Bengaluru kids' Eco Vala startup wins Harsh Goenka's heart: 'Forget Shark Tank, Ideabaaz'

In the viral clip, the children explain their subscription model: “We have a subscription, Rs 10 a month. We will drop two paper bags every Sunday at your house. Just give the address,” says Sharada, holding up a sample bag. (Image credit: @startupro_/Instagram)

A video of three schoolchildren from Bengaluru pitching their eco-friendly startup has gone viral, drawing praise from industrialist Harsh Goenka, who called their idea better than any reality show pitch.

The simplicity and confidence of the pitch impressed Goenka, who posted on X:
“Forget Shark Tank, forget Ideabaaz, this pitch stole my heart.”

Forget Shark Tank, forget Ideabaaz, this pitch stole my heart…. pic.twitter.com/nABlEU4vU2

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— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) November 1, 2025

The trio—Sharada (founder), Nachiketa (manager) and Samudyata (co-manager)—all reportedly under 11, launched Eco Wala to replace plastic bags with handmade paper bags crafted without glue or scissors. Their mission: promote sustainable living at an affordable price.

‘Just Rs 10 a month'

In the viral clip, the children explain their subscription model: “We have a subscription, Rs 10 a month. We will drop two paper bags every Sunday at your house. Just give the address,” says Sharada, holding up a sample bag. She adds that customers can call for extra bags during functions and even offers free samples.

Big message in a small idea

Eco Wala’s design uses folding techniques instead of glue, making the bags cost-effective and eco-friendly. The Rs 10 subscription plan encourages households to ditch plastic and adopt greener habits. Customers can also place additional orders for events without altering their monthly plan.

The children’s initiative, born out of a school project in Bengaluru's Basaveshwaranagar, has sparked conversations about sustainability and entrepreneurship at a young age. Social media users echoed Goenka’s sentiment, calling the idea “brilliant” and “inspiring.”

"Forget just textbooks, when kids sell paper bags as subscriptions, they’re learning real-life skills: creativity, confidence, problem-solving and money management. These hands-on experiences build future leaders who can turn any idea into impact. That’s education that truly sticks!" said one X user. "This isn't just a startup... it's a lesson in environmental responsibility delivered for Rs 10 a month. Truly heartwarming!" commented another.