Throughout the early years of my career, I longed for freedom—both financial freedom and the ability to control how I spent my time. This was something I couldn’t achieve while working for others. When I eventually took the leap into entrepreneurship, I was determined to create that same freedom for my employees and stakeholders.
Today, seeing Hearty Mart empower rural youth—many of whom didn’t have the opportunity to receive a good education or complete their studies—brings me immense satisfaction. These individuals, who once had no option but to work as daily wage laborers in the industrial estate near their village, now hold key managerial positions at Hearty Mart and are successfully running the show.
This transformation is, for me, the most rewarding aspect of my business. It’s a constant source of motivation to keep pushing forward and striving for even greater impact.
Today, seeing Hearty Mart empower rural youth—many of whom didn’t have the opportunity to receive a good education or complete their studies—brings me immense satisfaction. These individuals, who once had no option but to work as daily wage laborers in the industrial estate near their village, now hold key managerial positions at Hearty Mart and are successfully running the show.
This transformation is, for me, the most rewarding aspect of my business. It’s a constant source of motivation to keep pushing forward and striving for even greater impact.
The eChai Effect - In Their Words
"eChai isn’t just a startup community … it’s a mindset . eChai has been one of the most impactful communities in my entrepreneurial journey. It’s been a turning point . In a world where building something can often feel isolating, eChai gave me a sense of belonging. I’ve found mentors, collaborators, and friends here — people who genuinely want to see you succeed. It’s a space where ideas are challenged, actions are celebrated, and founders grow not just in scale, but in clarity and confidence. From late-night ideas to early-morning pitches, this community has quietly but powerfully shaped the way I build, think, and dream. I’ll always be grateful for the way eChai creates spaces where founders don’t just grow businesses — they grow together."
Koumal Kalantry
Founder, Bignano Ventures
"I have evolved from role of Community Builder to Startup Consultant to Startup Ecosystem Enabler to Angel Investor and now launching a Venture Studio and eChai has been a catalyst in my overall journey as Startup Evangelist since 13 years."
Mehul Shah
Co-Founder at Counselvise & Ivy Growth
“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 Partner Brands
eChai Ventures partners with select brands as their growth partner - working together to explore new ideas, open doors, and build momentum across the startup ecosystem.
