New Delhi: The Lions’ Den, a high-stakes business reality show that brings together innovation, investment, and inspiration, will premiere on June 14 on DD National, WAVES OTT, and Jiostar. Conceptualised as a public movement towards economic self-reliance, the show captures the essence of AtmaNirbhar Bharat by offering Indian startups a nationwide stage to pitch their ideas and secure real-time funding.
The 13-episode series, co-produced by Zeno Films and Offbeet Studios, features entrepreneurs presenting their ventures to a panel of five industry titans—referred to as the ‘Lions’—who decide on the spot whether to invest. Each 44-minute episode offers viewers not just business drama, but also a glimpse into India’s emerging startup ecosystem. Supporting the Lions are four Super Angels who focus on mid-tier ventures, along with a panel of domain experts who offer strategic insight. Together, they create a dynamic space where ambition is tested, and innovation rewarded.
In a joint statement, the Lions described the show as more than just a television format. “We’re not just creating a television show—we’re building a movement to democratize startup funding in India. The Lions’ Den is where dreams meet discipline and ideas meet investors in full public view.”
The Lions themselves are stalwarts of Indian industry: Dipak Sanghavi, MD & CEO of Nilon’s with a ₹500 crore net worth; Vinita Surana, Executive Director of Surana Group, representing a legacy of ₹2000+ crore in infrastructure and energy; Gaurav VK Singhvi, Managing Partner of a Surat-based VC fund with a ₹1500 crore portfolio; and Dr. Poonam Gupta, OBE, global entrepreneur and CEO of PG Papers UK, who brings with her a net worth exceeding ₹1000 crore. Each of them brings not just capital, but decades of experience and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of business leaders.
What makes The Lions’ Den even more significant is its reach. By partnering with Prasar Bharati, the show is set to air on DD National—India’s most widely accessible public broadcaster—along with WAVES OTT, ensuring that millions of Indians across geographies and socio-economic strata can tune in. A spokesperson for Prasar Bharati noted, “We are proud to bring The Lions’ Den to millions of Indian homes. This series reflects our mission to inform, inspire, and empower, celebrating India’s entrepreneurial energy and commitment to self-reliance.”
The story behind the show is as compelling as the pitches it will feature. Its creator, entrepreneur Savan Sanandiya, was inspired to launch the series after facing a broken promise on another reality show, where an investor backed out post-pitch. Rather than be discouraged, Savan—along with his brother Hiren—chose to turn that setback into a mission. They founded Zeno Films and set out to create a show grounded in trust, transparency, and real opportunity. In collaboration with Offbeet Studios, known for their bold, purpose-driven storytelling, the team has delivered a format that prioritizes credibility over spectacle.
“This is not just entertainment—it’s economic storytelling with purpose,” said Offbeet Media Group in a statement. With The Lions’ Den, India’s startup journey finds a new voice—one that’s loud, transparent, and built for the future.
The show premieres June 14, 2025, and will air weekly across DD National, WAVES OTT, and Jiostar.
