The founders sought ₹1 crore in exchange for 1.25% equity, valuing the company at ₹80 crore.
Their pitch highlighted:
- The growing demand for Ayurvedic supplements in the Indian market.
- Their commitment to high-quality, lab-tested formulations.
- A need for investment to expand their product range and distribution.
The sharks were intrigued but had several concerns.
While these numbers looked promising, the sharks had reservations about the brand’s high marketing spend.
Shark Aman joked about the brand’s heavy focus on Shilajit, suggesting that their product line needed diversification.
When the founders offered Aman their Shilajit honey, he laughed and said, “Mujhe toh zaroorat nahi hai” (I don’t need it)”, bringing a lighthearted moment to the pitch.
Shark Namita raised a critical issue, clinical validation. She asked whether Zingavita had conducted clinical trials to back up their health claims.
The founders responded by saying Indians are already aware of Shilajit’s benefits, which did not satisfy Namita or the other sharks.
Despite an engaging discussion, the sharks remained unconvinced.
The concerns that led to rejection included:
- Premium pricing: The sharks felt the products were too expensive for mass adoption.
- Lack of clinical trials: No scientific backing for their health claims.
- Overdependence on marketing: 50% of their budget went into advertising, raising concerns about sustainability.
As a result, no shark made an offer, and the founders left without a deal.