Jonty Rhodes, widely considered as one of cricket’s best fielders, is set to make his first business presentation on Indian television through Ideabaaz, India’s first media-integrated startup reality show “Bharat ka apna startup manch,” which connects entrepreneurs and investors.
Jonty appeared in a never-before-seen avatar alongside UpUrFit co-founders Munish Vig and Vikram Gunjal to pitch their company to the Titans, the show’s investment panel, for cash and mentorship.
Ideabaaz, founded by Jeet Wagh and Sagoon Wagh, intends to democratise access to capital for businesses across India, particularly in tier II and III towns. The show connects entrepreneurship with entertainment by blending real-life company tales with an entertaining television experience, giving viewers a front-row seat to the high-risk world of startup fundraising.
Munish and Vikram co-founded UpUrFit, a rapidly growing sports wellness company that serves India’s burgeoning community of fitness and sports lovers. Jonty Rhodes endorses the brand, which focusses on performance, recuperation, and hygiene products manufactured with pure ingredients and proven efficacy. Since its inception in 2023, UpUrFit has established itself as a disruptor in India’s USD 40 billion sports wellness sector by developing solutions that make professional-grade recuperation available to everyday athletes.
The brand is presently raising USD 0.5 million, with 50% already subscribed. The latest round comprises the IIM Calcutta syndicate, as well as bigger investors and industry veterans. As of October, sales had an ARR of Rs 40 million, with a 50% quarter-on-quarter growth rate.
Speaking about his experience, Jonty Rhodes said, “Pitching on Ideabaaz was a whole new ballgame for me. Usually, I’m the one diving for catches, not catching investors’ attention. It was exciting to share UpUrFit’s vision on a platform that celebrates innovation and passion. As an athlete and entrepreneur, I’ve always believed in fitness that’s real and relatable, and that’s exactly what UpUrFit stands for.”
True to style, Jonty couldn’t resist demonstrating some of his famed fielding talents on stage, much to the pleasure of both the Titans and the crowd. The presentation was a combination of business, humour, and fantastic energy, as the trio discussed a passion for wellness and sports on the Ideabaaz stage.
Watch the entire Ideabaaz show with Jonty Rhodes and the creators of UpUrFit on Zee TV and Zee5 on 8 November at 6:30 and 11 PM.
