In a compelling discussion at the  World Summit, entrepreneur and investor Kunal Bahl called for a shift in focus from 'unicorns' to 'Indicorns'—sustainable Indian businesses built on real revenues and profits. He criticized the obsession with unicorns, a term originating from the U.S. venture capital landscape, arguing that India should celebrate businesses that prioritize longevity and profitability.

Bahl highlighted the transformative growth of India's internet users, which has surged from 100 million to over a billion, allowing startups to achieve profitability within two to three years of operation. He proposed that rather than striving for hundreds of unicorns, India would benefit more from nurturing around 10,000 Indicorns, creating a robust foundation for the startup ecosystem.

Reflecting on the evolution of startups in India, Bahl credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for legitimizing the sector through initiatives like 'Startup India,' which reshaped public perception and encouraged young entrepreneurs to pursue innovative ventures without fear of failure.

Bahl also paid tribute to Ratan Tata, the late Tata Group chairman, sharing a personal anecdote that exemplified Tata's humility and enduring impact on the entrepreneurial community. Tata's ability to remember a promise made years earlier underscored his commitment to mentorship and support for aspiring business leaders.

With a focus on creating lasting businesses, Bahl's vision for the Indian startup landscape emphasizes the need for companies that prioritize sustainable growth over ephemeral valuations.