Startup Weekend, Leadership Chats & Class Dinner for the UG Class of 2029

On April 26th and 27th, Masters’ Union campus transformed into a hub of creativity, collaboration, and community as we hosted the Startup Weekend for the shortlisted students of the UG Class of 2029. From brainstorming business ideas to meeting industry leaders and bonding with future classmates, the two-day event was packed with learning, inspiration, and connection.

Laying the Groundwork for Innovative Ideas

The weekend kicked off with a spirit of discovery. Shortlisted students participated in interactive activities and ideation workshops, mentored by the UG Class of 2027. The goal: come up with a business idea, build a team, and take the first steps toward bringing it to life.

The day featured a powerful Leadership Chat with Sameer Manglani, the third-generation entrepreneur behind Meena Bazaar. He took students through the brand’s incredible journey - from a small shop in Chandni Chowk to a pan-India name in ethnic Indian women’s wear. Sameer shared how Meena Bazaar was one of the early adopters of digital transformation, how to approach performance-driven marketing, and navigating COVID through lean operations and digital-first thinking. He also broke down what it takes to build a great sales team - one based on trust, training, and strong cultural values.

The evening closed with an engaging Fireside Chat featuring Revant Himatsingka (FoodPharmer) and Swati Ganeti, who shared their experiences around building brands, staying true to one’s mission, and growing in the face of uncertainty. Their stories sparked thoughtful questions and left students energized for what lay ahead.

Shaping Concepts into Investor-Worthy Pitches

Day two was all about execution. Students worked in teams to develop their pitch decks, refine their business ideas, and present them to a panel of guest investors and startup experts. The variety and depth of ideas on display - from sustainable fashion to AI-backed platforms - spoke volumes about the creativity and potential of the UG Class of 2029.

Midway through the day, students were treated to another insightful Leadership Chat with Raj Vikram Gupta, Co-founder of BeastLife. Raj walked the students through his unconventional journey - from managing college events to key roles at Mamaearth, Dr. Morepen, and mCaffeine, and eventually co-founding his own wellness brand. With 10 years of marketplace experience, Raj emphasized that “we pitch ourselves every day - whether it's ideas, products, or even our personality.” He demystified the product development journey and spotlighted innovations like BeastLife’s roti-protein mixer, crafted specifically for gym-goers and the male fitness audience. His session gave students a grounded, tactical look at building a consumer-first D2C brand.

While students crafted and pitched their ideas, parents engaged with the MU leadership, explored the campus and hostel facilities, and got a closer look at the ecosystem that will soon become home to their children.

The Class Dinner: New Beginnings and Lasting Connections

The weekend wrapped up with a celebratory Class Dinner. With conversations from the founder, Pratham Mittal, and UG Programme Director Swati Ganeti, and current students, the evening offered insights into the student experience and campus life. The evening transitioned into a warm, informal dinner where students, parents, and faculty shared conversations, exchanged stories, and began forming meaningful connections that will shape the journey ahead.