Legal Trouble for J&K Startup After Securing Shark Tank India Deal

A cricket bat manufacturing startup from Jammu and Kashmir, Tramboo Sports, finds itself entangled in legal woes shortly after securing a deal on the reality TV show Shark Tank India Season 3. Lenskart CEO Peyush Bansal and boAt co-founder Aman Gupta invested ₹30 lakh for a four percent equity stake in the startup, leading to a lawsuit filed by the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association of Kashmir (CBMAK).

In the episode that aired on January 30, Tramboo Sports, led by youngsters Hamad Tramboo and Saad Tramboo, successfully secured a deal from the prominent investors. However, the legal proceedings initiated by CBMAK have added a layer of complexity to the startup's journey.

Why is CBMAK suing Tramboo Sports and Sony Pictures Networks? The legal action stems from the allegations made by CBMAK that Tramboo Sports falsely claimed to be the sole manufacturer of Kashmir willow cricket bats. A delegation from the cricket bat manufacturers' body has refuted these claims, asserting that the startup owners misled the public and caused significant harm to the association members' businesses.

We are super happy to have Sharks Peyush Bansal & Aman Gupta to join our team and score bigger with our vision! ????✨

A big thanks to everyone who supported us in our journey! ????????????#SharkTankIndiaSeason3OnSonyLIV#SharkTankIndia #SharkTankIndiaOnSonyLIV pic.twitter.com/GatLHzDqjE — Tramboo Sports (@tramboosports) January 31, 2024

According to members of the association, the misleading claims made by Tramboo Sports not only deceived the public and buyers but also tarnished the image of the indigenous Kashmir willow cricket bat manufacturing industry.

CBMAK has taken decisive action by sending a detailed legal notice to both Sony Pictures Networks and Tramboo Sports. The notice demands an on-air apology within 15 days and seeks compensation amounting to ₹100 crore for the perceived damages, loss, and mental agony suffered by the association.

The outcome of this legal battle will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Tramboo Sports in the aftermath of its Shark Tank India appearance, highlighting the challenges startups may face post-reality show deals.