The show that has given a framework to the millions of Indian startup dreams has also somehow encapsulated so many things that make Indians, well, Indians!
Here is a list of a few things that make the show unique and indicate a fundamental difference in comparison to its American counterpart.
We may be wrong, and even if we are right, it is not necessary that what we believe is applicable for every Indian and American. However, we do feel there are a few things that make Shark Tank India unique – even admirable.
Indian Sharks are not too sharky
Anyone who has watched and followed the Shark Tank series is well versed with the term – ‘a sharky offer’. It’s usually indicative of an offer that puts entrepreneurs in a tough spot because they’re having to give up much more than they came prepared for. But in the Indian version, almost all the offers made have been quite considerate, going on to show that we definitely have greater respect for people’s hustle. Like Aman says in one of the episodes, “Ham Indian hain, emotional hain ham log..!”
Indian Sharks are biting each other!
While our Indian sharks are not too sharky with the participating startups, they are often seen biting each other’s heads off for a god deal. At one point, we literally see the sharks having a bidding war to have a stake in a participating Electronic Vehicle company.
Simplified for the simpletons
While the Indian startup scene is relatively young (Startup India forum was officially launched just in 2016), capitalist America is too far and too deep into it. This is reflected in many ways, for example when our Indian sharks cut to the camera to define concepts like Gross Profit ratio, equity, valuations etc. The greatest equity on the Indian Shark Tank is the knowledge that is being shared – by both investors and entrepreneurs.
Women’s issues
Shark Tank India brought to the fore the many issues that Indian women have to face at every stage of owning and running a business. The social and familial resistance, the burden of domestic responsibilities, and just a general lack of support structures. We have not seen much of this in the American version of the series.
Also, did you know that Shark Tank has its framchise in over 27 countries, and that it was originally adapted from a popular series called Dragons’ Den that was first created in Japan?
Which other country’s Tank would you be most interested in finding more about?
You can also check out all about my sustainability startup, Bamboofied Global, and find out all the amazing things that we are trying to do with bamboo and the world’s efforts towards net-zero.
If you had the chance, what startup idea would you propose? Let us know
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