In a remarkable episode of Shark Tank India Season 5, Dr Parag Gad from Bengaluru captured the hearts and minds of the sharks. He presented his revolutionary medical device called xStep. This innovation aims to help patients with paralysis and cerebral palsy through non-invasive treatment.
A Seventeen-Year Journey Comes to Fruition
Dr Parag Gad has dedicated seventeen long years to developing this technology. He expressed a strong desire to create this solution in India for the entire world. The doctor relocated to India in 2023 and officially registered his company, Vivatronix, in January 2025.
He began his pitch with a poignant story about a two-year-old girl named Khushi. He described how cerebral palsy affected her developmental milestones, preventing her from moving her head at three months, crawling at nine months, and walking at one year. Dr Gad stated that this is the harsh reality for approximately 25 lakh children across India.
The Revolutionary xStep Device
The xStep device claims to treat conditions like spinal cord injuries and cerebral palsy without any invasive procedures. Dr Gad explained the technical workings and conducted a live demonstration right on the show.
He activated the device on shark Vineeta Singh. Her fingers began moving involuntarily, astonishing the entire panel. A stunned Viraj Bahl asked if the movement was truly involuntary, and both Vineeta and Dr Gad confirmed it was.
Dr Gad elaborated that when used on the spinal cord, the device can stimulate neurons and enable various muscle movements, including walking. He made a bold claim that cerebral palsy patients can see noticeable improvement within just five minutes of using xStep.
Sharks React with Awe and Practical Questions
The sharks were visibly moved. They described the innovation as "magical." Viraj Bahl even said, "God bless you." A proud Dr Parag Gad responded simply, "This is 17 years of science for you."
Namita Thapar, Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, then shifted to practical business concerns. She asked Dr Gad to explain the cost impact in simpler terms. Specifically, she wanted to know which steps in the treatment process his device could eliminate.
Dr Gad provided a compelling answer. He explained that cerebral palsy patients often require Botox injections in every spastic muscle every three to six months. After xStep therapy, he observed that these injections were no longer necessary. This represents a major cost saving for patients and their families.
The Business Proposition and Deal Negotiation
Dr Parag Gad entered the Tank asking for Rs 1 crore in exchange for a 1% equity stake in his company. He revealed that the device currently costs Rs 46,000 to manufacture, but he aims to reduce that cost to between Rs 20,000 and Rs 25,000 with higher production volumes. The unit is sold for Rs 3 lakh.
After an intense round of questioning, the sharks made their moves. Viraj Bahl and Varun Alagh decided to opt out of the deal. However, Namita Thapar, Vineeta Singh, and Kunal Bahl came together with a joint offer.
They proposed Rs 1 crore for a 10% equity share. Dr Gad countered, asking for the same amount for 6% equity. Kunal Bahl offered some seasoned advice. He emphasized that the primary goal should be making the business and product successful. He reasoned that if the company thrives, the difference of four percent in equity would not matter significantly, as Dr Gad would still retain 90% ownership.
A Landmark Deal is Sealed
After considering this perspective, Dr Parag Gad accepted the joint offer from Namita, Vineeta, and Kunal. This agreement sealed one of the most emotionally charged and impactful pitches of Shark Tank India Season 5. The episode showcased not just a business investment, but a profound belief in a technology that could change lives.
