ET Startup Awards 2025: What the jury members said

Here's what they had to say after the deliberations.

Amitabh Kant

The process was insightful, and personally a great learning experience. What stood out was the quality of suggestions from fellow jury members, which elevated the discussions.

Ghazal Alagh, cofounder, Honasa Consumer

It was a learning experience for me... For most categories, even after deliberating pros and cons, it was tough to come up with just one winner.

Kalyan Krishnamurthy, group CEO, Flipkart

The entire process was robust. For jury members, it’s both a learning experience and a window to what’s happening in the country.

Satyan Gajwani, chairman, Times Internet

While the awards track trends that are emerging—one of the recurring themes the jury looks at is companies that can last.

Prashanth Prakash, partner, Accel

The awards remain as important as ever. Founders and companies aspire to be part of it showing its credibility and influence.

Ruchi Kalra, cofounder, OfBusiness

The nominations were not just based on numbers and financials but on what is a sustainable business for the future.”

Sahil Barua, CEO, Delhivery

Choosing the Startup of the Year was difficult. All the nominees were exceptional and had delivered excellent financial results and enormous impact.