My Story 

Grew up in the middle-east. Did my Automobile Engineering in Mysore University (2000) and my MBA in Birmingham UK (2006). Have over two decades of work experience in verticals such as automotive, engineering and local government services. 

How I got into investment banking? 

In my last job before IE, I was involved in the sale of the company to an MNC. I found M&A to be more interesting than what I was doing (Engineering/Project management. BOOOO!). I had known Shiv and Zerin for a while and they granted me an opportunity to explore a new career in IB when I left my previous job (coincidentally just at the same time IE was becoming a full fledged IB).

What keeps me up at night? 

I sleep pretty well. I wish my deep sleep% was better though. 

My inspirations 

1. Leo Messi for showing the greatness humans are capable of achieving.
2. Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors coach) for his compassionate leadership.
3. Christopher Hitchens (writer) for opening my eyes to humanistic philosophy and anti-authoritarianism.
4. Joe Biden for coming on top in spite of being constantly underestimated at each turn. 
5. The band Rammstein for staying together for 30 years and cranking out hit after hit while being completely true to themselves.
6. Cory Balrog (Game designer of God of War) – for showing that quirkiness, humor and your personality can be blended into your profession and you can still create something great. Same for Taika Waititi.

My focus/interest 

Any business addressing large markets through revolutionary offerings brought to life by founders uniquely qualified to ensure success. I mainly look at deep tech and gaming. 

What excites me?

Underdog founders – The ones who aren’t rockstars (and easily written off) but can still change the world. Also the promise of the youngsters who join IE and the hope that I can play a part in their development. 

Best piece of advice given to me 

The only way to make someone trustworthy is by trusting them. 90% of people will not break your trust. Best advice i give – You must be able to love yourself enough to hate yourself enough. You should despise who you see in the mirror so that you can constantly improve.

My advice to entrepreneurs 

1. Stay true to your vision – You are in the arena. You should know what is best for your business.
2. Optimise for resilience rather than growth. Assume that the previous round you raised is the last round you will raise. 
3. Never burn your way to building a loyal customer base.
4. If your product/offering is good enough PMF will find you.
5. Advice to consumer founders – Brands take time to build. Be patient with your offering and your consumers.
6. Advice to tech founders – Build something which is as close as possible to being mission critical for the customers. B2E vs B2B. Reoccuring revenue is as good as Recurring as long as ACVs and GMs are high.

What IndigoEdge is to me? 

Home. The place I found the best version of myself. The last place I’ll work till I start a Shwarma stand or my own religion. 

Cooling off 

Reading, playing video games (Action games, Shooter campaigns, Fifa), listening to music (Modern Rock, Electronic), working out, football (watching and playing), playing the drums and surrendering to my youtube feed.