Startup Mahakumbh is Over but the Startup Vibe isn't: Sanjeev Bhikchandani

As the curtains fall on the Startup Mahakumbh 2.0, what remains is not just the memory of a grand event but the growing sense that India's startup ecosystem is transforming into a national movement. Sanjeev Bikhchandani, founder of Info Edge and a key member of the organising committee, shared his insights with TICE in an exclusive interview.

A Festival of Innovation and Energy

Speaking from the venue on the final day, Bikhchandani described the vibe as “fabulous,” noting the massive turnout that may have surpassed the ambitious target of 100,000 visitors.

“When you get 3,000 founders exhibiting, 10,000 more visiting, 1,000 investors on ground, and a total footfall of around a lakh people – some magic is bound to happen,” he said.

Startup India as a National Movement

Having witnessed the Indian startup ecosystem evolve over the years, Bikhchandani sees the rise of startups as more than a trend—it’s a movement.

“More than the event itself, the fact that over 1.6 lakh startups are registered with DPIIT and possibly another 5 lakh are unregistered shows that Startup India has become a national movement. Even if 10% succeed, we’re talking about 50,000 transformative ventures,” he highlighted.

Recalling Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s speech on Day 1, which laid ambitious goals for the next edition, Bikhchandani emphasized that the vision for the next Mahakumbh is a collective one.

“This is not just an Info Edge project; it belongs to everyone—organising committee or not. With 100 sponsors and 3,000 exhibitors this year, we now aim for 10,000 exhibitors and 300 sponsors next year,” he said.

AI and Scale: The Emerging Trends

Commenting on the technological trends witnessed at the event, Bikhchandani pointed out the omnipresence of AI and the overwhelming scale of entrepreneurial energy.

“AI is going everywhere, and for the foreseeable future, it is the future. But what stands out most is the sheer number of people who are now taking the startup route,” he noted.

Role of Startups in Bharat 2047

As India looks ahead to its centenary of independence, the role of startups becomes critical in equitable economic growth. Bikhchandani believes that it’s not just about becoming the largest economy.

“The benefits of growth must reach the poor, people in backward areas and underserved states. That’s the true goal for 2047,” he remarked.

Going Global: Beyond Borders

Amid global geopolitical challenges like U.S. tariffs, Bikhchandani encourages Indian startups to think beyond traditional markets.

“Global doesn’t just mean the U.S. It includes Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia. The world is vast, and opportunities are everywhere,” he added.

What More Needs to Be Done?

While scaling events like Startup Mahakumbh is important, Bikhchandani stressed that real support must come in the form of mentorship and funding.

“Especially for underserved segments, providing mentoring and funding can go a long way. The energy and ambition are already there,” he said.

Reflecting on the event, Bikhchandani shared his three key learnings. “One, this is a massive initiative. Two, a few hundred committed volunteers made this possible. And three, when a capable and determined team comes together, anything can be achieved.”