Offmint: Ashutosh Kumar’s Journey on Shark Tank India

Offmint has made waves in the entrepreneurial world, especially with Ashutosh Kumar, its founder, who made history on Shark Tank India by being the first entrepreneur to present two different brands. Although his debut during Season 2 didn’t end with a deal, the impact it had was significant. The encouragement received from the Sharks during that initial appearance became a crucial turning point in his life, ultimately setting the stage for his return with Offmint. However, the emotional stakes were considerably higher during his second pitch.

Ashutosh Kumar’s Vision for Offmint

Ashutosh made it clear that he was not looking for financial investment but rather sought the expertise of the Sharks. He expressed, “I’m not here for the money; I’m here to seek the Sharks’ expertise as Guru Dakshina.” His vision for Offmint focuses on honouring his late father’s memory while developing a sustainable fast-fashion brand.

A Heartfelt Story Behind the Brand

When asked by Anupam Mittal to share his backstory, Ashutosh revealed a deeply emotional moment: he lost his father on the same day he appeared on Shark Tank India Season 2. This tragic event marked a significant turning point for him, leading him to take on more responsibilities for his family. His heartfelt story resonated with the Sharks, particularly for Aman Gupta, who admitted, “I got goosebumps hearing his story.”

Support from Family and Unexpected Allies

Amidst his grief, Ashutosh discovered strength in his family’s support and found an unexpected ally in Rani Ahluwalia, a Shark Tank India enthusiast from London. Recognising his vision, she decided to invest Rs 5 crore, becoming a co-founder of Offmint.

A Unique Proposal in the Shark Tank

With Rani’s initial investment providing a strong foundation, Ashutosh approached the Sharks again, presenting them with a unique proposition — asking for just Rs 10 in return for their guidance. Namita Thapar was quick to support a deal involving all five Sharks. However, Anupam Mittal required clarity on the brand’s unique selling proposition and sales figures before finalising his agreement.

The Deal is Sealed

In the end, the Sharks offered Rs 10 lakh for 4% equity in Offmint. Ashutosh successfully clinched a deal with all five Sharks: Anupam Mittal, Aman Gupta, Vineeta Singh, Peyush Bansal, and Namita Thapar. They appreciated his determination and mission. Offmint is celebrated for its environmentally-conscious approach, and every customer receives a pen embedded with seeds as a reminder of its commitment to sustainability.