In the latest episode of Shark Tank India Season 5, the Sharks got into a big argument over a local shoe brand called Gully Labs. From a normal business talk, the conversation quickly turned heated with investors literally fighting for a chance to put their money into the company. The founders, Arjun Singh and Animesh Mishra, didn’t just come to talk about money; they brought dancers with them to show that their handmade sneakers are perfect for both modern street style and traditional Indian dance. The Sharks were clearly impressed, especially since some of them actually remembered the founders from their very early days starting out.
A brand built on a gut feeling
Arjun shared his story of leaving a high-paying job at JP Morgan in Australia to move back to India in 2022. He felt that India had so many amazing stories and designs that big brands were just ignoring. Instead of a fancy business plan, he and Animesh started Gully Labs based on a simple “feeling.” What began as just an Instagram page with two workers has now grown into a huge team of 100 craftsmen making shoes in their Noida workshop.
Aman Gupta from boAt and Kunal Bahl both recalled meeting the duo years ago. Aman was quick to praise their vision and their cool new store in New Delhi, while Kunal was happy to see how well they had pulled off the ideas they once pitched to him.
The Sharks battle it out
When it was time to talk about money, things got tense. The founders asked for Rs 1 crore in exchange for 0.5 per cent of the company, valuing the business at a massive Rs 200 crore. Most of the Sharks thought the price was way too high and offered Rs 1 crore for 1 per cent instead.
Kunal Bahl then suggested that all the Sharks should team up and invest together. But Aman Gupta wasn’t in the mood to share. He stepped in and told Kunal, “Wait a second. Please don’t make decisions for me. I’m not joining you guys. I’m fine on my own.” It was a bold move that showed he really wanted to be the one to lead the brand’s future.
Closing the deal
After a lot of arguing back and forth, Aman finally made an offer the founders couldn’t turn down: Rs 1 crore for 0.57 per cent equity. This valued Gully Labs at Rs 175 crore. The founders happily said yes, and the room broke out in cheers. Aman even celebrated by putting on a pair of Gully Labs sneakers right there on the set. While the other Sharks missed out, they all congratulated the team on finding a partner who truly believes in their “made in India” dream.
