Shark Tank India 4: Pitcher Pooja reveals Anupam Mittal is the reason behind starting her cupcake business

Shark Tank 4

In the latest episode of Shark Tank India Season 4, Rohan Khanduja, the founder of Tripole, presented his brand specializing in adventure backpacks, rucksacks, and related apparel.

Seeking an investment of ₹1 crore for 1% equity, Rohan's pitch valued his company at a robust ₹100 crore. This ambitious valuation led to a variety of reactions from the sharks, setting the stage for a compelling exchange.

Anupam Mittal, known for his straightforward approach, was the most skeptical. He questioned Rohan’s justification for such a steep valuation, remarking, “Aapne kya sochke calculation kiya hai? Zindagi nikal jayegi ye 100 crores karne me.” His comment underscored the challenges in reaching such a high valuation, suggesting it would be a long and difficult journey.

Contrasting Anupam's skepticism, Namita Thapar, Kunal Bahl, and Ritesh Agarwal were more receptive to Rohan’s enthusiasm and the potential of Tripole. Namita offered two proposals: ₹50 lakh for 1% equity plus ₹50 lakh debt at 9% interest for three years, or ₹1 crore for 1.5% equity with a 1% royalty until ₹1 crore is recouped.

Anupam further shifted the conversation towards Rohan’s social media presence, expressing disappointment with the brand’s following of just 8,000. He candidly critiqued, “You should have had a million followers by now. I don’t think you are a slow rocket; I think you are a phuski rocket. For that reason, I am out.”

Kunal Bahl, however, opposed the idea of debt and royalty, proposing ₹3 crore for 7.5% equity, which valued the company at ₹40 crore. Ritesh Agarwal also made a competitive offer, prompting Rohan to counter with ₹75 lakh for 1% equity and ₹25 lakh debt at 9% interest over five years. Ritesh eventually matched this offer with ₹75 lakh for 1.15% equity and ₹25 lakh debt at the same interest rate. Namita matched Ritesh’s final offer, but Rohan ultimately chose to seal the deal with Ritesh Agarwal.

The episode highlighted the significance of accurate valuation, community building, and strategic investment decisions in today’s entrepreneurial landscape. One standout moment was Ritesh Agarwal’s personal anecdote about his early struggles in the business world, revealing that he had once been rejected by fellow Shark Kunal Bahl. “Even I faced many rejections from many investors. Kunal Bhai had also rejected me. Abhi bahut dosti hai. But that time I didn't have any background. I came from a small city. But I want to take a bet on you,” Ritesh candidly shared, inspiring both Rohan and the audience with his story of perseverance.

The third pitch of the day came from Pooja Balani and Narpat Singh Rathore, the owners of a Jodhpur-based cheesecake brand. Their brand, already successful on social media, impressed the sharks with its delicious offerings. The sharks, known for their sweet tooth, were visibly excited about the brand’s journey and future prospects.

Pooja shared a humorous backstory about the brand’s inception, which unexpectedly linked to Shark Anupam Mittal, founder of Shaadi.com. “I had quit my job and was at home. And someone opened my profile on Shaadi.com. I used to be very angry thinking, who started this site. I was scared as I didn't want to get married. I started making cupcakes, but they were not happening. After much struggle, I could make it. Then I thought I should sell them as well,” she recounted, drawing laughter and admiration from the sharks.

Their ask was ₹30 lakh for 5% equity in their business. While Anupam Mittal found the product too sugary, he appreciated their brand-building efforts, noting, “You have built a brand and have been an inspiration.”

The duo planned to use the funds to establish a central kitchen in Jaipur, aiming for broader distribution in cities like Gurugram and Delhi, while seeking mentorship for scaling their business.

Ritesh Agarwal, believing in their potential, offered ₹30 lakh for 7.5% equity. He shared his own challenges with rejection and emphasized the importance of supporting budding entrepreneurs. Though Pooja and Narpat did not accept Ritesh’s offer, they were grateful for his encouragement.

In a generous move, Ritesh shared his contact details, offering mentorship to Pooja and Narpat as they expanded their business. This gesture underscored the collaborative spirit of *Shark Tank India*, where even without a deal, invaluable advice and guidance are exchanged.

The episode was a testament to the dynamic interplay of valuation, investor interest, and entrepreneurial resilience, with each pitch offering lessons in business acumen and the power of persistence.