Sriram Natarajan: Just wrapped up an incredible 2-day trip to Bengaluru, where I

Just wrapped up an incredible 2-day trip to Bengaluru, where I had the pleasure of connecting with some of the most talented engineers, product builders, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts. The energy here is as vibrant and innovative as it is in Silicon Valley!

I had a fantastic session with the engineering team at Nium, where we explored the challenges and opportunities of integrating GenAI features into the FinTech world. The enthusiasm and insightful questions from the audience were truly inspiring. We also delved into how AI is reshaping the software engineering process and how both engineering and product teams can adapt to this ongoing disruption. Thanks to Ramana Satyavarapu, Mahathi Mahabhashyam, Sujoy Das, and the entire Nium team for the opportunity!

Later, I visited Draper Startup House, where we discussed the journey of productionizing GenAI applications and the pitfalls to avoid. A huge thanks to eChai Ventures and Draper Startup House for hosting me. The startup culture in Bengaluru is electric, and it's clear we will be witnessing some amazing AI products emerging from Bengaluru soon! Thanks to Nivin Joseph, Jatin Chaudhary Mansi Baheti for organizing this event.

January 16, 2025 11:23am

The eChai Effect - In Their Words

"At DevX.Work, we’ve greatly benefited from our association with eChai. Their events and networking forums have connected us with high-potential startups, ecosystem leaders, and innovation-driven professionals — many of whom have become valuable partners, collaborators, and even clients. What stands out most is the openness and accessibility of the community — whether you're an early-stage founder or an experienced entrepreneur, eChai provides a welcoming space to learn, collaborate, and grow. It's more than just a network — it's a catalyst for real, collaborative growth. We’re proud to be part of the eChai community. Highly recommended for any organization aiming to grow within the startup space."

Umesh Uttamchandani

Co-Founder, DevX

“When we launched LegalWiz.in back in 2016, concept of procuring legal and compliance services through a digital commerce platform wasn't as prominent in India. eChai played a significant role in providing the early adopters, and building significant positioning in the startup fraternity. Overtime, eChai grew to be a massive network of like-minded entrepreneurs and extended that benefit to all the members in a true "co-rise" spirit. I personally love to attend eChai events, learn from subject matter experts who share relatable and actionable insights and experiences. For startup journeys, it is so important to be surrounded by people who can add relevance, perspective, and push you to do better. Most importantly a group of people where you aren't being judged about things going right or wrong, but be a motivational force that keeps you going, yet keeping you in check. eChai is that place for me!”

Shrijay Sheth

Founder at LegalWiz.in and Hire4Higher Consulting

"eChai has played a truly pivotal role in HummingBird’s journey — even before Day Zero. From ideation to establishment and into growth, it’s been a constant source of support. It connected me with incredible people who’ve become more than just friends. One of the biggest reasons I chose to stay in Ahmedabad is because of the eChai community. It has shaped my growth — both personally and professionally — in ways that are hard to articulate. Honestly, words fall short when I try to express what eChai means to me. I’m deeply thankful and forever grateful to eChai for being such an integral part of my journey."

Harsha Bhurani

Founder, HummingBird Consulting Group

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