Harsh Jain shares why India’s cultural DNA gives startups winning edge

Harsh Jain, Dream11 CEO, speaking at the Oxford India Forum, highlighted the unique advantages of starting a business in India. He explained that India’s cultural DNA and specific challenges require entrepreneurs to be more agile and innovative.

“The unfortunate truth is that India has a very specific DNA and culture that requires you to be much more agile and understand the hurdles and the imperfect balance that we have, and that is your biggest competitive advantage,” Jain said.

He highlighted that while advanced economies like the UK and the US have fewer problems to solve, India’s limitless opportunities make it an ideal place for startups.

Jain advised aspiring entrepreneurs to chase problems they care deeply about and be ready to commit at least five years to see if their ideas work. He warned that small markets are unforgiving and stressed the importance of targeting large markets to ensure success.