Snapdeal co-founder Kunal Bahl will replace Goyal as a Shark Tank judge.
In an unexpected twist Indian startup landscape, Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal announced that he will not be returning as a judge for the upcoming fourth season of popular reality TV show, Shark Tank India.
This decision comes amidst reports that Swiggy, Zomato’s main rival in the food delivery space, will be sponsoring the new season of Shark Tank India. An ET report indicates that Goyal’s sudden departure is linked to a strategic agreement made by Swiggy, who will reportedly spend Rs 25 crore to sponsor the new season.
Swiggy allegedly stipulated that Goyal not return to the show as an investor as part of the agreement.
“I unfortunately can’t go back because Swiggy sponsored Shark Tank this time and kicked me out,” Goyal said at ET Startup Awards 2024 on Saturday.
His exit signifies a major change for the show, which has built a committed following since he became judge in Season 3, where he was praised for his candid observations and sharp wit. It is also an indication of the intensifying rivalry between Zomato and Swiggy, the former of which has an advantage in the current market.
Kunal Bahl, co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Captain, will be replacing Goyal as the newest judge of Shark Tank. A prominent entrepreneur, he has invested in over 250 startups, making him an ideal replacement.
🦈 Introducing the Newest Shark: @1kunalbahl! 🦈
We’re thrilled and elated to announce that our co-founder, Kunal Bahl, is joining #SharkTankIndia as the newest #Shark! 🦈✨
From co-founding @snapdeal to backing some of India’s most promising startups with @TitanCapitalVC,… pic.twitter.com/f0IsrytJZu
— Titan Capital (@TitanCapitalVC) October 7, 2024
As the newest Shark, Bahl will join the established ranks of Anupam Mittal, founder and CEO of People Group, Aman Gupta, co-founder and CMO of boAt Lifestyle, Namita Thapar, executive director at Emcure Pharmaceuticals, and Ritesh Agarwal, founder and group CEO of OYO. The upcoming season will also introduce new hosts, Sahiba Bali and Ashish Solanki.
While Shark Tank India is confirmed to launch on Sony LIV, its premiere date is yet to be announced.
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