BS Insider: Pallav Purohit - Dynamic Force Behind Bombay Softwares

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

I’ve always been a consistent performer, not a specialist, but a jack of all trades. This mindset, along with adaptability and a drive to improve, has shaped my journey.

I received the Governor's Award (Rajasthan) for Scouts & Guides and scholarships from State Bank of India and Vatel, France. While pursuing Hospitality at IHM Ahmedabad, I had the opportunity to work at:

• Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2009 under Mr. Narendra Modi,
• Indian Premier League (IPL) 2009, and
• Commonwealth Games 2010.

After graduation, I managed a catering venture at IIM Ahmedabad, increasing revenue 5x in a year. I then spent 5 years in consultancy roles at TCS and Capgemini, working with Oil & Gas clients in India and Australia. My process innovations earned multiple awards and a recommendation from Bharat Petroleum’s Director of Finance.

In 2015, I founded Campusby, an edtech platform, and pursued a Post Graduate Program in Business Analytics from Great Lakes and Illinois Tech, USA. This fusion of tech and domain knowledge led to the birth of Bombay Softwares in 2018. Our first AI project blended my hospitality and tech experience and we’ve since grown into a company known for R&D-driven solutions, including patent-supporting innovations.

As a founder, I’m committed to continuous evolution for our people, our clients, and our work. The journey has been challenging but rewarding, and I’m grateful to the mentors and team who help us grow every day.

What inspired you to establish Bombay Softwares?

Coming from a small town, I’ve worked across district, state, national, and international levels. I noticed a big gap in how students from smaller towns were being left out due to lack of visibility and access.

This led to the idea of CAMPUSBY, an edtech platform connecting students from across India with career opportunities - removing geographical boundaries. Once CAMPUSBY gained traction, we launched Bombay Softwares to use our tech capabilities to help other businesses grow.

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

Seeing the team grow - professionally and personally - is the most rewarding part. We strongly believe that everyone deserves the right start to their career, and that belief shapes our decisions and company culture. We grow together, like a family.

How do you see Bombay Softwares impacting the software industry?

We’ve worked with many clients who’ve had poor experiences with tech partners. Our approach is different, we align our success with our clients’ growth. This creates trust, long-term relationships, and a shared journey. We treat our clients' money as our own and ensure it's spent wisely.

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

I take great pride in projects that are first-of-their-kind. Whether it’s Merlin, a fitness app powered by AI, or Argot, an AI-based language learning app, we build to make a difference. But CAMPUSBY holds a special place, it empowers students from remote areas to shape their futures.

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

Innovation and collaboration are built into our DNA. Every team member’s KRA includes contributing to innovation. We mentor and encourage our people to go beyond the brief and think big. A growing company can only thrive when its employees grow too.

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

I’m passionate about geopolitics, history, and mythology- they offer deep lessons in leadership and decision-making. I also enjoy spending time at the gym and with my pets. These hobbies keep me grounded and mentally sharp.

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

Absolutely, Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a hidden gem within our own borders. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I also recommend going on a trek. It’s a powerful way to discover yourself and build confidence, you truly realize “you can.”