Pepperfry, the popular online furniture store, has been left in shock and mourning with the untimely demise of its co-founder, Ambareesh Murty. The 51-year-old entrepreneur passed away due to a sudden cardiac arrest in Leh. The news was conveyed by another co-founder of the venture, Ashish Shah, in a heart-wrenching tweet.
Shah’s tweet read, “Extremely devastated to inform that my friend, mentor, brother, soulmate @AmbareeshMurty is no more. Lost him yesterday night to a cardiac arrest at Leh. Please pray for him and for strength to his family and near ones.”
A Multi-Faceted Entrepreneur
Murty, an angel investor with a rich professional background, had been associated with Pepperfry for 12 years. He was not only a co-founder but also a guiding light for the company. His X profile reflects his multi-dimensional personality – from a self-described closet sociopath to a history enthusiast with a penchant for epic fantasies.
Educational Background and Career
A graduate in Engineering from Delhi College of Engineering, Murty went on to complete his MBA from IIT Calcutta. His professional journey commenced in 1996 at Cadbury, where he held roles in Sales and Marketing. His knack for business then led him to Prudential ICICI AMC, where he served as VP Marketing and Customer Service.
Venturing into Entrepreneurship
After his brief stint at Levi’s, Murty founded his own venture called Origin Resources, aimed at supporting Indian mutual fund companies. This venture, though short-lived, showcased his entrepreneurial spirit. Subsequently, he joined Britannia as a marketing manager before embracing the dynamic world of e-commerce.
Founding Pepperfry
In 2011, Murty, alongside Ashish Shah, initiated Pepperfry – an online platform dedicated to selling home furniture and related products. The venture garnered substantial attention, attracting investors like Norwest Venture Partners, Pidilite Ventures, and Goldman Sachs Investments Partners, among others.
A Legacy in the Online Marketplace
Pepperfry’s journey was a reflection of Murty’s dedication and leadership. The startup, valued at around $460 million, established itself as a formidable player in the online furniture market. Its innovative approach and product offerings put it in direct competition with brands like Home Centre, Urban Ladder, and Wakefit.
The passing of Ambareesh Murty leaves a void not only in Pepperfry but also in the entrepreneurial landscape of India. His contributions and legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire the startup community and beyond.
