Ever wondered what happens after entrepreneurs receive that celebratory cheque on Shark Tank India? Anupam Mittal, the Shaadi.com founder and prominent shark, just lifted the curtain on a reality that many viewers don’t know about—the TV cheque isn’t guaranteed money.
Shark Tank India Reality Behind the Cameras
| Shark Tank Process | Reality Check |
|---|---|
| On-screen pitch time | 15 minutes (edited from hours) |
| Cheque presentation | Non-binding term sheet |
| Due diligence timing | After filming completes |
| Deal finalization | Post background verification |
| Success rate | Not all deals close |
What Anupam Mittal Really Said
In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Mittal explained that the brief pitch sessions limit thorough evaluation, with real assessment beginning after filming. Think of it as a promising first date—exciting, but you need more time to be sure.
The Due Diligence Game
Mittal stated that minor discrepancies of 5-10% in numbers aren’t deal-breakers, but outright lies will cause entrepreneurs to fail the verification process. It’s about honesty, not perfection.
He drew a powerful comparison to venture capital practices: “The cheque we give on the tank is equivalent to a non-binding term sheet that VCs use—it means the deal looks good, but due diligence must be completed first”.
Breaking Down the Investment Journey
Stage 1: The TV Pitch
Entrepreneurs present their business in what appears to be 15 minutes on screen (though actual filming takes much longer). Sharks evaluate the pitch, ask questions, and make offers based on initial impressions.
Stage 2: The Cheque Moment
The dramatic cheque handover happens, cameras capture the celebration, but this is just the beginning. It’s a commitment to proceed, not a finalized investment.
Stage 3: Real Due Diligence
After filming wraps, the sharks’ teams conduct comprehensive background checks, verify financial claims, assess market potential, and review legal documents.
Stage 4: Final Deal or Walk Away
If everything checks out, the investment closes. If discrepancies emerge, either party can walk away—no hard feelings, just business.
Debunking Common Myths
Mittal has previously clarified several misconceptions: the show isn’t scripted, sharks invest their own money, and they don’t receive cheat sheets about founders.
This transparency matters because it sets realistic expectations for aspiring entrepreneurs across India. Sony Entertainment Television, which broadcasts the show, has helped democratize startup funding awareness.
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Why This Matters for Entrepreneurs
Understanding the real investment process helps founders prepare better. It’s not just about a great pitch—it’s about having your financials, legal documents, and business metrics completely buttoned up.
Mittal, who has invested in over 250 startups including Ola and BigBasket through his two-decade career, knows what he’s looking for. His experience as the founder of People Group and Shaadi.com gives him unique insights into building sustainable businesses.
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The Takeaway
Shark Tank India offers incredible opportunities, but it’s not a shortcut to instant funding. The real work begins after the cameras stop rolling. For entrepreneurs, this means having absolute clarity on your numbers, being truthfully transparent, and preparing for rigorous scrutiny.
FAQs
Q1: What percentage of Shark Tank India deals actually close after the show?
While exact numbers aren’t publicly disclosed, not all on-screen deals finalize. The due diligence process weeds out deals where entrepreneurs misrepresented facts or where business metrics don’t hold up under scrutiny. Industry estimates suggest 60-70% of deals shown on TV eventually close, though this varies by season and shark.
Q2: How long does the due diligence process take after receiving a cheque on Shark Tank India?
The due diligence process typically takes 2-6 months after filming. During this period, the sharks’ legal and financial teams verify all claims, review documentation, conduct market research, and negotiate final terms. The timeline can vary based on business complexity, documentation readiness, and any red flags that emerge during verification.
