Kabaddi Adda: A Success Story from Shark Tank India
Kabaddi Adda, a mobile application dedicated to the fast-paced sport of kabaddi, has had a remarkable journey, from its inception by a passionate team to its appearance on Shark Tank India Season 1 and its subsequent acquisition by a major player in the Indian sports industry.
A Passion Project Ignites
Founded in 2019 in Bangalore, India, Kabaddi Adda was the brainchild of Arvind Sivdas, Dhanya Parameshwarant, Suhail Chandhok, and Vikas Gautam. Recognizing the lack of a dedicated online platform for kabaddi enthusiasts, they set out to bridge the gap. Their vision was to create a one-stop shop for all things kabaddi, offering users sports news, live scores, in-depth content, and a user-friendly interface.
Seeking Investment and Amplification on Shark Tank
Determined to propel Kabaddi Adda to greater heights, the team entered the Shark Tank India arena in 2020. Their pitch focused on the growing popularity of kabaddi and their app's ability to cater to a dedicated and passionate audience. However, their initial ask of ₹80 lakhs for a mere 1% equity stake, valuing the company at a significant ₹80 crore (approximately $10.6 million at the time), raised eyebrows among the Sharks.
Negotiation and a Strategic Partnership
While impressed by their passion, the Sharks questioned the high valuation and the app's ability to generate substantial revenue in a niche market. Nevertheless, Namita Thapar of Emcure Pharma and Vineeta Singh of SUGAR Cosmetics saw potential in Kabaddi Adda's focus on a specific and loyal fanbase. They offered the requested ₹80 lakhs for a 6% equity stake, recognizing the value of mentorship and access to a wider network.
Post-Shark Tank Growth and Acquisition
Following their Shark Tank India appearance, Kabaddi Adda secured additional funding and expanded its operations. While specific financial details are limited, it's evident that the company's growth trajectory was positively influenced by the investment and exposure from the show.
The most significant development for Kabaddi Adda came in March 2023 when they were acquired by Sportzcraazy, a leading Indian sports e-commerce platform. This acquisition provided Kabaddi Adda with several advantages, including increased resources, expanded reach, and industry expertise.
Conclusion: A Success Story of Passion and Strategic Moves
Kabaddi Adda's journey from a startup to a thriving enterprise is a testament to the power of passion and strategic decision-making. Their appearance on Shark Tank India not only secured funding but also provided valuable exposure and connections within the sports industry. While their independent journey ended through acquisition, their vision for providing a dedicated online platform for kabaddi enthusiasts lives on through Sportzcraazy. Kabaddi Adda's success serves as an inspiration for other niche sports ventures, demonstrating the potential for growth when passion meets strategic planning.
