BITS Pilani is renowned for its vibrant alumni network. How has this network been a part of your journey, and could you share any memorable experiences with fellow alumni?

The BITS alumni network has been instrumental in my journey. Whether it’s professional or personal, the willingness of BITSians to help each other is extraordinary. Throughout my career, I’ve reached out to BITS alumni from various industries for guidance, advice, and mentorship. I remember attending an alumni meet where I reconnected with a senior who later became a mentor and advisor. His guidance has helped me navigate crucial career decisions and shaped my perspective on venture capital and entrepreneurship. This network has been an invaluable resource, providing both guidance and camaraderie, proving that being a BITSian is not just a tag but a lifelong community.

Entrepreneurship is often encouraged at BITS Pilani. How did the campus environment influence your career path, and what stands out as unique in BITS’s culture compared to other institutions?

BITS fosters a strong sense of independence and responsibility that encourages entrepreneurial thinking. From the start, students have the freedom to explore, collaborate, and create their projects, which instills confidence and initiative. One of my closest friends from college, deeply interested in entrepreneurship, went on to found Flam, a successful company that has even provided marketing services to clients like Kamala Harris for her campaign and brands like Britannia. The supportive campus atmosphere, along with the openness to experiment with ideas, sets BITS apart. Unlike other colleges, where academics often take precedence, BITS offers a balanced environment that fosters resilience, innovation, and self-discovery.

BITS offers a range of academic and extracurricular options. Were there any specific courses, clubs, or experiences that significantly shaped your outlook or skills?

Definitely. BITS’s flexible academic system allowed me to pursue courses in entrepreneurship and management, which sparked my interest in venture capital early on. I also joined the Entrepreneurship Cell, where I worked on startup-focused events and projects. This experience connected me with alumni, like-minded peers, and industry experts, allowing me to gain insights into the world of startups and business development. These interactions were foundational, as they deepened my passion for venture capital and gave me skills that I carry forward in my role today.

BITS has a rich culture of sports and recreation. Were you involved in any sports on campus, and are there any memorable or mischievous moments that you’d like to share?

Yes, I was part of the Ultimate Frisbee team. Playing Frisbee taught me valuable lessons -teamwork, resilience, and handling pressure. There was also some good-natured mischief along the way. Once, a group of us started chatting with one of our friends, pretending to be a girl who admired him, using a fake number. We kept up the act for two days, convincing him she liked him, and the poor guy genuinely believed it! We all laughed at the end, and thankfully, he found it funny too. These moments added to the fun and spirit of campus life, leaving us with memories we’ll cherish forever.

Reflecting on your career, is there any particular project or role that stands out as the most fulfilling or challenging?

One defining role was my time as a Chief Minister’s Fellow in Madhya Pradesh. Working directly with the government to pitch and execute projects was incredibly fulfilling, as it allowed me to see the impact of my work firsthand. One of the most challenging projects involved improving accessibility to digital services, which had a tangible impact on citizens’ lives. This experience pushed me to adapt quickly, understand policy intricacies, and deliver meaningful results. It was both humbling and inspiring to see how these efforts translated into real change for the community.

You’ve also served as a facilitator at a government school in Bangalore. What motivated you, and is there a moment from that experience that stands out?

I’ve always believed in giving back to the community, and the need for resources at the school was evident. I organized a donation drive through my network, and it was heartwarming to see how much it meant to the students. One memorable moment was seeing their excitement as they received new supplies. Their gratitude reaffirmed my commitment to supporting education and reminded me of the importance of uplifting others whenever possible.

How would you describe venture capital’s role in India’s economic growth, and how does it contribute to innovation?

Venture capital plays a crucial role in fueling economic growth by supporting startups that innovate and often disrupt existing markets. At Fireside Ventures, we focus on ideas with high growth potential, particularly within the consumer sector. India’s consumer and digital markets are booming, and venture capital provides the essential funding and guidance that startups need to expand. By backing entrepreneurs, venture capital not only drives business growth but also fosters innovation generates employment, and significantly contributes to the country’s economy.

As a Senior Associate at Fireside Ventures, what factors do you consider when evaluating startups, and how do you approach diversification in investments?

When evaluating startups, we consider the founder’s vision, market demand, and the product’s uniqueness. At Fireside, we often focus on consumer brands with strong growth potential. For new investors, I’d recommend assessing an entrepreneur's adaptability and resilience, as these qualities are vital for navigating challenges. Additionally, market validation is essential, as real demand for a product can determine its success. Diversifying investments is also crucial, and we strive to balance exposure across various sectors. Looking forward, I see promise in areas like consumer technology, green energy, and healthcare, especially given their growth trajectory in India.