Shark Tank India 5: Aman Gupta's Sharp Dig at Anupam Mittal Over 5 Million-User Database
The ongoing rivalry between Aman Gupta and Anupam Mittal on Shark Tank India Season 5 has taken a new turn, with Gupta delivering a biting remark about Mittal's professional assets. During a recent episode featuring the pitch for Twin, an AI-powered fashion app, the tension between the two sharks reached a peak, highlighting their competitive dynamic in the entrepreneurial arena.
Intensifying Rivalry on Shark Tank India
From the outset of this season, Gupta and Mittal have been at odds, frequently exchanging barbs about each other's industry standing and accomplishments. This clash has become a recurring theme, adding drama to the show's investment negotiations. In the latest incident, their disagreement centered on the value of Mittal's extensive user database, which he touted as a key advantage.
The Twin Pitch: An AI Fashion Innovation
Twin is an innovative application that leverages artificial intelligence to allow users to create virtual avatars and digitally try on outfits from their existing wardrobe. Founded by Aseem Khanduja, a Gurugram-based entrepreneur and IIT Delhi alumnus, the startup was launched in June 2025 under Unstudio, another venture Khanduja established in 2023. With eight years of experience in the AI sector, Khanduja shared his entrepreneurial journey, including a previous startup, Strive, which had Mittal as an investor before Khanduja exited due to vision differences.
On the show, Khanduja sought an investment of Rs 60 lakh for 1% equity, valuing Twin at Rs 60 crore. The pitch impressed Gupta, who praised the app as "damn neat" and "outstanding," while other sharks like Kunal Bahl expressed reservations about the business model, suggesting it might be more of a feature than a sustainable venture.
Investment Offers and Negotiation Tensions
As negotiations progressed, Gupta made the first offer: Rs 60 lakh for 3% equity. Mittal countered with Rs 68 lakh for 2%, emphasizing his understanding of the space and ability to assist. Kanika Tekriwal joined with a similar offer, citing her personal interest in the product. The founder then proposed lowering the valuation to Rs 40 crore, prompting Mittal to revise his offer to Rs 80 lakh for 2%, which Gupta and Tekriwal matched.
During this intense back-and-forth, Mittal highlighted his database of over 5 million users as a significant resource. In response, Gupta taunted him, saying, "Shaadi ka database thodi chahiye hai, lehenge thodi bikenge iss par" (No one needs a database for weddings, bridal outfits won't be sold on the app). This remark underscored Gupta's skepticism about the relevance of Mittal's user base for the fashion-focused Twin app.
Outcome and Aftermath
Ultimately, Khanduja chose Gupta's offer, expressing excitement but acknowledging Mittal's potential support regardless. A disappointed Mittal questioned how he could help without a deal, adding to the episode's dramatic conclusion. This incident not only showcases the personal rivalry between the sharks but also raises questions about the strategic value of user databases in niche markets.
The clash between Gupta and Mittal continues to be a highlight of Shark Tank India Season 5, reflecting broader themes of competition and investment strategy in India's startup ecosystem. As the season unfolds, viewers can expect more such confrontations, blending entertainment with insights into business dynamics.
