BS Insider: Pallav Purohit - Dynamic Force Behind Bombay Softwares

Can you introduce yourself and briefly share your journey as the founder of Bombay Softwares?

My journey has been defined by adaptability, a passion for learning, and a drive to excel across diverse fields.

I’ve never been just a specialist rather, I strive to be a well-rounded performer. This approach led me to receive the Governor's Award in Rajasthan for Scouts & Guides, as well as scholarships from State Bank of India and Vatel, France.

During my studies at IHM Ahmedabad, I gained valuable experience working at major events including the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2009, the Indian Premier League 2009, and the Commonwealth Games 2010.

After graduation, I managed a catering venture at IIM Ahmedabad and took the business to five times its original revenue within a year.

My subsequent consulting roles with TCS and Capgemini, working with leading Oil & Gas clients in India and Australia, were notable for process innovation recognised by awards and a commendation from Bharat Petroleum’s Director of Finance.

In 2015, I founded CAMPUSBY, an ed-tech platform, and pursued advanced studies in business analytics with Great Lakes and Illinois Tech, USA. This unique combination of business and tech knowledge paved the way for Bombay Softwares, launched in 2018.

Our early AI projects bridged my hospitality background with technology, and today, Bombay Softwares is recognised for its R&D-driven solutions and patent-focused innovations.

My commitment as a founder remains to foster continuous evolutionfor our team, our clients, and our work supported by inspiring mentors and an exceptional team.

What inspired you to establish Bombay Softwares?

My journey from a small town exposed me to the challenges faced by students with limited visibility and access to opportunities.

That observation inspired CAMPUSBY - a platform designed to break down geographic barriers and connect talented students across India with meaningful career paths.

With CAMPUSBY’s traction, I saw the chance to empower other businesses, leading to the creation of Bombay Softwares. Our mission has always been to use technology as a catalyst for growth and broader impact.

As the leader of the BS team, what's the most rewarding aspect of your role?

What gives me the greatest satisfaction is witnessing the professional and personal growth of our team members.

We believe every individual deserves a strong start to their career and that philosophy is at the heart of our company culture. Together, we flourish more as a family than simply colleagues.

How do you see Bombay Softwares impacting the software industry?

Our commitment is to align our success directly with that of our clients. Many businesses have had unsatisfactory experiences with technology partners; we focus on building trust through shared objectives and long-term relationships.

By treating every client’s investment as if it were our own, we ensure resources are utilised wisely, leading to genuine growth and lasting partnerships.

Is there a project or achievement you take immense pride in as the founder, and what makes it special?

I take immense pride in pioneering projects - whether it’s Merlin, an AI-powered fitness app, or Argot, our language learning platform leveraging artificial intelligence. Each project is intended to make a tangible difference.

CAMPUSBY holds particular importance for me because it truly empowers students from remote regions to shape their own futures.

Tell us about the team and culture at Bombay Softwares, and how you foster innovation and collaboration.

Innovation and collaboration are fundamental to our ethos. Every team member is actively encouraged to contribute innovative ideas as part of their core responsibilities.

We prioritise mentorship and inspire everyone to think beyond expectations. Our philosophy is simple: as our people grow, so does the company.

Beyond leading Bombay Softwares, how do you spend your time, and what hobbies contribute to your leadership approach?

I have a deep interest in geopolitics, history, and mythology, which offer timeless lessons on leadership and strategy.

My hobbies also include regular gym sessions and spending quality time with my pets, both of which help me stay grounded and mentally agile.

Is there a place/city that you would recommend to visit?

Definitely, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are an incredible hidden gem within India and promise an unforgettable experience. I also truly recommend trekking for personal growth; it’s a journey that builds confidence and self-discovery, helping you realise your true potential.