Turning Point in Startup Journey with Nithin Kamath
A late-night message sent on impulse and an unexpected reply an hour later is recognised as a significant moment in one founder’s startup journey. A post recalling an initial interaction with Nithin Kamath resonated with India’s startup community, sparking discussions on access, mentorship, and the impact of small gestures.
The story was shared on X by Manoj Ahirwar, who mentioned that in 2020, upon launching his startup MoneyFit, he took the initiative to email Kamath directly, without having high expectations.
To his astonishment, Kamath replied within an hour and even included members of his team for feedback on the pitch. Although the discussion did not lead to an investment from Zerodha, Manoj conveyed that the response left a lasting impression on him.
By sharing a screenshot of their email exchange, he expressed how unique and inspiring it was to receive a personal response from a prominent industry player during such an early and uncertain phase. Manoj highlighted that founders could directly approach someone of Kamath’s stature, showcasing his openness in an ecosystem where first-time founders often find it challenging to gain attention.
Reflecting on the past five years, Manoj noted that MoneyFit did not grow as he had envisioned. However, he persevered and indicated that he had been managing a different company for the last 2.5 years, achieving over $200,000 in revenue, attributing his success to persistence rather than quick wins.
In concluding his post, he remarked that while his startup MoneyFit wasn’t prepared for investment at that time, he was pleased that he made the attempt regardless.
I reached out to Nithin Kamath back in 2020 when I launched my startup MoneyFit. I didn’t expect a reply, but he responded within an hour. While I didn’t end up getting investment from Zerodha, it was incredible to see how accessible he was. You could just reach out directly to…
— Manoj Ahirwar (@manoj_ahi) January 15, 2026
The post quickly gained visibility, earning commendations for both Manoj’s determination and Kamath’s relatable response. Numerous users remarked how short, authentic interactions from established founders can significantly influence early-stage journeys.
One user noted that beyond accessibility, it highlights how humble and grounded Kamath was. Another pointed out that reflecting on the past is crucial to understanding one’s current standing, observing that many might assume he wouldn’t respond, yet Manoj took the leap and benefited as a result.
