Pepperfry CEO Ambareesh Murty Dies Due to Cardiac Arrest
Pepperfry’s CEO Ambareesh Murty’s Visionary Journey and Contributions
In a tragic turn of events, Ambareesh Murty, the dynamic CEO of renowned online furniture retailer Pepperfry, breathed his last on August 8, 2023, succumbing to a sudden cardiac arrest. Aged 42, Murty’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the business world.

Born in Bangalore in 1981, Murty’s academic journey led him to the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, where he pursued engineering. Subsequently, his professional path intertwined with McKinsey & Company before he co-founded Pepperfry in 2010, alongside Ashish Shah.
Pioneering Pepperfry’s Growth and Legacy
Pepperfry swiftly ascended to become a frontrunner among online furniture retailers in India. Notably, Murty was acclaimed for steering the company from a startup to a unicorn within a remarkably short span. His prowess extended beyond business strategy, encompassing innovative marketing campaigns and a steadfast commitment to elevating customer experiences.
A Grief-Stricken Indian Startup Ecosystem
The passing of Murty leaves an indelible void within the Indian startup realm. A luminary with far-reaching influence on the e-commerce sector, his departure reverberates profoundly. His legacy endures through his unwavering passion, determination, and his instrumental role in propelling Pepperfry to triumph.
Survived by his wife, two daughters, and parents, Murty’s private funeral transpired on August 9, 2023. Pepperfry conveyed its grief, stating, “We mourn the loss of Ambareesh Murty, our co-founder and CEO. His visionary leadership shaped Pepperfry into a premier online furniture retailer in India. His absence is deeply felt, and his memory cherished.”
A New Chapter: Ashish Shah Assumes CEO Role
In the wake of this tragedy, Pepperfry has announced the transition of leadership. Ashish Shah, a fellow co-founder and seasoned industry executive, will take the reins as CEO. With over two decades of experience in retail, Shah’s appointment ensures continuity and expertise.
Continuing the Legacy Amidst Loss

While Murty’s departure leaves a void, Pepperfry is poised to navigate this transition with confidence. The company’s faith in Shah’s leadership is well-placed, given his profound understanding of the furniture industry and e-commerce landscape. His commitment to simplifying furniture shopping aligns with Pepperfry’s mission.
Honoring a Visionary
The entire Indian startup ecosystem is united in mourning the loss of Ambareesh Murty. His visionary contributions have indubitably left an indelible mark on the industry. His legacy, defined by fervor, determination, and dedication to Pepperfry’s success, will continue to inspire generations to come.
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