Shashank joined Accel in 2025 and focuses on defence tech investments. His background spans institutional finance and early-stage venture capital, including roles at Carpediem Capital, IndusInd Bank, and most recently at Gemba Capital backing consumer and AI companies. He spent his formative years in Bombay and graduated from BITS.
Get to know Shashank
What's your all time favorite move, TV show or book?
"What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence" - the autobiography of Stephen Schwarzman. He built Blackstone from notes on a piece of paper to the world's leading global financial institution- the epitome of audaciously ambitious in my head. He spent his life learning and reflecting on what it takes to achieve excellence, make an impact, and live a life of consequence. Few books reveal how relentlessly resourceful folks actually do what they do - this is the one that truly rewired my worldview on ambition.
Who most inspires you?
Kobe Bryant. In 2013, his Achilles tendon ruptured during a game. He got up, walked to the free throw line unassisted, made both shots, then walked off the court. No grimace, no drama. Just discipline. That's what inspires me - not just the mamba mentality, but the living proof of it. The composure to finish what you start when your body is breaking down. I go back to that clip when I need a push. It's the best reminder that getting 1% better compounds, but only if you show up when it's hard.
What's the most impactful piece of advice you've received?
" हार नहीं मानूंगा, रार नहीं ठानूंगा काल के कपाल पर लिखता मिटाता हूं गीत नया गाता हूं गीत नया गाता हूं " [English translation - I refuse defeat, refuse to be drawn into meaningless wars. On destiny's forehead I write my fate, then erase and write again. I sing a new song. I sing a new song.] This is from India's ex-PM and Bharat Ratna recipient Atal Bihari Vajpayee's poem - "Geet Naya Gaata Hoon". What resonates is the balance - persistence without stubbornness, resilience without bitterness. It keeps me moving forward regardless of outcome. A constant symbol to not dwell on losses, not get distracted by fights that don't matter - to simply focus on what's next.