Paytm's Vijay Shekhar Sharma's pertinent question: 'Vulture capital' or 'adventure capital'?

Trust Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma to turn the tables. Sharma, who was being interviewed by India Quotient founder Anand Lunia at an event recently, took over as host, asking questions to Lunia instead.

“Would you describe venture capital in India as ‘vulture capital’ or ‘adventure capital’?” Sharma asked, the former being a lighthearted reference to VCs, who deprive entrepreneurs of control over their companies or take advantage of situations. After the laughter in the audience died down, Lunia answered, “It is vulture. But why accuse big money of eating into small money? It doesn’t matter if the money comes from. It’s capitalism. That’s why it’s a vulture capital.”

Sharma, however, was not done. “Then when will we get adventure capital? The entrepreneur dream?” Continuing in his trademark Delhi style, Sharma added, “Hum toh apni zindagi lagane ko baithe hai, koi paisa toh laga de [We entrepreneurs are ready to put our lives on the line, if only someone would give us funds].”

Lunia, however, almost coaxingly, said, “Let’s stick to the script, Vijay. I’ve spent so much time discussing this with you.” Guess the rest of the conversation took place backstage.