Shark Tank India judge warns against ‘startup romance’, shares dark truth

The startup culture in India has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade, reshaping career aspirations for many. However, Edelweiss Mutual Funds CEO and Shark Tank India Season 3 judge Radhika Gupta issued a warning against the alluring “startup romance.”

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she cautioned aspiring entrepreneurs warning that “there is now an increased air of ‘startup romance’”.

The term, startup romance, refers to a growing trend in many countries, especially India, where many youngsters aim to start their entrepreneurial journey simply by being attracted to the luxury showcased by successful entrepreneurs on social media.

There is now an increased air of "start-up romance". That paints start up life as working in chiller attire out of a fancy co working space, talking ideas all day, raising funding rounds, giving gyaan on social media, hosting Fri Eve drinks for colleagues. Don't fall for it.…

— Radhika Gupta (@iRadhikaGupta) December 25, 2024

Sternly emphasizing to her followers “Don't fall for it,” she highlighted the stark realities of startup life. Running a business often means painful execution, tight budgets, challenging working conditions, constant rejection, difficulties in hiring and retention, pressure to generate revenue at any cost, and prolonged uncertainty, which social media does not showcase.

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Her statement sparked a debate on social media, with some supporting her view and others disagreeing. One user shared, “Absolutely right. Social media fails to paint the truth and youngsters bite the bait.” Another noted, “If 5% of startups succeed, 95% fail, and people need to know that, but it is their personal choice.”

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However, her insights shed light on the tough journey many entrepreneurs face, urging caution and a realistic view of startup life even as India recorded many unicorns emerging in the past year and several of them going on to become leading industry players.