way.

    Within her familial circle, Shashi is supported by her esteemed husband, and her cherished sons, Navendu Raturi and Suvendu Raturi, each contributing to the family’s journey of growth and resilience.

    Shashi’s legacy extends beyond Namakwali. In 1982, she laid the foundation for community awareness initiatives through the establishment of Balwadis, now recognised as Anganwadis, symbolising a testament to her enduring commitment to societal impact and empowerment.

  • ONDC gets a shout-out in Shark Tank India Season 3

    ONDC gets a shout-out in Shark Tank India Season 3

    Mumbai: During the third season of Shark Tank India, Anupam Mittal, the entrepreneurial force behind Shaadi.com (People Group) and a distinguished Shark on the panel, cast a spotlight on Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). Mittal’s compelling elucidation of the Open Network’s potential to democratize digital commerce could help India’s startups to harness the vast opportunities of the Open Network.

    During the Kiko Live pitch segment in Episode 47 of Shark Tank India Season 3, Mittal drew parallels between the ONDC Network and the revolutionary Unified Payments Interface (UPI) initiative by the Government of India. He emphasized ONDC Network’s pivotal role in fostering inclusive digital commerce for all kinds of players in the market.

    “We would like to extend our gratitude to Anupam for educating the audience about a seemingly complex subject like ONDC in a clear and well-articulated manner,” said ONDC MD & CEO T. Koshy. “Mention of the ONDC Network on Shark Tank India, underscores the importance of the Open Network as a catalyst for innovation, essential for startups to thrive. For startups aiming to grow seamlessly, join our vast Network where opportunities are limitless.”

    Mittal said “What UPI did for payments, ONDC Network offers the same transformation for digital commerce. It’s about creating an inclusive Network where every business, no matter its size, can thrive online. This initiative is a powerful step towards ensuring that growth and opportunities are not confined to the few but are accessible to all.”